(no subject)

[amfiguree]

[Het] [N'sync] [PG-13]

Steal My Heart



(Half an hour later, At the site of the photo shoot)

JC led Naomi onto the open field and smiled grimly as she took in a few breaths of the sweet, fresh air. “Relaxed any?”

Naomi nodded. Justin and JC sat down under a tree and motioned for her to sit between them. She plopped down onto the grass and stared at an ant that was making it’s way slowly across the grass. She picked it up gently and set it down on another patch of grass that was easier to walk on. Stubbornly, the ant turned around and headed back towards the direction it had come from. Naomi smiled. The ant reminded her of herself. There had been too many opportunities that she had let slip by thanks to her willfulness and pride. Well, this time I’m going to do what I should have done a year ago. I’m going to tell Chase about everything that happened. And Justin should know about it too. If they chide me because of this, then we weren’t really friends to begin with.

Naomi drew in a deep, shuddering breath before saying, “Chase, I won’t blame you if you run to the end of the field after you’ve heard what I have to say. And Justin, I won’t blame you if you scream and pull your curls out.”

Justin gulped, “That serious, huh? Okay... shoot.”

JC gripped her hand tightly, encouraging her to go on. Tears came to Naomi’s eyes and she pulled her hand gently away from JC. “Just let me tell you what happened before you decide to hold my hand again... if you ever will anymore.”

JC’s forehead was creased into a frown and he sighed when he saw the fear creep slowly back into her eyes. Only this time, there was confusion and worry mixed with the fear in her eyes as well. “Okay, but promise me this, Naomi.”

“What?”

“That you will respect my decision if I decide that no matter what happens, I will want to hold on to you as someone I love and cherish forever,” JC spoke with such determination that Justin smiled despite the situation and Naomi sniffled.

“I will respect any decision you make... after you hear me out.”

“Fair enough,” Justin said. “Now remember, there’s no rush. Take your time and tell us slowly what happened and why.”

Naomi closed her eyes, a pained look on her face. Memories of the incident flooded her brain and tears spilled down her cheeks. She wiped them away angrily and stood up. She took a few steps away to put some distance between herself and the two people in front of her - the two people she had grown to love and care for.

The mere thought of Marcus made her feel dirty all over. Naomi hugged herself protectively and tried to get the words out of her mouth. But she couldn’t. Her voice was stuck in her throat... just like when she had tried to scream for help. She swallowed painfully and when she opened her eyes, she saw Justin and JC looked at her, with concern in their eyes. They made no move towards her, because they knew she needed her own space. But they were worried about her all the same. And the look on her face did not bring them any relief. In fact, their anxiety was doubled when they saw her wrapping her arms around herself.

They didn’t try to guess what had happened to her, because it would only be insulting her. JC licked his lips and Justin sighed. Naomi just stared at them. The times they had shared together were flashing in her mind. She had only known Justin for two weeks, and she had been reunited with JC for only that short period of time as well, but... during that time, they had shared many happy memories that Naomi knew she would never forget. Even if they did chide her after she told them about Marcus, those memories would live inside of her forever. She didn’t expect them to comfort her with open arms, or look at her like she was a miracle for surviving what she did... on the contrary, she was looking for the disgust she just knew would be there... the same disgust she felt for herself every time Marcus was mentioned.

Naomi took one last deep breath, and thought, well, it’s now or never. “Marcus... he was my boyfriend last year. We... well, I’ve always had a lot of guys after me, but I never liked any of them. I think... I just didn’t feel the need for anyone else in my life. I had my brother, I had Chase and I had Alyssa. And I was contented. I was happy with my life and I was scared of change. I was scared of what would happen if I started a relationship with someone. I didn’t want any change in my life.”

Naomi paused. She wasn’t sure what she wanted to say but the words were just coming from her mouth. She decided to stop thinking and let her heart do all the talking for her. So she closed her eyes and said, “But... when I met Marcus, I was... I was just swept off my feet. He was sweet, caring, romantic and everything I had always dreamed of. I rejected him for a while, because I still wasn’t sure what I wanted. But he was persistent. He would fetch me home after I finished my work at the college, he would send me flowers, he would offer to bring me out on dates... and still I wasn’t sure. It felt wonderful to be with him... and I always enjoyed myself. Alyssa chided me for not going out with him because she thought he would be perfect for me. But I just didn’t have the courage. Not yet.”

JC and Justin looked at Naomi. She was beginning to open up and that was a good sign. They smiled at each other before turning back to Naomi. “But then... on Valentine’s day... he... we went for a picnic at the park. And it was the most incredible day I have ever experienced in my life. And after that... I just... I fell in love with him. Or... at least I thought I did. I liked him, but my feelings for him weren’t all that deep. We dated for a while and then one night... he came over to my house. James went to sleep shortly after Marcus came. He... he... he told me he trusted Marcus.”

Naomi’s eyes filled with tears and this time, she didn’t wipe them away when they trickled slowly down her cheeks. “I trusted Marcus. I trusted him with everything I had. I didn’t only trust him with my life, I trusted him with my heart. But... but that night... well, I don’t know how he did it, but he managed to get me to drink.” She looked up at JC and saw bewilderment in his eyes. She laughed bitterly. “Oh yeah... he was good. I actually drank. And before that you couldn’t even get me to touch the stuff.”

Justin bit his lip and gripped JC’s arm when he saw the pain in Naomi’s eyes. It hurt him to see her that way. But he was glad that she was letting him in on this dark secret... something she had kept to herself for nearly two years. JC was trembling, and Justin understood why. This was a side of Naomi that JC had hardly seen in the past. She was always someone who could forget the bad things and remember the good. She would never bear grudges or hold in her anger or hurt... at least not from him.

“Well... after that, I... the next thing I remember was opening my eyes and seeing him on top of me. We... it was total darkness and when I tried to scream... nothing came out. I fought and struggled against him with all the strength I had left in my body, but my head was pounding, I felt dizzy, and after a while, I just couldn’t fight anymore. And then... then things went out of control. He just kept pressing against me and... and I couldn’t do anything about it. I just... I just couldn’t. I was so scared. I tried screaming but still... still I couldn’t.” Naomi was sobbing by that time. She tried taking calming breaths, but it just wasn’t working.

It’s not fair! She screamed in her head, turning away from JC and Justin. This just isn’t fair! I just felt like everything in my life could be fixed... but then he has to appear again! And now... just as I was going to trust again... just as I thought everything would be okay again... everything is just crumbling down around me and... and I CAN’T DO A DAMN THING ABOUT IT! Why? Why? Why does this have to happen NOW? Why does everything good have to be taken away from me just when I feel loved again?

Naomi shook her head in anger. She was frustrated, she felt hatred bubbling in her and soon she was fighting desperately against the misery boiling up in her. She felt like hitting someone, or at least venting her anger and exasperation in some way. I’ve already started... I might as well finish so they don’t get the wrong idea. It’s not like it’s going to help me out here or anything, but...

“Well... he practically stripped me down to nothing, but James woke up and saved me... just in time. And... well, we pressed charges against him and he landed in jail for eighteen months. He should have been released last month.” Naomi could feel JC and Justin’s eyes on her and that’s what kept her from looking up. Her eyes followed the same ant she had tried to help a while ago and she refused to look up; refused to see the disgust and repulse that she knew was in their eyes. She brushed her tears away, feeling an overwhelming sense of loneliness. She felt as though she had lost everything she had ever wished for just as it had been within her grasp. She felt like someone had just robbed her of everything she had ever had before she had had the time to savor and enjoy it.

“It’s just not fair...” she whispered as a tear dropped onto the grass.

Naomi looked up in surprise when she felt two warm hands on her shoulders. She almost cried in relief and thankfulness when she saw both JC and Justin’s anxious faces. There was no hatred or loathing in their eyes as she had expected, there was only love, concern and anger... anger that she knew was not directed at her, but at Marcus. She smiled through her tears and they helped her to her feet. She flung her arms around them, crying.

They hugged her tightly, tears welling up in their own eyes. They finally realized the intense pain she must have conquered... and they finally understood her hesitation to trust. From the start, they had felt that she never opened up completely to anyone. She always seemed to be hiding something and a dark cloud always seemed to be looming over her head. But now the shadow in her life was gone. And she had never felt as relieved or fortunate as she did at that moment.

Justin pulled back a little and wiped the tears from her eyes. “Don’t cry, Choc. It’s okay now. We’re going to make sure Marcus leaves and never comes back. Don’t you worry about a thing.” He smiled reassuringly at her, “I told you I would do anything to protect you and that hasn’t changed. But I don’t understand why you couldn’t have told us earlier. Why did it take you a meeting with Marcus to open up to us?”

“I... I was scared you wouldn’t understand. I was scared you would hate me or... or feel disgusted with me. It just felt so terrible. I hated myself and every time I thought about it, the worse I felt.” Naomi looked into his eyes and Justin wished for just five minutes with that Marcus guy... just five minutes alone and he would CRUSH him. The pain and hurt in her eyes was almost too much for him to bear. Justin bit his lip and pulled her close again as JC took a step back and watched them hug.

When Justin finally released Naomi, JC stepped forward and opened his arms. Naomi, half-crying and half-laughing, flung herself in his arms and wrapped her arms tightly around his waist. JC rested his chin on the top of her head and whispered words of comfort and solace. He was furious with himself... furious for not being able to be there when she needed him most, he was furious with Marcus... and he was disappointed in himself and in her. He wished she had been able to trust him enough to tell him everything, but... he sighed softly and closed his eyes. He tightened his hold on her one last time before releasing her gently.

Justin motioned for them to sit back under the tree. JC led Naomi by the hand and pulled her onto his lap. She snuggled against his chest and Justin reached out to stroke her cheek. She smiled at him and he smiled back, relieved that she was looking fine again. JC leaned his cheek against her head and said, “Justin, there are some things I need to clarify with Naomi. I don’t mind you being here to listen and I know she doesn’t mind. But everything we say here is private and confidential and I don’t want any of this to be repeated to any of the others. Not even Alyssa. Got that?”

Justin nodded, “You know you can trust me, JC. I may have a big mouth, but I know when to keep it shut.”

JC nodded then cupped his hands against Naomi’s cheeks and gently raised her face till her eyes met his. “Naomi...”

She knew, just by one word, that he was disappointed in her and she felt guilty about it. JC never called her ‘Naomi’ unless it was a serious matter. She sighed. She was going to explain her feelings as best as she could, but if he wouldn’t accept it... if it wasn’t enough... what then? She wondered.

Naomi looked up and gazed into JC’s intense blue eyes, mesmerized by their beauty. He stroked her hazel hair and kissed her cheek gently, “Why didn’t you tell me about this earlier? Why didn’t you call me to tell me? Or write? Why did you block me out of your life? Why didn’t you let me be there for you to lean on?”

Naomi sighed, “I... I wanted to, JC. I swear I wanted to. The number of times I picked up the phone and dialed your number... I can’t even begin to remember. But... I just lost my nerve every time. I couldn’t tell you. You saw me... you saw how difficult it was for me to say it to you face-to-face... how did you expect me to say it over the phone? Or in a letter? I needed to see how you would react... but after a while, I gave up on the thought. I didn’t think someone as wonderful as you should be dragged down because of someone like me. I just didn’t feel worthy of you anymore. I mean... I didn’t know how to face you.”

JC held her tighter and mentally cursed himself for ever letting her get that kind of impression. “I... I thought maybe it would be better for both of us if I just left your life quietly and never came back. I know you sent me tons of letters... but I couldn’t bring myself to reply them. And thank you, JC, for respecting my decision not to let you call me... even in that emergency when you were worried about me. Things might have turned out very differently if you had called me.”

JC bit his lip, “I’m sorry, Catch. I’m sorry you ever felt as though you weren’t good enough to talk to me or... to write to me. I will respect your decision no matter what because I know you will respect mine as well. If I feel you’re walking down the wrong path then I will go all out to turn you around... but other than that, as long as you feel you’re doing the right thing, I will be there to encourage you all the way.”

Naomi smiled and she knew that JC understood why she had not been able to tell him anything about Marcus before that. “I told you I was dating him though. Remember? We just never talked about him much.”

“Mmhmm...” JC nodded and rocked Naomi slowly to and fro. “I remember... I just wish I could have played a bigger part in your life, Catch. Now I feel as though I’ve let you down. I was always thinking of you but I was never actually there. I wish I could have played a more direct role in your life. I wish there was a chance for me to help you through everything you’ve been through...”

Naomi leaned her head against JC’s chest as he continued, “I was there when your parents died and I held you in my arms and let you cry... and you just cried and cried and I prayed I would never have to see that side of you again. I prayed that I would never have to see the vulnerable side of you... because it scared me. It scared me that someone as strong as you could crumble because it made me feel so weak. But it seems that I was never there after that. I wasn’t there when you and James needed money so badly you had to go without lunch at school every day. I wasn’t there when you guys finally managed to work your way to becoming wealthy. I wasn’t there to share your life with you as much as I wanted.”

Justin watched the two of them and smiled slightly. He loved Naomi like a sister and somehow... he sensed that JC loved her as more than that.

“We share so many memories, Catch... but for the most part I was only writing to you. I wasn’t there.”

Naomi sighed and stroked JC’s cheek gently, “It doesn’t matter. You watched me grow up, even if it was only through the letters. You KNOW me for me. And you love me for ME. And that’s all that matters. What I really want to do now... is to treasure everything I have. Two hours ago I wouldn’t have gone out with anyone who asked me out for a date. But now I realize how much I’ve been missing out on. Telling you about Marcus must have been the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. Because it made me think... if I told you... and you deserted me... I would have missed out on one of the biggest blessings in my life.”

Justin and JC looked at her in amazement and respect. Naomi smiled as she continued, “I realized that you guys are people I have come to love and care for... and I can’t imagine life without you. Two weeks... two weeks did this to me... it wiped away all the hurt and distrust I’ve kept inside of me for two years... TWO WEEKS Chase...”

Justin giggled. He couldn’t help it. Naomi looked at him and laughed as well. “I know it sounds weird... almost unbelievable... but this has made me stronger... and it’s made me realize that if I continue life this way... if I continue to distrust everyone around me... then I’m going to be missing out on the best part of life. And I don’t want to do that. I made a big mistake with Marcus. But I’m not going to let him rule my life anymore. I’m not going to continue making one big ball of mistakes... I’m going to trust again. And live life that way I’ve always wanted to. But never dared.”

Justin’s eyes were filled with admiration when he looked at Naomi. He was proud of her because she was able to see that one wrong move in life didn’t mean a whole life worth of mistakes. JC nodded and smiled. “This is one decision I am definitely going to support you in, Catch. I’m with you all the way.”

“And there’s no way I’m being left out of this,” Justin grinned. He kissed Naomi on the forehead and said, “You can come to me anytime.”

“Thank you Justin. That’s the best thing you could have said to me.” Naomi pulled out of JC’s arms and flopped onto her back, lying in the soft grass. “Mmm... I love it here but I think it’s time we got back to Jive. You guys have your recording to do, remember? And... as much as I’d like to stay here for the rest of the day, I’m your chaperone and I’m responsible for you so... let’s get back to Jive.”

JC laughed and saluted, “Yes ma’am.” He got to his feet and pulled Naomi to her feet as well. Justin was about to follow when he remembered...

“JC!” he yelled. “Wait!”

JC turned around in surprise. “What’s wrong Justin?”

“Um... I have to talk to you... about... Naomi.”

Naomi bit her lip, “I remember you mentioning that in the car, Justin. Should I, you know, leave you two alone to sort this out?”

“NO!” JC shook his head. “Look, J. This isn’t the best time to discuss... whatever it is you want to discuss. We need to get that recording done because we’re already way behind schedule. If we don’t hurry, Jive is gonna have our heads. Look,” he reassured Justin when he saw Justin was about to protest, “I promise I’ll talk to you tonight. I’ll tell you everything you need to know. As long as Lance is there too.”

“Lance?” Justin pretended to be surprised. “What does Lance have to do with any of this?”

“Oh, don’t act all innocent with me, Justin,” JC narrowed his eyes. “You know exactly why Lance is involved and that innocent act is not going to help.”

Naomi looked from one guy to the other. “Um... guys?” she took one step towards the car. “Let’s just go back, okay? I know you have a lot to tell him, Justin, but it will have to wait. I’m sorry for wasting so much of your time but right now we’re going back to Jive and THAT’S AN ORDER! Now get into the car, you can still talk there.”

Justin sighed and shrugged, “I really wouldn’t dare to argue with you anyway, Choc. Okay, let’s go.”

Naomi smiled, satisfied and bounced into the car. She felt as though a heavy weight had been lifted from her shoulders. She wasn’t going to let Marcus scare her into hiding anymore. She was going to go all out and enjoy life the way she should have from the beginning. She sighed and relaxed against her seat. She stared out of the window, enjoying the scenery as they drove back to Jive. After a few tense moments, Naomi broke the ice by saying, “Can you guys sing me something?”

Justin thought for a moment before humming the opening chords to ‘God Must’ve Spent A Little More Time On You’.

“Can this be true, tell me, can this be real? How can I put into words what I feel? My life was complete, I thought I was whole, why do I feel like I’m losing control? I never thought that love could feel like this, and you changed my world with just one kiss, how can it be that right here with me, there’s an angel? It’s a miracle...”

Naomi joined in when they started singing the chorus and Justin broke off, leaving JC and Naomi singing by themselves. He couldn’t help noticing how beautifully their voices sounded together. Their voices blended perfectly and Naomi had a wonderful sense of music. She knew exactly which pitch to sing at and Justin couldn’t help sighing guiltily when he realized what he was thinking. Sorry Lance... but she may not be the girl for you after all.

(At Jive)

“Where are they?” Lance couldn’t help asking, for the millionth time. “It’s been over two hours! They should be back by now! What if... what is something happened to them? What if... what if they-”

“Lance! I swear I’m going to gag you if you keep ranting and raving about them getting into an accident!” Chris yelled, his eyes wide. He was nervous as it was and having Lance screaming like a lunatic just didn’t help. “JC is driving, not Justin, not Naomi. AND THEY’RE GOING TO BE FINE!”

Joey patted Lance on the back, “Chris is right, Lance. Calm down... I swear I’ve never seen you this worked up. Look, sit there and calm down. Alyssa, maybe you can talk some sense into this idiot here.”

Alyssa giggled and nodded. She patted Lance on the back and said, “Why don’t you guys go do some voice warm-ups or whatever you call it. I mean, it’s no use sitting around here and worrying. I’m sure they’re okay and they’ll come back in one piece. Naomi just had a lot to tell them and they probably had a lot to say to her too.”

Lance exhaled noisily and pulled a funny face. “I guess you’re right.” He stood up and walked towards the recording room before turning back to Alyssa and saying, “But I just can’t keep my mind off it. What if they’ve met with an accident or...”

With a strangled cry, Chris leapt off of his seat and covered his hand over Lance’s mouth. “You know the only one I’m this extreme with would be Justin but you’re really pushing it Lance. Now shut up and calm down!”

Lance nodded, swallowed a few times and Chris released his mouth slowly. “But what if they’ve broken an arm or-” Lance’s rambling was cut off when Chris slammed his hand back over Lance’s mouth.

“ARGH! When is this guy going to SHUT UP?”

Alyssa grinned and pointed to Jive’s main entrance, where Naomi, Justin and JC were clearly visible outside. “Right about now.”

Joey sighed thankfully and raised his eyes to the ceiling, “So there is a God after all. Thank you Father! Amen.”

Chris ran to the door and yanked it open for Naomi. He flung his arms around the surprised girl and said, “Thank you thank you thank you! Thank you for making it back in one piece! Thank you for not breaking an arm or a leg! Thank you for not meeting with an accident! THANK YOU FOR COMING BACK!”

Naomi raised her eyebrows when Chris pulled back and kissed her over and over on the cheek. She giggled when she saw that JC and Justin were just as surprised as she was as Chris’ welcome.

“Okay, just before I start freaking out, maybe you could tell me why you’re so glad to see me, Chris?”

“Ask Lance over there. He was rambling about you guys meeting an accident at least ten million times over. I could kiss your feet right about now. Actually, I feel just about ready to do anything because he’ll finally SHUT UP.” Chris smiled brightly and turned to Lance. “Now that she’s back in one piece, can we start recording?”

JC nodded quickly. “Yeah... we’re already really behind with the new album. There are fans waiting and I’d really hate to disappoint them.”

Naomi bit her lip, “I’m sorry I worried everyone like that and I’m sorry for taking up so much of your precious time. I’ve got everything sorted out with Chase and Justin and... I’m going to explain everything to you guys later because I think all of you deserve an explanation as to my, um, little shock just now.”

“Right... little shock,” Joey said disbelievingly. Naomi smiled brightly and pushed them into the recording booth.

“Look, Ally and I are going to be waiting here okay? You guys are going to do great.” Naomi reassured them. “I can feel it.”

The guys gave them all a thumbs-up sign and crowded into the room. After they did their warm-up, they were ready to ‘rock and roll’, as Alyssa said. “Man, they sound good over the radio, but this is just incredible!” Alyssa’s voice was dreamy.

Naomi smiled and swayed to the music. She nodded and said, “I couldn’t agree more, Ally. But they’ve worked really hard to get this far. I mean, do you remember the first time we heard of them? We were like, what a weird name! Well, until we heard their music. I’ll never forget that first magical moment.”

Alyssa laughed, “Magical? Meeting the guys... now that’s what I’d call magical. And that’s why I can’t believe we’re actually hanging out with them. I actually pinch myself every morning to make sure I’m not dreaming this whole thing! They’re such nice people... do you know their status? I mean... they’re stars! And they are so humble. And they make it so clear that they think of themselves as nothing but regular people.”

Naomi leaned backwards and lifted her legs onto the table in front of her, to Alyssa’s horror. “Don’t look so shocked, Ally. I’m going to get a bit more comfortable and give them the shock of their lives when they get out of there.”

Alyssa laughed, “A bit more comfortable? You look about as comfortable as a bunny caught in the trap. But you’re definitely going to shock them, Mayo. And I think Lance has a weak heart, so it would probably be best if you just sat up properly instead of trying to get them sent into the hospital.”

Naomi giggled and blinked innocently, “What? Get Lance sent to the hospital? Oh Ally! I wouldn’t dream of it.”

Alyssa shook her head at Naomi’s mischievous laughter. “Well, it’s going to be a while before the guys get out of there, so... do you want to get something to eat? A sandwich or something?”

Naomi shook her head, “Nah... I’m not hungry. You go ahead, Ally. I’m just going to sit around and wait for them to finish.”

“And then?”

Naomi grinned evilly, “Then I torture them.”

Alyssa giggled, “You wouldn’t dare. Anyway, how are you going to break the news about... about Marcus... to Lance?”

Alyssa was surprised but glad when Naomi didn’t flinch at his name. “What do you mean? I’m going to tell him... just like I told Chase and Justin. I know Lance has feelings for me, Ally. But I don’t have that kind of love for him. I’m sorry if he can’t accept it and I know he’s going to feel a little shocked, but at least he’ll know that I’m open for challenges now. I decided I’m just going to live my life my way. So if he asks me out on a date, I’m going to say ‘yes’, Ally. So I’m glad you’ve waited for me to make up my mind - yeah, I know that’s why you didn’t make your move on Chase earlier - but now’s time for you to strike.”

Alyssa giggled, “Do you think he’ll be blown away?”

“I don’t know,” Naomi shrugged nonchalantly. But again, something didn’t feel right when the image of JC and Alyssa appeared in her mind. “I sure hope so. I can’t think of anyone better for him than you, Ally.”

“You don’t mean that, Mayo.”

“What?” Naomi turned to Alyssa, shock written all over her face. “Of... of course I do! I mean, you and Chase are my best friends! What’s there not to be happy about? It’ll be nice to see you guys getting together.”

Alyssa sighed and shrugged, “It’s okay if you won’t admit it. But I can tell you’re not one hundred percent happy about the idea of me and him together.”

“Dammit Ally! Why don’t you just say, ‘I can read your mind, Naomi, so it’s no use even trying to hide anything from me?’”

Alyssa smiled despite herself, “I can read your mind, Naomi, so it’s no use even trying to hide anything from me.”

Naomi groaned. “That was not what I wanted to hear from you, Ally.”

“The truth hurts, dear.”

“Ouch!” Naomi pretended to wince. “I’m hurting.”

Alyssa giggled, then sighed, “Mayo, why aren’t you totally happy about the idea of me and JC being together?”

Naomi pretended to think, “Hmm... well, I guess it’s because I’ve known him for so long that sometimes I wish all his attention would be focused just on me. I don’t mean forever, but I guess part of what he said is true. He wasn’t there when I was growing up, and I guess I wish I had more time to spend with him now that we’ve met again.” She looked at Alyssa with a very guilty expression on her face. “Is that bad?”

Alyssa made a sad face and nodded. “Oh yes. Very.”

Naomi’s face fell before she realized Alyssa was joking. “That was so not funny Alyssa Carter!”

“Did I say it was meant to be funny, Naomi Taylor?”

Naomi stuck out her tongue at Alyssa, who giggled. “I’m so hurt. How could you even say that? How could you insult me like that?”

Alyssa laughed, “Insult? That’s an insult? Ooh... you’ve got it all wrong, Mayo baby. But don’t ask for trouble, darlin’, before I give you a real insult.”

Naomi stifled a laugh and pouted, “I’m going to tell James to make you go without supper, you mean thing.”

Alyssa looked horrified. She pulled the cell phone out of Naomi’s hands and begged, “No! Oh my god, I am so sorry Naomi. You know I didn’t really mean to tease you like that. Don’t call James! I’ll be good, I promise.”

Naomi laughed loudly, “At last, I’ve hit your weak point.”

Alyssa winked at her, “You always knew food was my weakness.”

“That’s true,” Naomi said and they both laughed.

(Two and a half hours later.)

“Finally! We’re done!” Joey cheered, stretching as they stepped out of the recording booth. “Thank you JC!”

“Why are you thanking him? He’s the one who started all our misery and torture in the first place,” Justin grumbled.

Chris grinned wickedly, “Aww... Mr. Macho here couldn’t take it?”

“Don’t push it, Chris.”

“Oh, someone’s in a bad temper today. I wonder... could it have anything to do with that pretty young lady sitting on that chair there?”

“What I’m wondering... is how that ugly piece of meat with the dread-locks would taste after being roasted slowly and painfully over an open fire for about an hour? Would it taste crunchy and simply ooze with blood?” Justin retorted through gritted teeth in mock anger. “It’s really funny but I suddenly have the urge to become a cannibal.”

Naomi’s head jerked up at Justin’s words. “Don’t even think that,” she warned him. “I mean it.”

“Aww...” JC put his arm around Naomi’s shoulders. “Are you scared we’ll chew your bones, suck your blood and feed on your meat?”

Naomi’s eyes widened, “Where did you get that from?”

“I just thought of it.”

“Oh my god, Alyssa!” Naomi yelped, “So it is true! All men think alike! Stupidity is running the world!”

Alyssa giggled. “I bet you saw that on the piece of paper James had printed about cannibals.”

JC raised an eyebrow at her, “Well, well, well... what do you know? The same sneaky minds think alike.” Alyssa giggled and blushed.

Naomi looked at her in surprise. Well, she’s making her move quick enough, she thought, winking at Alyssa, who winked back.

“Let’s go for lunch, shall we?” Lance suggested, holding his hand out to Naomi graciously.

Naomi grinned at him. “I thought you’d never ask.”

As they made their way to the car, Lance whispered in her ear, “You have a lot to tell me, young lady. Whether you like it or not.”

Naomi smiled and her teeth shone in the light. “Oh, but you’re mistaken there, Lance. I would love to.”

Lance looked at her in surprise, “I think Chris is right, Naomi,” he concluded. “You’re beginning to really scare me here.”

“Oh but you ain’t seen nothing yet.”


JC watched as Lance and Naomi walked out the entrance of Jive and he smiled. He definitely needed to clarify a few things with Lance that night. And Justin should certainly be there to hear it. He looked down at Alyssa, who had linked her arm with his and was giggling at something Joey had said. He felt a strange feeling come over him and he tried to shrug it off. There was something about Alyssa that... attracted him.

Maybe it was her looks, or maybe it was her walk. But something about her made him go weak in the knees. JC licked his lips nervously and counted to ten mentally. He needed to calm down and make some sense out of what he was feeling. It was as though Alyssa could give him something he never had before. I wonder if this is... love? But JC cleared the thought at once. It was crazy! He had known Alyssa for, what, two weeks? And here he thought he was falling in love? It just wasn’t possible.

JC sighed in exasperation. Getting reunited with Naomi... finding out about Marcus... complicated feelings for Alyssa... everything was just moving too fast. JC felt like he was being pulled in ten thousand directions at once. Where am I supposed to go from here? What do I do now? Who can I turn to?

JC was tempted to tell Naomi everything but something held him back. He couldn’t help noticing that his little Catch had grown up. And that she was definitely a beautiful young woman. His little girl was gone, and was now replaced by a ravishing young lady. JC sighed. It felt as though his world was crashing down around him and he had no place to turn. He felt something for Naomi... but he didn’t know what. And then Alyssa was a problem too. And now Lance. Can’t these things come one at a time?

JC looked up in surprised when he saw Naomi snap her fingers in front of his face. “Chase?” she smiled. “What are you thinking about?”

“Damn, you know me well.”

Naomi giggled, “You bet I do. After eighteen years, I should.”

Alyssa bit her lip and then smiled. “Wow, Mayo. I should watch you at your work a bit more. Maybe then I’ll figure out how to pull this guy out of his daydreams.”

Naomi smiled, “Look, just snap your fingers in front of his face and call his name. I’m not sure if ‘JC’ works because I never tried it. Maybe you can try later.”

Alyssa giggled and nodded. “I think I will.”

“Um, guys...” Lance’s deep voice interrupted from the back. “I... do you think you can finally let us in on what’s going on with Naomi?”

“Um...” Naomi faltered. It had been a relief telling JC and Justin but relieving it again for the second time that day with an audience... she didn’t think she had the guts or the energy. If it had been nerve wrecking the first time, it would be worse the second. “I don’t think I can repeat it again... Chase, could you-”

JC smiled, “Just relax, Catch. Alyssa, you and Naomi take Justin’s car. Make sure Justin doesn’t get behind that wheel. He’s dangerous. Hmm... from what I heard, you’re not any better.” Alyssa blushed at JC’s words and he grinned, “Naomi, you drive.”

“Yes sir.”

“The other three of you, come with me and I’ll explain everything about Naomi and... and whatever it is that happened just now.”

Lance, Chris and Joey shrugged. They each gave Naomi a kiss on the cheek and then waved as she pulled out of the car park. They trudged to Lance’s car and then, when they were driving out of Jive, Lance asked impatiently, “So... spit it out already!”

JC looked upset. “Okay... this guy, Marcus... he was Naomi’s ex. Well, the reason she fainted just now was because she saw him at Jive. And she claims that he knows she’s working for us now. Well, not for us, but she said that he knows she’s working with us. Maybe you think she was overreacting, but actually, she and Marcus... he almost raped her before.” Lance’s eyes were wide with amazement as JC continued.

“Yep, our strong, outgoing Naomi was almost raped by that... bloody son of a bitch.” JC was furious. He hadn’t shown his anger because he was worried that Naomi would have been frightened but now she wasn’t around, he felt a fury inside him so intense that he wanted to stop the car and get out of the driver’s seat right there and then. But he took a few calming breaths and continued. “But she’s okay now. She said that telling us was the hardest thing she had ever done because she thought we would think she wasn’t good enough to hang around with... dammit! If I get my hands on that guy, I swear I’ll KILL him.”

Chris and Joey were shaking their heads. “The poor girl. But if she’s stronger now... does that mean she’s willing to trust again?”

JC nodded. “Uh-huh. She’s tired of living in fear... so I guess this is a good sign. I hope that, you know, we’ll be able to see this side of her more... from the time I met her again, I always felt that something was wrong... she just wasn’t totally herself. Now she’s found that missing part back, so I guess everything’s okay.”

Lance bit his lip, “I hope you’re right JC. I hope you’re right.”

(In the evening, At Justin’s house)

“Justin, Lance, we need to talk.”

The three guys walked into JC’s room and sat down on the bed. “There are quite a few things we need to get clarified.” JC’s face was tense as he spoke, “It’s about Naomi... and Alyssa.”


TBC




Lance threw Justin a dirty look as they closed and locked the door to JC’s room. “I didn’t tell him anything,” Justin licked his lips. He didn’t like the look Lance was giving him one bit. “I swear!”

“It’s okay, Lance... don’t bite his head off. Old Justin there didn’t say a word,” JC shook his head when Justin sighed in relief and Lance began to relax. “But... it’s pretty obvious that, you know, you’re interested in Catch.”

Lance shrugged his shoulders, trying to act nonchalant about the whole thing, “Well... I guess... I’m feeling something more than just a brotherly feeling towards her... you know, I just, well, I know this sounds crazy, but I want to be with her. She’s all I can think of... every second of the day I just... I can’t focus on anything other than her. I mean, yeah, our music’s really important to me and sometimes I forget about her and all my problems. When we sing, I just lose myself in the feeling of it... but when we stop everything just comes crashing back down on me. Damn, I don’t even know what I feel for her.”

JC folded his arms over his chest and tapped his foot impatiently on the floor. “Lance, somehow you sound like you’re out to play with Catch’s feelings and I don’t appreciate that thought.”

Justin sighed and flopped onto the bed. He looked from Lance’s confused expression to JC’s angry one, and sighed again. “Cool it, guys. Lance, do you like Choc or not? I’m sorry but I agree with JC. You sound like you want to toy around with her. And I’m beginning to feel really protective over her so...”

“Dammit Justin! I’m not out to toy around with her, okay? I just... I’m not sure how I feel about her. When you told me about Marcus today, the first thing that went through my mind were the words ‘I’m gonna kill that guy’... of course there was shock that anything like that could have happened to our lively girl, but... I felt this defensiveness over Naomi. I just... I just wanted to hold her and tell her how everything would be okay.” Lance glared at JC and then turned to face Justin. “I’ll say this once, and only once. I am NOT out to play with anyone’s feelings.”

Justin raised his hands as if to shield himself from Lance’s anger. “Okay, I believe you. But there are a lot of issues to be cleared here tonight. Look, this room is set far apart from the rest because I know JC is more of a private person than the rest of us so we can just scream and fight and curse and no one’s going to hear a thing. JC, I know you’re feeling really angry and worried over this Marcus thing, so you can vent it all out... later. Lance, I really don’t know how you feel about it but... now’s the time to tell us.”

Lance licked his lips. “It’s difficult to explain. Look, JC, I know you love Naomi like a sister and you want to protect her at all costs, but I’m not going to hurt her. I... I think I’m in love,” Lance shrugged helplessly. “But that’s the craziest thing I have ever heard. I don’t believe in love at first sight, or that love can be built in a matter of two weeks. I... I don’t know what I’m feeling towards her. I don’t know if it’s attraction, or if it’s a crush, or if it’s love. I am just so FREAKING confused.”

JC sighed, “You know what, Lance?”

“What?”

“I think I understand exactly what you’re trying to say.”

“WHAT?”

“Mmhmm... I’m getting mixed signals from Alyssa and Catch here. One minute, I feel like Alyssa is drooling over me, literally. And the next... the next she’s acting like I’m her older brother. The signals I got from her today just read, EAT ME UP, I AM YOURS FOR THE TAKING... but I don’t know how she’ll behave tomorrow. It’s like she’s blowing hot and cold. I don’t really know what she wants.

“And then Catch... now I know this is gonna sound weird, but... usually I get the feeling she loves me as nothing, I repeat, nothing, more than an older brother. But when she sees me and Alyssa together, maybe acting a little bit closer than we should be, I see something like uncertainty in her eyes. I thought I even saw jealousy the other day. I don’t know what she’s thinking. I don’t even know what I’m thinking, for crying out loud!”

Justin could see that it was now JC’s turn to go all hysterical. “Sometimes I feel something pulling at me... and it’s screaming at me to... to take Alyssa in my arms, dip her and give her the most passionate kiss she has ever felt in her life... and sometimes I... I just want to shake Catch and ask her what the hell she thinks of me.”

Lance swallowed painfully. “I’m not allowing you to hurt Alyssa in any way, JC. You want to protect Naomi, fine. But Alyssa is my good friend and someone I would lay down my life for. You better make up your mind before you go for either girl.”

Lance sighed, “Actually, what I wanted to ask you really was whether you would mind if I went out with Naomi, like, on a date?”

“As long as she’s single, you should go for it. It doesn’t matter if I’m in love with her, because as much as you care for me, Lance, it would be totally wrong for you to keep your feelings to yourself just because I liked her. If she chooses another guy at the end of the day, then well, too bad, give up. But as long as she’s single, you should go for it... with everything you’ve got.”

Lance grinned, “So Alyssa was right after all.”

JC and Justin looked at him funnily but didn’t pursue it. Justin patted Lance and JC on the back. “Now I want to know your feelings about the whole Marcus-and-Naomi thing. Come on, tell me how you felt the exact moment you realized she was that close to being raped. And how you felt when you got over the initial shock.”

“Justin, are you the friggin’ interrogator or something?”

“Okay, okay... forget I ever said anything.” Justin shuddered at the look JC gave him. “Jesus JC, if looks could kill, I’d drop dead at your feet.”

“I don’t think that’s such a bad idea, J.”

“Ouch.”

Lance rolled his eyes. “Look, how I felt you guys already know. And I swear I have never been as worried or freaked out over someone as I was over Naomi at that moment. If you think I’m lying, I really have nothing to say. But I’m praying I’ll never meet that Marcus guy... for his sake... because I don’t know what I’ll do if I see him.”

“Well, firstly, you’d say good morning, because YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT THE HELL HE LOOKS LIKE!”

“Although that’s a good point, Justin, I know you’re feeling the same thing I am. I may not know what he looks like, but that’s besides the point. All I can say is that I definitely feel more than just ‘brotherly affection’ for her,” Lance grimaced.

“I guess it’s my turn?” JC chuckled bitterly when Lance didn’t continue and Justin didn’t think he had ever heard anything more ugly than JC’s laugh in his life. “I can’t even begin to explain the feelings or thoughts that raced through my head when Naomi said she had ALMOST... BEEN... RAPED. I can’t explain the reason behind the adrenaline that flowed through my body like lightning or the reason why my heart began pounding at two hundred beats per second! I can’t explain why I almost punched the tree and broke my knuckles when inside I felt like crying. But I can tell you why I hate myself more than I hate that bastard who did this to her.

“I HATE MYSELF for not being there when she needed me. I HATE MYSELF for not pulling her out of her crisis earlier. I hate myself for having to watch her grow up through her letters instead of being there to see her at her senior prom, out on her first date, her first interview, her first job... I HATE that I couldn’t be there through her life and that she could pick what she wanted to tell me when I wanted to know every single detail about her life. I wanted to know about her disappointments, her heartaches, her troubles, her worries... but all I got were the happy times. She would confide in me after her troubles were over or when they were just too much to bear, but other than that, she would keep everything locked up inside, and I HATE that I couldn’t be there to force everything out of her!”

JC was breathing heavily. He had never felt as much anger or hatred towards himself as he did at that moment. “I hate myself for having to hear her choke out her problem with Marcus when I should have been there to stop it from happening. Dammit! Are you satisfied now, Justin? I told you exactly how I feel.”

Justin bit his trembling lip and blinked back his tears. “I’m sorry, JC,” he whispered. “But none of this was your fault. You never meant for this to happen. You wanted to be there. You tried to be there. That’s what matters. That’s what counts here.”

JC stumbled backwards and stopped when his back finally hit the wall. “No Justin... you don’t get it. I claimed to be her friend, her confidante... I claimed that I would love her forever. And you know what? The mere fact that I couldn’t be there even though I wanted to be... that is what hurts me the most. Privacy and normalcy... the two things I want, no, I need... I can’t have them. And you know why? It’s all because of our music. I love music. It’s my life. I wouldn’t give it up for the world. But I just wish there could be some way for me to be there every day in her life. Some way for me to make this up to her. I wish there was some way I could spend more TIME with her!”

Lance closed his eyes, an anguished look on his usually carefree face. “Don’t do this to yourself, JC. You’re just torturing yourself. It’s not going to help her in any way... she needs to be helped... and your ranting isn’t helping anything.”

“Dammit Lance... then tell me what I can do!” JC shouted. Then he sighed and ran an agitated hand through his brown hair. “Look, I’m sorry. Forget it. Let’s just drop it. I don’t want to start another fight or another argument over something like this. I just want there to be some way to help her... and to get out of this never ending pit I seem to have dug for myself. I’m just going to take it a step at a time. I’m so confused. I’m going to forget about any feelings or signals... maybe I’m just reading too deeply into them. They’re both innocent and I’m just... not thinking straight.”

Lance gave JC a brotherly hug. “Look, everything will turn out okay. Right now, the biggest problem is already settled. Naomi is okay now that she’s gotten everything off her chest. She needs your support and your friendship. Now is the time you can make up for it. Now is the time to start making amends.”

Lance went out of the room after JC forced a smiled and said, “Yeah... I think you’re right. Thanks Lance. And... you should make your move now. Catch should know how you feel for her... even if you’re not sure yet. Just go with the flow... maybe it’ll come to you like a bolt from the blue.”

Justin bounced on JC’s bed, his lips pressed into a thin line. “JC, you know that I didn’t buy that ‘I-am-okay-with-you-and-Choc-dating-so-go-right-ahead’ thing for a second, right?”

JC shrugged. “I don’t know, Justin. I don’t know anything anymore.”

Justin sighed, “Listen, JC. I should probably be on Lance’s side because, honestly, you sound like the one trying to play with the girls’ feelings... but I know you’re not the type, so I have a few words of advice.”

“Shoot.”

“Listen to your heart.”

“What?”

Justin smiled and shrugged as he left the room. “You heard me. Now it’s up to you to decide what you want to do about it.”

Justin giggled at JC’s confused expression as he closed the door. “Go for it, JC. Do what you told Lance to do and go... for... it.” He whispered to the door, knowing that JC wouldn’t hear him and yet having to speak his thoughts. “I’m behind you all the way, buddy.”

(In Naomi’s bedroom.)

Naomi sighed and rubbed her eyes. She lifted the clock from the bedside table next to her. Twelve-thirty in the morning?! I’ve just got to get some sleep if I’m going to meet the guys at Jive tomorrow... I mean, today... at nine. Okay, close your eyes, Naomi, and start counting sheep. One... two... three... five, I mean four... hell! This isn’t working! Ally’s sleeping, James is sleeping, so why can’t I sleep?

You know why, Naomi... you know exactly why you can’t sleep and-

Her thoughts were interrupted by the ringing of the phone. She quickly picked the cordless phone up, hoping that James hadn’t been awoken by the sound, and wondering who would call them that late at night. “Hello?”

“Catch?” Naomi almost cried when she heard JC’s voice. He sounded so good. Just that one word brought her comfort and calmness. And listening to his reassurances were just what she needed then.

“Chase?”

“Yeah... listen, I’m sorry I called... I know it’s late and I know you don’t like it, but... I needed to talk to you,” JC bit his lip, wondering how she would react. “If you want me to hang up then-”

“No!” Naomi protested. “No... don’t hang up, Chase.”

“Um, you see, I’m really sorry but I just had to talk to you.”

Naomi giggled, “Funny but I was just thinking the same thing.”

JC smiled to himself, but then his face fell, “So why aren’t you sleeping? I thought you were still the early sleeper kind.”

“Well, yeah, I am...” Naomi admitted, “I just... I’m just not very...” she stifled a yawn. “tired right now.”

“Right...” JC rolled his eyes and his tone plainly gave away his disbelief. “Listen, you don’t really think I fell for that ‘I’m-okay-now-so-don’t-worry-about-me’ act, do you? Come on, Catch, you know I know you better than that.”

“Well...” Naomi bit her lip, then sighed. Why am I even hiding this from him? Why shouldn’t I just tell him how I feel about everything? “You... I am scared, Chase... but it’s over now and I’m trying really hard to get over it. But... but at night I just...” Naomi felt tears coming to her eyes and she swiped them away. “The memories just come flooding back and there’s no way to hide from them or keep them away.”

JC inhaled sharply when he heard the fear in her voice, “Is that all you’re scared of, Catch? I’m sure there’s more. You can’t have gotten over it that quick... you always put up a brave front... what’s so wrong about showing your vulnerable side? It’s only me.”

Naomi sighed, “It’s because it’s you. I... I don’t want you to feel burdened or worried about it. Heaven knows... you’ve got enough work as it is. I just...”

“You’re trying to protect me, aren’t you, Catch?” JC’s bottom lip was trembling. “All this time you wouldn’t tell me how you were really feeling about... about everything... you were just trying to protect me.”

Naomi hung her head and nodded, even though she knew that he couldn’t see her then. “Yeah.”

“Then tell me now. Tell me everything. I want to know, Catch... I need to know.” JC ran a hand through his hair.

“You’re right, Chase. I’m scared. I... I don’t know how the other guys are going to react after they’ve gotten over the shock. They acted like I was a live bomb even today. I don’t want that. I don’t need their pity. That’s why I didn’t tell anyone in the first place. I need to have some sense of normalcy... I need to know that after all this I can still be treated like... I don’t know, a normal person.”

“The guys would never chide you because of this, Catch. I know them and they’re not the type. They’ll put it behind them and everything will just be normal for them.” JC reassured her but he knew there was a look of disbelief on her face.

“I hope so... the other thing I’m worried about... I... I want to know that Marcus is out of Jive before he does something else.”

“Like what?” JC asked, gently. He was glad that Naomi was opening up totally towards him. He knew that what she had said was true - she was going to live life her way, and she was going to start trusting again. But he also knew that it wasn’t that simple to trust someone. Trust wasn’t something you could build overnight. It took years to be able to trust in someone, and even then, the trust may not be totally there.

There was a pause before Naomi answered softly. “I don’t know.”

JC knew she was lying. She was scared Marcus would try to rape her again. JC hated to hear the fear in her voice. With a steely determination, he replied, “I’ll get him fired. I promise.”

There was another pause. Naomi listened to JC’s even breathing and it calmed her somewhat. “Chase?”

“Hmm?”

“Do you think you could... you know, come over for a while? I... don’t want to be alone tonight and... Alyssa’s gone to sleep already.”

JC chuckled. “Naomi, go out into the garden.”

“Why?”

“Just do it... come on.”

Something in JC’s voice made Naomi giggle. She walked down the stairs, opened the front door and stepped out into the garden, the phone still in her hand. She clutched it tightly as she walked forward a few steps cautiously. “Chase? What exactly am I supposed to be-”

Naomi struggled when someone gently put a hand over her mouth and eyes. “Shh...” she heard him whisper and she grinned when she realized who it was. He dropped the hand covering her mouth to his side, cleared his throat and said, “Guess who?”

Naomi giggled, “I like your surprises, Chase.”

JC groaned, “Aww man... how did you know?”

He spun Naomi around to meet him and she grinned when she saw the twinkle of mischief in his eyes. “Come on, admit it, I know you cheated!”

“I did NOT!” Naomi cried indignantly.

JC shrugged, but there was a devilish look in his eyes that Naomi didn’t miss. “It’s okay if you won’t admit it.”

Naomi stuck out her tongue and JC grinned, his teeth a brilliant white in the moonlight. “Come on, let’s go for a drive.”

“Now?” Naomi asked, amazed.

“Now.”

“But you’ve got work tomorrow and...”

JC clapped his hand over her mouth and said, “It’s just for one night. Don’t worry about me. And you can’t sleep either. So let’s just enjoy the ride.”

Naomi giggled and nodded.

(Ten minutes later, In JC’s car.)

Naomi sat comfortably in the passenger seat of JC’s car. He had his hand over hers and that gave her some comfort. “Chase?”

“Hmm?”

“I... do you... never mind.” Somehow, Naomi just couldn’t find the words to say. She badly wanted to ask JC if he felt anything for Alyssa. She was curious and yet worried about his answer.

JC scrutinized Naomi carefully for a second before turning his eyes back on the road. “Look, Catch, if there’s anything you want to ask me, shoot. We’ve always been blunt with each other and now is just not the time to start getting tongue-tied.”

Naomi nodded and licked her lips nervously. “Well, I... you see... oh hell! Alyssa likes you, Chase. And I want to know if you feel anything for her.”

JC couldn’t help smiling. “Okay... I have to admit that was pretty straightforward. Mmm... this is kind of a tough question, Catch. Lance, Justin and I had a good talk just now... and, well, let’s just say I’m not very sure about my feelings yet. I’ll admit one thing, though... Alyssa is definitely a woman I feel attracted to. I just don’t know if it’s only attraction... or something more.”

“I see...” Naomi sighed. She understood completely what JC meant. Well, kind of. “And... what about Lance?”

JC almost accelerated instead of braking when he heard her question. He slowed down at the traffic light and turned to Naomi. “Are you absolutely, positively, one-hundred percent sure you want to know?”

Naomi nodded fervently.

JC turned away quickly to hide a grin as he said. “I can’t tell you.”

Naomi’s eyes were wide. “Hey... you... I... how can you just... I mean, you told me to...” she sputtered indignantly.

JC couldn’t help smiling at her. “Okay, okay! Well... Lance admitted he feels more than just ‘brotherly affection’ for you. He thinks he likes you and I think he’s going to make a move on you real soon. So you’d better be careful.”

Naomi giggled. “If he’s after me, then the only one who should be careful is him! You can ask Alyssa, I’m deadly on dates.”

JC laughed at her devilish expression. “Ahh... but you don’t know our Lance, young lady. He can be just as baaaaaddd as you claim to be.”

“Claim?” Naomi smacked JC on the shoulder and smiled in satisfaction when he howled with pain. “What do you mean, claim?”

“Okay, okay!” JC shook his head at her, jamming his foot on the accelerator when the light turned green. “While Lance is only bad, you are absolutely the worst, deadliest thing on dates.” He turned to look at her with an amused expression on his face. “Is that any better, O queen?”

Naomi crossed her arms over her chest and grinned, “Yes. Thank you.”

They giggled and JC continued to drive slowly down the road.

“Chase?”

“Hmm?”

“Where are we going?”

“You’ll see, Catch...”

Naomi shrugged and focused on the road again. They had been driving down the same road for about ten minutes now. “That’s it!” JC yelled suddenly, turning the car and swerving into the nearest parking lot. “Finally!”


TBC