"We're here," Brian said with a smile when he pulled over. He glanced at the passenger seat where his wife, Leighanne, and son, Baylee, were sitting.

"Finally," AJ said while putting on his sunglasses. "What a long drive." He grabbed his bag and stepped out of the car. The rest of the guys followed him

"Do you think it was a right decision to leave our bodyguards? Will it be safe for us to stroll around this town?" Howie asked his group mates while looking at his pregnant wife, Leigh.

"Don't worry, Howie. Jen said no one in this town knows about the Backstreet Boys, so you're pretty much like just regular guys here." Leighanne explained while helping Baylee carry his backpack. Howie looked around. There is a small convenience store across the street and he silently wished it has everything they might need in their two weeks stay here. Except for their car, there are only three cars on the street which means they won't deal with traffic for the next two weeks. He smiled at that thought. Few people are passing by and no one gave them a second look, which would never happen had they been in another town. It's just a small and quiet town, just what they really need right now. He nodded and started picking up their bags. He reached for his wife's hand and held it tight.

"So? Where are we staying?" AJ asked as he reached for a pack of cigarettes on his pocket. He opened it and tried to light one cigarette but he stopped when he saw Baylee looking at him. He slightly shrugged his shoulders and put the cigarettes back to his pocket and he smiled at Baylee. The cute little boy smiled back.

"There." Brian pointed at a two-storey house in front of them. "Jen said it has three bedrooms on the second floor."

"Three?" AJ asked in disbelief. "Does it mean I have to share a room with Nick?" He looked at Nick over his shoulder and saw him wearing a you-can't-do-anything-about-it smile. AJ rolled his eyes and Nick laughed out loud.

"I told you Alex, get married too so you won't have to share rooms with me anymore." Nick teased AJ but he suddenly stopped when he saw the pain in AJ's eyes. He knew AJ's thinking about her again. He forgot AJ almost proposed to her. Damn it! Nick silently cursed himself and immediately changed the topic. "You know, I still can't believe a place like this exists." Nick pretended to look around while slowly shaking his head. The five people in front of him gave him a curious look. Nick continued, "I mean, are you sure no one here knows about us? They won't recognize who we are? They have no idea how big we are? Is that really possible?" Nick stopped talking when he saw Brian and AJ frowned while Howie smiled and shook his head. "C'mon Brian. You know we're famous right, J?

"Whatever, Carter!" AJ rolled his eyes and started walking again. He knew his friend is just trying to change his mood. Nick is always like that. He would do anything and everything just to make them smile. Nick didn't say anything again. He knew AJ is ok now. They noticed the long wooden table and six wooden chairs in the porch when they reached the front door. Brian smiled and pointed at the table.

"That would be perfect for our daily meeting." Everyone nodded in agreement. Howie opened the front door and they all went in. They all looked around the house. There's a small living room in their right, a kitchen and a bathroom. Though everything was tidy, the house looked as though it hadn't been updated in years. The house is nothing compared to their elegant and big houses in LA and some other cities but they feel comfortable here. This is one of the rare moments where they can be just themselves.

"Daddy, I'm hungry," Baylee told his dad. Brian looked at his watch and surprised to see it was already three in the afternoon. They had their lunch four hours ago.

"Ok, baby," Brian said softly while he touched Baylee's cheeks. "Let's just get our bags inside our room and we'll find something to eat."

"I saw a diner down the street." Nick informed the group.

"Are you coming with us, Howie?" Brian asked Howie.

"Leigh?" Howie turned his wife.

"I'm a bit tired I want to rest first," she answered while touching her tummy.

"I'll just buy our food later you guys go ahead." Howie told Brian. "How about you, Alex? Are you going with them?" Howie asked AJ who is now lying in the couch.

"No. I'm not yet hungry and I want to take a nap. I'm tired too" AJ yawned and close his eyes.

"Ok, then let's go. Just a reminder, Bone. Jen said there is no McDonalds here." Nick laughed and walked towards the front door holding Baylee's hand. Leighanne and Brian followed them, holding hands too.



~~~



"This place looks good. Nice and cozy," Nick looked around the diner. To the left side are the counter and the two waitresses there were too busy to notice them. There are twelve tables and only two of them were occupied. Nick smiled when he smelled the aroma of coffee. He was about to choose a table when he noticed a cute little boy running towards him. He was wearing a white shirt and red shorts. He was holding 'The Flash' action figure on his left hand.

"Uncle Nicky!" Say what? Nick thought. The little boy was very excited. He hugged Nick so tight. Nick looked at the boy confused but before he can say anything, the little boy asked him so many questions "What are you doing here, Uncle Nicky? Are you having a concert here? Is dad with you?" Then the little boy noticed the Littrells behind Nick. He smiled wider. "Uncle Brian! Aunt Leighanne!" He hugged them both. Leighanne smiled and hugged back though she had no idea who this boy is. Brian stared at the little boy as if he met a friend he hadn't seen in years. "Hi Baylee! How are you doin'?"

"I'm fine. Thanks," Baylee answered with a smile

"Wait." Nick turned to the boy. "You know us?"

"Yes!" the boy replied with a smile.

"How?" Nick asked again.

"Because you are my godparents," the boy replied proudly.

"Your what?!" Nick asked, confused and surprised.

"Don't you recognize me, Uncle Nicky?" The boy asked softly, hurt. When Nick didn't answer, he turned to Brian as if asking for help. "Uncle Brian?"

"You look very familiar." Brian said finally. The boy's face lit up. "I think I've seen you before," the boy smiled at Brian.

"Aunt Ally," the boy called one of the waitresses in the counter. They all looked at the counter to see the person he was calling. Ally looked up when she heard the voice of her nephew and she was very shocked to see her nephew talking to Nick Carter and Brian Littrell. Oh my God! This isn't happening. She immediately runs towards them.

"Look who's here, Aunt Ally," the boy said in a very excited tone. "Daddy might be home right now. I gotta go tell mom," he looked at Brian and Nick and runs towards the door before Ally can say anything. She tried to follow him but he ran so fast. He was very excited with the thought of seeing his father for the first time. Ally shook her head knowing that her nephew's heart might be broken in a few minutes. She went back inside the diner and saw Nick. Brian, Leighanne and Baylee are still standing on the same spot where she left them.

"I'm sorry about that." Ally told Nick when she approached him. "Has he told you anything?" She asked them nervously.

"Well, he was just saying that we are his godparents and asking us if his dad is with us." Nick shrugged "Why did he say that anyway?"

"His mom is a big Backstreet fan. He grew up seeing your pictures around the house. Maybe he believed it when his mom told him once that you are his godparents," Ally explained without looking at them.

"I thought no one in this town knows about us." Nick looked at Brian.

"Don't worry. No one will recognize you here except for his mom and me." Ally explained.

"What about his dad?" Leighanne asked Ally. "He was asking us if his dad is with us." Leighanne tried to look Ally straight in the eye but Ally kept avoiding eye contact.

"I'm sorry. You must be starving. Would you like something to eat?" Ally asked them hoping to drop the subject. She ignored Leighanne's question because she didn't know what to say. She gave an apologetic smile to Leighanne.

"Yes, please," Nick answered. Ally led them to a table near the counter. She took their orders and went to the kitchen.

"Hey, Rok! What are you thinking? You look serious." Nick asked Brian while playing with the cheaply-laminated menu that looked as though they hadn't been replaced in years.

"That boy really looks familiar." Brian finally said.

"Baby, Ally looks familiar too. I think I've seen her in one of your concerts." Leighanne explained.

Brian looked at Leighanne. "Baby, have you seen his eyes? I think I've seen those eyes before. I just can't remember."

"So? Who do you think is his father? Howie or AJ?" Nick chuckled.

"That's it!" Brian snapped his fingers. Leighanne and Nick looked at him. "He looks like AJ. He has AJ's eyes." Brian breaks into smile while explaining.

"I kinda noticed it too. I was just not sure." Leighanne glanced over the counter. She saw Ally looking at them.

"Do you think he is AJ's son?" Nick asked seriously.

"We're not sure about that" Leighanne said

The food arrived a few minutes later and they continued their conversation as they ate. They were arguing about whether to tell AJ about the little boy. Brian said they are not sure if AJ was the father that little boy was asking about. It could be Howie or any guy related to the Backstreet Boy. It must be a coincidence that the little boy looks like AJ and they have the same eyes. Leighanne explained that the little boy must be referring to Howie or AJ because Ally said his mom is a Backstreet fan. She pointed out again that Ally looks familiar and she was sure she might have seen her before in one of the Boys' concert and if she was really a fan why didn't she freak out. When she saw Brian and Nick instead, Leighanne saw fear and anger in Ally's eyes. In the end, they all agreed to tell Howie and AJ about this. They have to know that there is a boy claiming one of them as his father just because his mom is their fan. They finished their food. After the bill arrived, Nick put some money on the table and motioned for them to leave.



~~~



"You've got to be kidding me," AJ said while slowly shaking his head. He can't believe the story Brian just told them. An innocent boy believes he or Howie could be his father. That is not fair. She must be a crazy fan and he wondered what does his real father thinks about this.

"He looks just like you, Alex." Nick told AJ.

"Is this one of your pranks, Nickolas? This is not funny." AJ warned Nick. The younger one looked at Leighanne for help.

"It's true, Alex. He really looks like a mini version of you." Leighanne explained.

"So? Does this mean, AJ is the father?" Howie asked and scratched his head. "Leigh won't talk to me until I prove to her that I don't have a illegitimate child." Leighanne laughed out loud and stood up.

"I'll talk to her, Howie," she went to the couple's room upstairs. The boys went on with their meeting. They have to come up with at least three songs for their next album. They only have two weeks for that and it was not an easy task though all of them are great songwriters. They were already working on their first song. They were sharing ideas on what song would be about when Leighanne and Leigh joined them. Leigh sat beside her husband and apologized. Howie kissed his wife on her forehead. They continued working on their first song. After an hour, Leighanne noticed it's time for dinner.

"Hey guys! What do you want for dinner?"

"Anything! Actually, I'm starving," AJ replied.

"Sorry to disappoint you guys but Leighanne and I are not in the mood to cook," Leigh told the guys. Leighanne laughed when she saw the looks in the men's faces. They looked like they've just been told that they didn't make it to the Grammy's.

"Any suggestion?" Leighanne asked laughing.

"Pizza..." Nick replied with a big smile on his face.

"Why am I not surprised with your suggestion?" AJ teased Nick. Nick shrugged.

"Maybe, because we have the same idea?" Nick laughed when AJ nodded.

"Pizza with lots of cheese and more cheese and more cheese," Brian added.

"I love cheese." Nick said while licking his lips.

"Ok. I'll go and buy pizza," Leighanne stood up and picked up her purse on the table.

"Baby, you don't have to. Let's just have it delivered here," Brian said in protest.

"Brian, the pizza parlor is just a couple of blocks away," Leighanne explained. "I'll just pick up the pizza myself, ok?" She kissed Brian on the cheeks and headed towards the front door.

"Be careful. I love you." Brian shouted before Leighanne closed the door.

"Ew! Rok! You're so corny." AJ teased Brian as he threw a pillow at him.

"What can I do? I'm in love." Brian answered, laughing. AJ threw another pillow at him. "Wait 'til you fall in love, Alex, and you'll know how it feels." Brian stopped laughing when he realized what he just said. He immediately looked at AJ and wished he could take back those damn words. AJ's smile faded slowly. He took the paper on the table and pretended he was reading the ideas that Howie and Nick just wrote. Brian saw the pain in AJ's eyes. He forgot that his friend already fell in love and is mending a broken heart. It's been four years but AJ can't forget her. Sure, Alex had lots of girlfriends after her but they all know he was pretending, living up to the image of being the biggest flirt of the group. But deep inside, He would love no one else but her.

"I'm sorry, J. I didn't mean to..." Alex cut him off.

"No harm done." AJ tried to smile.



~~~



Leighanne saw the little boy they met at the diner earlier occupying the table at the corner when she entered the pizza parlor. The little boy waved at her and she waves back. She went to the counter to place her order. While waiting for her turn, she saw a tall, petite, brown-haired woman holding two boxes of pizza approached the boy. It must be his mom, she thought, Leighanne wanted to see the woman's face but she was facing the opposite direction. Leighanne saw the little boy pointed at her and the woman slowly turned around to look at the direction the boy was pointing to, and their eyes met. Leighanne blinked twice... just to be sure she wasn't being fooled by her eyes. Oh my God, is all Leighanne could say as she walked towards the table.

"See, mom, I told you they are in town." The little boy looked up at the woman beside him.

"Rachel?" Leighanne whispered, unable to believe what she is seeing. Rachel slowly nodded. Her lips formed a half smile. It's been four years since they last saw each other.

"I wonder why dad isn't home yet." The little boy sounds like complaining.

"Alexis!" Rachel gave him a warning look. The boy pressed his lips together. Rachel looked at Leighanne. "Hi, Leighanne! How are you? It's been a while..." Rachel tried her best to keep a straight face though she wasn't ready to meet any of them yet. Ally had warned her that the boys and their wives are in town, but she wasn't expecting she would bump with one of them so soon. She was actually planning to leave the town while they are here.

"I'm good." Leighanne answered with a smile. She was now very excited to talk with an old friend. She missed her so much. "How are you?"

"I'm fine. By the way, this is my son, Alexis." Rachel placed her hand on Alexis' head. Leighanne looked at Alexis and smiled.

"Nice to meet you, Alexis. You didn't have the chance to tell us your name earlier at the diner."

"Aunt Leighanne, you've known me since I was a baby." Alexis tried to explain. "By the way, before I forget, I want to say thank you."

"For what?" Leighanne asked.

"For the gift you gave me last week for my birthday. It was the nicest car ever."

"I... we gave you a gift?" Leighanne asked confused. She looked at Rachel, asking for an explanation.

"You don't remember? The big blue car?" Rachel cut him off.

"Enough, Alexis," Rachel turned to Leighanne. "It was nice to meet you again, Leighanne. I missed you but we've got to be going now. My mom and my sister are waiting for these." Rachel pointed at the boxes of pizza on the table.

"Ok." Leighanne nodded and then she looked for a piece of paper in her purse, went to the counter to borrow a pen and scribbled down her mobile number. She went back to Rachel and Alexis and handed the small paper to Rachel "Please call me when you have time. Let's have coffee." She looked at her expectantly.

"Will do. See you around Leighanne." She kissed her on the cheeks.

"Bye, Aunt Leighanne." Alexis said. Leighanne leaned over to kiss him.

"Bye, Alexis. Bye, Rachel." She watched them as they went out of the pizza parlor. Leighanne sat down while waiting for the pizza she ordered. She called up Brian.



~~~



"What? Baby, are you sure?" Brian glanced over at AJ as he talks to his wife. AJ frowned when he saw the surprise… No, the shocked look on Brian's face. Brian held up his right hand, telling AJ to wait. He nodded and continued reading the materials on his hand. Brian talked to Leighanne for a couple of minutes more. He is already sitting beside AJ when he said goodbye to his wife. AJ looked at him waiting for the news that he is going to tell.

"Pizza will be here in a few minutes." Brian said, his voice sounded as optimistic as he could make it.

"Great! I'm starving." Nick answered without looking at Brian. He continued writing his ideas for the song they're going to write. AJ looked at Brian, raised his eyebrow. He knew that was not what Brian wanted to say.

"Leighanne met the boy at diner again. He was in the pizza parlor too." Brian started, studying AJ's reaction. "His name is Alexis and he was with his mother."

"Good. Did she apologize for making up that story about us and his son?" AJ asked as he picked up the pen from his lap and motioned to Nick to give him a piece of paper.

"No." Brian stopped to see AJ's reaction. AJ started to write his new ideas on the paper but he was still listening to Brian. When he realized that Brian stopped talking, he looked at him for a while as if encouraging him to go on. Brian took a deep breath.

"Alex, Alexis mother is... Rachel." Brian spoke the words carefully.

AJ froze for a moment. He felt like he'd just been hit in the stomach. He opened his mouth and tried to speak. His mouth went dry as he pressed his lips together. He simply stared at Brian in shock, and then buried his face on his hands. Nick and Howie are now standing in front of AJ. He saw the concerned look on their faces and then he looked at Brian again who is now hurting for him too.

"Rachel? She's here? How..." He trailed off. He was so shocked that he doesn't know what to ask and he wasn't even sure how much he wanted to know. Knowing that she's here in the same town is too much to handle. And now she has a son who thinks he could be his father. It confused him more. It's been four years but he is still hurting. He should be very excited because after four years, he found her but he's not sure if he's ready to face her or if he wanted to see her again.

AJ stood up excused himself and went out. Brian tried to follow AJ but Nick grabbed his arm and shook his head. He motioned to leave AJ alone, he needed space. AJ went to the convenience store across the street. He noticed the surprise look on the face of the cashier when he entered the store but he ignored it. He went on to pick up a pack of cigarette and two bottles of beer. He stared at the bottles for a moment although he knows that he shouldn't be buying any alcoholic beverages. He has no plans of drinking them but he felt like these could take the pain away and he could get some strength just by holding them. He stopped halfway through the counter. He tightly closed his eyes and tried not to think about her, but everything reminds him of her, even the damn bottles on his hand. He can't even remember when was the last time he touched a bottle of beer or any alcoholic beverages for that matter. She was the reason he's six years sober now. She helped him get through the darkest time of his life. When he went to rehab, she visited him almost every day. She was always there to support him. She never left his side. If it weren't for her, he might have been still drinking five bottles of beer a night or a bottle of hard liquor or maybe partying until four am every day.

But he changed for her. Even when they broke up four years ago - or did they really broke up? As far as he can remember, he woke up one morning finally having the courage to ask her if she could be his wife, if she wants to spend the rest of her life with him because he was so sure he wants to grow old with her. He loved her so much. He loved her more than anyone, even more than his life. He was even willing to give up his solo career just to be with her. He would have kneeled and begged each and every BSB fan to accept her, if necessary. But she was gone. All she left was a note saying not to look for her and she needed time and space. He found out she already resigned as the assistant of the Backstreet Boys' tour accountant. But of course, he can't just let her go. He looked for her. He went to every place where she could possibly be. He even wrote a letter to the fans asking them to inform him if ever they see her in their city. He was really desperate then.

"Excuse me. Are you going to buy those?" It took a moment before AJ realized that the cashier was talking to him. He handed the items to her and took out money from his wallet. "You're Alex Mclean, aren't you?" The woman asked again in a low voice. AJ stared at the woman for a while. Jen must be wrong in saying no one will recognize us here. AJ nodded and tried so hard to smile. This woman must be a fan and he knew what will happen next. She would ask for an autograph or maybe a picture of them together. He loves their fans. He felt like he owes them big time so even if he is not in the mood and actually hurting right now, he would still entertain her and do whatever that will make her happy. The woman smiled and gave him the items he bought plus his change. He was waiting for her to ask for an autograph or whatever, but she didn't. Instead, she said something that shocked him. "Welcome home Alex! Alexis must be very happy. Hope you'll stay here for good."

Say what? Shit! Things are getting more and more confusing. AJ wanted to ask the woman for some explanation. He wasn't even sure if he heard her right but the cashier is now attending to the woman behind him so he just smiled and started to walk away but he stopped when he heard his name. They were talking about him the customer asked the cashier if he was AJ Mclean and when she said yes, the woman smiled and said something about Alexis and Rachel being happy at last. He went out of the convenience store very confused. He immediately crossed the street. He can't wait to be home. He needs to think. He saw Brian waiting for him at the porch.

"You're better than that." Brian gestured towards the bottles he was holding.

"I know." AJ answered, shrugging. "Have no plans of drinking them, I just felt I should buy them." AJ put the bottles on the table and turned to Brian again. "Dammit, Brian. I don't know what the hell is happening in this town. First, Rachel lives in this town and she has a son who thinks I could be his father. And you know what, Rok? There are two women in that store," AJ pointed at the store across the street while his other hand is massaging his nape. "They know who I am. They know my name and you know what they said? 'Welcome home, Alex. Alexis must be very happy.'" AJ imitated the way the cashier said it to him.

"Really?" Brian couldn't believe it. "J, do you think you are Alexis' father?"

"I don't fucking know, Bri." AJ shook his head and lit one cigarette. "I have to do something," he finally said.

"What are you going to do?" Brian asked.

"I have to see Rachel." AJ spoke carefully.

"How?"

"I'll go to the pizza parlor. They might know where she lives."

"Hey." Brian tapped AJ's shoulder. "Why don't you sleep on it, bro, and see her tomorrow morning? You have a bad temper now."

"You think so?" He asked him in a low voice.

Brian nodded. "And I'll research where you can find her." Brian pointed to the two bottles on the table. "Better get rid of those before Nick sees them." He said laughing.

AJ laughed and put the bottles in the trash can. He will do what Brian just told him and he is hoping that everything will be fine tomorrow.



~~~



AJ is staring at Rachel for about ten minutes now. He couldn't believe that after four long years, he'd be able to see her pretty face again. She just got in to her office and AJ was having a coffee at a bakeshop across the street. He had been there for an hour. Brian kept his promise and managed to learn where he can find her. How did he do it? He has no idea. Though AJ is hurting and he's mad at her for leaving him, he was happy to know that she achieved everything that she wanted. She is now a certified public accountant and runs her own small office. She offers assistance to small businesses that needs help with their accounting and tax problems. Actually, according to Brian, every business in this town is her client. AJ stood up, tossed a couple of dollar bill in the table and then, went out of the bakeshop. He took a deep breath before crossing the street. It's time.

Rachel looked up from her laptop when she heard the door opened, and she was very surprised to see AJ standing in front of her table. She bit her lower lip when she realized nothing has changed. She is still very much in love with this man and it's killing her to see his beautiful eyes burned with anger and pain.

"Miss me?" He smiled sarcastically.

"What do you want?" She said and looked back at her laptop, pretending to continue working.

"It's been four years, honey, and that's all you're going to say?" he said with mockery.

"Look Alex -" He cut her off.

"It's AJ to you." He said with sarcasm. No, he is not going to make this easy to her.

"Fine! AJ, just tell me what you want then leave," She tried so hard to blink back the tears. He is not allowing her to call him Alex and it hurts like hell.

"Well, I'm not really sure. wWy don't we start on why did you leave me just like that?"

"It's been four years Alex, I mean AJ. I really don't think we still have to talk about it."

"I waited for you, dammit!" AJ pointed his finger on Rachel then he starts massaging his nape like he always does when they are fighting. "You told me you just needed fucking space and time then you would come back. I've been waiting for four fucking years and I gotta tell you, sweetheart, it ain't easy."

"C'mon, AJ," Rachel stood up and walked towards him. "We both know you had a lot of relationships after us so please spare me the lies."

"Damn, right! And thanks to me, they all have careers now." AJ started to laugh while he felt as if a tear will slide down his face. He controlled himself.

"What do you mean?" Rachel can't stand seeing Alex hurting, so she has to look in another direction.

"You see, Rachel, I had a deal with them. Just pretend to be my girlfriend and in return, I'd help them find a record deal."

"And why would you do that?" Rachel believed him. All his five ex-girlfriends are now famous singers. She is hurting so bad for him.

"Because I have to show the world that I have moved on even though until this very minute I haven't."

"I don't really understand why you are so mad when you were the one who pushed us away?"

"What the hell..."

"Daddy?" AJ stopped talking when he heard that little voice. Rachel closed her eyes. This is the moment her little boy has been waiting for. AJ looked at the door where Alexis is standing. He stared at the boy while he walks inside the office. His heart beat faster. What he feels towards this boy is unexplainable. Alexis hugged AJ. "You're finally home, daddy. It's so nice to see you."

AJ felt like he is going to cry. The feeling is overwhelming when he felt that touch from the boy who claimed him to be his father. He looked at Rachel, asking for a brief explanation. Rachel nodded slowly, confirming what Alexis has just said, that he is Alexis' father. Her eyes started to well with tears. AJ turned to Alexis, stared at him for a moment. His heart seemed to burst with overwhelming emotion. With a shaky hand, he touched Alexis face and he hugged him. AJ wanted to cry, for the sudden frustration that he wasn't there when Alexis was born, when he had his first birthday - for all those times that he wasn't there for his son.

"Why are you crying, Daddy? Did I do something wrong?" He asked worried.

AJ felt the tears flow. "No, baby," He let go of Alexis and wiped his tears with the back of his hand. "Daddy is just so happy to see you."

"Me too, Dad! I missed you so much!" Alexis said with a big smile "Let's celebrate, Daddy. I want an ice cream."

"Sure, buddy. Let's go."

"Mom?" Alexis turned to Rachel. Alex looked at her, hoping she would not come and spoil his time with Alexis.

"Sorry, honey. Mommy is kinda busy right now. I'll catch up with you guys later." She tried to smile and pretend everything is fine between her and Alex.

"Ok. Bye, Mom." Rachel leaned over to kiss Alexis. Then AJ carried Alexis and they went out of the office, without a word or even looking back to her. She cried. She saw the anger and pain in AJ's eyes when the truth came to him. She could not blame him. He was surprised.

Rachel walked back to her table and sat in her swivel chair. She has been crying for twenty minutes but it felt like an eternity. Her eyes are swollen now, make up smeared. She looked at Alexis' picture on the left side of her table. It was taken a year ago. She touched the picture frame and smiled. Her son's wish has finally come true, to be with his father. He has waited for so long and he deserves to be happy. But would it be possible? For them to be happy? AJ would have to leave sooner. The boys will probably start making a new album and will go on another tour. He is still an artist after all. What will happen to Alexis? It would break his heart to see his father go again but she would never allow AJ to bring Alexis with him on tour and expose him in his crazy life. They aren't a family. How would she tell Alexis that without hurting him? For the first time, she regret making up those lies. Her plan has back fired. Her smile faded and started crying again. She almost jumped out of her chair when she heard someone cleared his throat. She didn't hear the door opened. She looked up and saw Nick smiling. He was rather amused.

"Last time I checked you weren't crazy yet, baby girl."

"Nicky!" She ran towards him and hugged him.

"Hey! You don't have to shout." He laughed and hugged her back. "So AJ's been here, huh?" He asked in a low voice while stroking her hair. Rachel nodded and cried harder. She feels safe now. Her big brother is here. "Easy, sweetheart." Rachel hugged him tighter. Nick let go of her, looked at her while wiping her tears. "Fix yourself angel. Brian and Leighanne will be here in a few minutes. I don't want them to see you like that."

"I'm not your angel anymore." She slowly shook her head.

"Yes, you are. You'll always be."

"Aren't you mad at me for leaving you guys without saying goodbye?"

"No!" He shook his head and wrapped his arms around her. "I know there must be reasons. You just have to do what you have to do."

"You do? You know the truth?

"No, angel, but I know you love AJ so much. You love us so much that you wouldn't leave us for no reason at all. I knew time will come that we will finally understand you and I believe that time is right now. So go ahead and fix yourself." He was laughing while she went to the rest room to fix herself.

Brian and Leighanne are already sitting in the couch when she got back. Brian stared at her and with one look. He knew she'd been crying. He stood up and hugged her.

"What happened?" He asked with so much care with his voice. Rachel couldn't answer right away. She felt really stupid to let this people down. They were the nicest people she knew and leaving them without explaining about it was a bad move. But she has her reasons.

"Where's Nick?" She asked instead.

"He went to the bakeshop." Leighanne pointed at the bakeshop across the street. "He said he's hungry."

"He's always hungry." Brian complained. They waited for a while, savoring the moment of unexpected reunion. The couple only sits there, looking at Rachel. She, on the other hand, didn't know what to do. She didn't know what to say. Nick went back with a box of chocolate cake and cans of soda. She stood up to prepare food, slice the cake, put in the plate and handed one to each of them.

"So let's get this over with." Nick finally said after having a bite.

"Get over what?" Rachel asked.

"Well, we wanna know what happened. Why did you left four years ago and why you didn't come back." Brian said.

Rachel stared at the cake she was holding for a moment. She knows that these guys are only trying to help her, not invading her privacy or whatsoever. They all know how stubborn AJ can be and if she wants to fix their problem, she needs all the help she can get from these guys, the people she learned to look up to as brothers. She used to work for them. She was the assistant of the Boys' tour accountant. She was their huge fan. That was the reason why she enjoyed her job so much. Nick was like her big brother.

It all started when they had lunch together at one of the hotels they stayed in. Nick had his lunch earlier than the other boys and she met him at a restaurant. He recognized her and asked if he could share the table with her. She said yes and their friendship began. She reminded him of Leslie. They were almost of the same age. Nick did things to her that he couldn't do to Leslie anymore. His sister got married on the year they met and Leslie now lives in Canada with her husband. Nick's busy work schedule prevented him from seeing his sister and the only chance would be every time that the Backstreet Boys have a concert in Canada. He missed Leslie a lot so he feels like he's taking care of her when he is taking care of Rachel.

Then there's Brian. She got close to him through Nick. He is like a big brother to her too, always protecting her. She was their little angel. She remembered how AJ was compelled to ask their permission first before he could take her out. Her lips formed a half smile.

"I had to leave so AJ can continue working on his solo album, at least that's what Heather said to me." She was looking at Nick when she said that and then, she turned to Brian. "I came back two weeks after… in your Atlanta concert."

"What does Heather had to do with this?" Nick asked frowning. He looked at Brian. Heather is their tour manager. Jen is only her assistant. She can be a bitch sometimes and they are all aware that she has a thing for AJ.

"And you came back?" Brian asked, pertaining to her story.

"Heather talked to me two days before I left. She said AJ has to record two more songs and he's done with his album. They were already planning for the release and the promotional tour. She said Alex was very excited and can't wait for the release of his album. She showed dozens of letter from AJ's fans club worldwide. There were a lot of things they said against me. They don't want me for AJ because I was not famous, beautiful, etc. I was just a girl working for the Backstreet Boys. They want someone better than me for AJ." She paused for a moment. She felt like her heart was breaking into pieces again.

"That's why you left? Because AJ's fans don't approve of you?" Brian exclaimed aloud, sounding angry. That's ridiculous. Their fans would always understand, well if not always but for most of the time that the Backstreet Boys would try to show that they are happy with their relationships. Leighanne reached for Brian's hand and squeezed it gently. He turned to his wife. She slowly shook her head. "I'm sorry," Brian finally said and sighed.

"There were threats on those letters, too. They said they won't support AJ's solo album and career unless he broke up with me and find another girlfriend." She looked down on the plate she was holding.

"What?! That's impossible." Nick stood up.

"Please sit down." Rachel told Nick. She knew him. He has to calm down or he would be running back to their house and call Heather right away. He's always defending her, even from AJ. Nick sighed heavily and sat down. Rachel continued, "Heather begged me. She said, we only have to pretend that AJ and I already broke up until the promotional tour is over then we can get back together again. It sounded so easy so I agreed. It's just a couple of months. I had to make some sacrifice for AJ. I know how important that album is for AJ. I won't just sit around and watch AJ's dreams fade away right before his eyes just because of me. But there was a problem. We can't tell AJ because he won't agree to the plan." Rachel stopped when she saw the three of them nodding.

"He'd rather lose his dreams than to lose you." Leighanne said. "But don't you think that you're being unfair? You're not the only one who should decide on it. A relationship should be a two-way commitment."

"I had to make those lies, and that I needed some time and space to think about our relationship. I had to resign too so we won't have communication at all. I had to hurt him so he'll continue making his dreams come true." She turned to Brian. "Two weeks after I left, I found out I was two months pregnant. I decided AJ has to know. To hell with everything, I have to tell him. I lost my mobile phone that night I left the hotel. I needed a phone that I sold my laptop so I can also have extra money when I come home, so I don't know any of your phone numbers or e-mail address so I have to do it personally. I went to your Atlanta concert."

"Angel, we didn't know about that." Nick sit beside Rachel and put his arms around her shoulder.

"You can ask Q, he was there. He was the one assigned at the gate of the backstage. Of course, he couldn't let me in because I didn't have any backstage pass so, I asked him if he could just send someone to tell AJ I was there and I wanted to talk to him. Heather passed by. I don't trust her but the show was about to start in ten or fifteen minutes so I asked her if she could tell AJ. She came back after few minutes and said AJ doesn't want to see me and he doesn't want to talk to me and wanted me to go. I completely understand what AJ feels and why he doesn't want to see me anymore. I told Q it was really important. So Q handed me a piece of paper and pen from his pocket. He told me to write down my message and he'd give it to AJ." She stopped and looked at Nick. Her eyes are starting to well with tears again. Nick smiled a bit and encouraging her to go on. "After a few minutes, just when the show was about to start, I received a text message on my new phone. I wrote down my number on that note. It was from AJ." She reached for her phone in her pocket, looked for that message in her inbox and handed it to Nick.

I don't want to fucking see you ever again. And I don't believe that child is mine or if you are really pregnant. Get the hell out of my life!!!

Nick handed the phone to Brian and Leighanne. He turned to Rachel, wiped her tears and kissed her forehead.

"Angel, AJ will never say those things to you. He loves you so much."

"I didn't believe it at first either, so I asked Q if that was AJ's number. Q checked it on his phone twice. It was his number. It was from him." She was trying so hard not to break down.

"Why didn't you look for us? We might have helped you." Brian said while returning the phone to her.

"The show started after that. I was hurting so bad so I just left. Now I don't understand AJ and why he was so mad at me."

"Angel, I don't think AJ knew anything about what happened in Atlanta that night you came back. For four years, he did nothing but looked for you."

"That's why he's mad. Because you left him four years ago. I hate to say this but it might be worst now because he realized that he has a son and he thinks that you kept Alexis from him." Brian explained.

"But don't worry. Everything will be alright. We can fix this one. We will help you."



~~~



It's been a long day for Rachel. She was thankful that Nick, Brian and Leighanne were there to listen to her and make her feel fine. She was looking for her key in her bag when she noticed that the front door was open. She took a mental note to remind Ally to lock the door always. She went inside the house and surprised to see AJ in the living room, sitting comfortably in the couch, having coffee. He called earlier to tell her that he will take Alexis home himself. She looked at her wristwatch. It's nine in the evening. Why is he still here?

"What are you doing here?" She asked him.

"Good evening to you, too," He took a sip from his coffee and stood up. "Ally called and said she'd be doing double shift in the diner. I already prepared dinner and tucked in Alexis. I was just waiting for you before locking the door."

Waiting for you... Had they been in a normal situation, her heart must have jumped out of joy. Waiting like a husband, she fantasized then stopped herself.

"You don't have to wait for me. I have my own key," she said trying to control her emotions. She wanted to run to him and hugged him tight. She missed him so much.

"I wasn't so sure about that. Or rather, I couldn't leave Alexis alone here. As far as I'm concerned, I'm his father. Now, have your dinner. Good night." He said and walked towards the stairs.

"Hey! Where do you think you're going? The exit door is in your right," She panicked when she saw him about to climb the stairs.

"To our room," He said with a wicked grin. "Didn't you tell Alexis we are a family? So he thinks I live here too. Don't worry. I already picked up all my stuff."

"No!" she protested.

"Look, I am not forcing you to sleep with me, okay? I just have to be here when my son wakes up. Understand?" Rachel nodded, she can't argue with him especially when he gave her an authoritative look. Back then, she knew when to shut up when he becomes commanding. It's not that he's been a dictator in the relationship, but most of the time he would do that just to protect her. She always thought that he knew better. He cared a lot for her.

"I'll sleep in the guest room in case you need anything." She finally said and regretted saying it when she saw AJ's teasing smile. Damn!

Rachel had her dinner. AJ cooked macaroni and cheese, the B-rok way. Leighanne used to teach them both how to cook. After eating, she decided to call it a night. It's been a long day after all. All she needs right now is a hot bath and a good night sleep. She was thinking if she will talk to AJ. He seems to be calm now.

Nick advised her to talk to AJ about what happened. AJ has to know the truth. She is not expecting that they will get back together again and becomes a family. Although she would love that, it won't be easy. It's been four years; she is not sure about AJ's feelings anymore. Yes, he still keeps on looking for her but now that he has found her, he showed her nothing but hatred. All she wants from AJ now is, at least, his friendship, for Alexis' sake. She went upstairs but before going to the guest room, she decided to check on Alexis first. She was about to take the knob when the door opened and AJ comes out of Alexis' room. His eyes are red. She knew he'd been crying. It was rare to see him that way.

"Alex..." She stopped when he glared at her. "I mean AJ... Do you want to talk about it?"

He shook his head while wiping his tears. "No! At least not with you," He walked past her.

"I think we need to talk. We can't go on like this." He turned to her with so much anger and pain in his eyes. She looked down. She couldn't stand looking at him.

"Don't you think we're better off like this, just civil to each other?" He asked slowly but full of anger. Rachel couldn't answer, it just hurts so much. AJ went to his room. He wasn't in a mood for a fight. He had enough of it for this day. Rachel stood there for a while and decided to follow AJ. They need to talk.

AJ was sitting at the bed when she entered the room. When she cleared her throat, AJ looked up.

"What the hell do you still want from me? I said I don't want to talk."

"AJ, we need to talk, at least for Alexis."

"Okay!" AJ held up both hands, as if he surrenders. "You want to talk about Alexis, fine! I'm going to file for custody on court. He is my son, I have rights over him."

"I knew you'd do that, but it doesn't have to come to that. You have all the parental rights over Alexis. You can visit him anytime you want. We can have some arrangements."

"So now you are aware of my parental rights. I'm glad you realized that now after keeping him from me for over three years." He said with sarcasm.

"I didn't keep him from you!"

"Stop making lies, Rachel. You've done so much damage now. Don't try doing more."

"I am not lying. I did not keep your son from you." She said with a loud voice, ready for a big fight. AJ tossed his phone in the bed and stood up. He took a few step towards Rachel.

"Then what did you do? You didn't tell me about him. Didn't tell me you were pregnant. You just walked away from me like that. Did you know how much that hurts?" He stopped, obviously trying so hard not to break down. His face is red with a mixture of emotions that he probably kept to himself for the whole day. "You have no idea how I envy Brian for having Baylee. You don't know how many times I wished I could be a father too while holding Baylee in my arms, thinking if I could have my own son or daughter while playing with Baylee. Then after four years, I will find out that I have a three year old son. Did you know how much that hurts?" AJ looked to the other side of the room, controlling his anger then looked at Rachel again, pointed his finger at her. "You stole my chance of being a father. I should have been there when he was born. You took away my chance of staying up late at night to change his diaper, prepare his milk and feed him, sing him lullabies. You stole my chance of seeing his first smile, hear his first laugh, see him took his first step, hear him say daddy for the first time..." He trailed off. He stared down at her. His hard voice is evidence enough on how he managed to control his anger, his disappointments and frustrations.

Rachel tried to comfort AJ but he held up his right hand, telling her to stop. She's also crying now. It's killing her to see the man she loves so much hurting like hell. She wanted to trade places with him so he won't feel the pain anymore. It hurts to see AJ's heart breaking into million pieces and she can't do anything, she can't even hug him and say everything will be fine. She knows that it was her fault too. If she should have tried enough, he could have known about Alexis. But she was too hurt and afraid that she chose to stay away. She slid herself down on the floor as she break down and cry. AJ sat on the edge of the bed, his hands on his face. Both of them were crying. This is the moment where they are going to let it all out. Now is the chance.

"I missed three years of my son's life..." AJ continued, "I should have been there on his birthdays, Thanksgivings, Christmases and all the time my son needs his father. Baylee needed Brian all the time and it hurts me to think my son always needed me but I wasn't there... it hurts so much." He looked at her. He took a deep breath. "But you know I should thank you for making up those lies, for writing those letters and sending those gifts. My son doesn't hate me. He just thinks that I have to work for his future... He waited for me for so long." AJ bit his lower lip as if in pain. "My son patiently waited for me."

Silence overwhelmed the room. Rachel didn't say anything. She stopped crying now but she still ached to touch him and soothe his sorrows away. She felt him moved. AJ wiped his tears, stood up, took his wallet and phone from the bed and walked towards the door. He turned and looked at her, who is still sitting at the floor, before he went out of the room.

"Please tell Alexis that I just have to pick up some more stuff. I'll pick him up at your office tomorrow." He said then closed the door. He will go back to the house he's staying at. He needed someone to talk to. He still loves Rachel very much, but he hates her too. He hates her for keeping Alexis from him. He missed out so many things on his son's life because of Rachel. He doesn't know what to do. He needs to talk to Brian to enlighten him. He needs his brothers.

Rachel stood up from the floor and sat at the bed. She can't blame AJ, he's hurting right now. He thought she kept Alexis from him. He thinks she did that intentionally. It's very painful to think that the man who loves you so much before doesn't feel anything for you now but hatred. It's just a consolation that he thinks making up those lies was a good idea. Alexis asked about his father when he was two years old. She told him that his father was working. He knew his father was a part of the Backstreet Boys and they are doing a world tour. She told him it would really take some time to finish that tour and he understood. She talked to David, Ally's boyfriend who lives in Nashville to write a letter for Alexis every two weeks, and pretend he is AJ. Since Alexis can't read yet, this thing worked for them. Alexis get so excited every time they received a letter. Every month, she would wrap a gift and tell Alexis it was from his father, and she would wrap four more gifts for his birthday and Christmas and tell him it was from his godparents. That was the reason why he knew Nick, Brian and Leighanne. She was planning to tell Alexis the truth when he is old enough to understand things but that won't come anymore. His father is here now. If only things will get better between her and AJ. She is hurting for his son. She doesn't want him to go through hardships. She only wished AJ won't pursue with that custody case. She knows Alexis will get hurt. She didn't know how to take it if AJ will try to take her son away from her. AJ needs to know the truth and he had to stop judging her. She didn't do anything to hurt anyone. She only wanted the best for her son and the father of her son. She went to get the phone. She called up Leighanne.



~~~



AJ knocked on the front door. It was Leighanne who opened the door. She just spoke with Rachel and she knew what happened. She hugged AJ. He hugged back and tapped her back, telling her it was okay. She let go of him and closed the door. AJ went straight to the stairs then he stopped when he heard Nick's voice.

"Don't you want to talk about it? Are you running away from the truth?" AJ turned around and looked at Nick. His face was so tired.

"Drop it, Carter! I'm not in the mood for your games."

"You love Rachel so much and you're just wasting your chance to be with her. What happened to you, man?" Leighanne put a caring hand on Nick's arm, trying to pacify the younger man's frustration on what is happening.

"I love her still. It will never change but things are complicated, Nickolas, so stop messing with me." He took a step to be closer to Nick, looking like he's ready to fight him if necessary.

"Alex!" Howie called. In this kind of situation Howie knows AJ needs him.

"What? Make this kid stop. He doesn't know what he is saying." AJ told Howie then he walked towards the stairs.

"Why don't you make me understand?" Nick shouted again before AJ can climb the stairs. He turned around again, furious. He pulled away from Leighanne.

AJ turned around again. He glared at Nick. "You wanna know? That woman kept my son from me for three years... You have no idea how painful that is, so shut the hell up! Stop defending her even just once!"

"Why don't you try and listen to what she wanted to tell you. AJ, you have to know the truth. She did not keep Alexis from you. She tried to tell you."

"Okay." AJ crossed his arms on his chest. "Let's hear what you got, another set of lies." AJ folded his arms across his chest and waited for him. Nick began telling him everything that Rachel told them, and the also the details Q gave when Brian called him up earlier. AJ couldn't believe what he heard. His jaws clenched.

"It's been a tough day for you, J. Why don't you give it a rest? I promise we'll fix this tomorrow. I will do everything I can." Brian told AJ thoughtfully. AJ heard the same line from Brian last night and got results on the following day. He believed his friend. He nodded. He looked at everyone and motioned that he'd go upstairs to sleep.

"We'll be just right here if you need anything." Nick said calmly now as AJ climb the stairs. The tension has now disappeared. All they needed was communication and it always worked among them. AJ nodded again without looking back. Everyone called it a night too and headed to their room.

AJ felt better with Brian's promise. Sleep sunk in as soon as his back felt the softness of his bed.



~~~



AJ tried to open his eyes. They are still a bit swollen from crying last night. He felt someone is waking him up. He saw Leighanne and Leigh by his bedside. Ah, the two Leighs. He always wondered what came in to Brian and Howie's mind to marry a woman with almost the same namesake. It was a secret amusement that always makes him wonder.

"Morning, Ladies" He said while checking if he's wearing a decent cloth or if he's wearing something at all.

"Brian doesn't want us to wake you up." Leighanne started.

"They all think that you need more rest." Leigh added and looked at Leighanne, telling her to say the rest. With that kind of manner, they could be mistaken as twins who could read each other's mind, AJ thought with amusement. He sat up.

"But we heard Heather will be here in around fifteen to twenty minutes. You might wanna hear what she is going to say." AJ looked at Leighanne in surprise. "Husband called her last night and wanted her to be here ASAP." She continued explaining. AJ buried his face on his hands. This one's going to be another one long day! They only planned a short vacation and a little time to write new songs for the album. Nobody expected about something like this to happen. He had to finish this soon, for the sake of his group and for Rachel's sake and his son's. He stood up.

"Thanks. You are the best." AJ said and went to the bathroom to take a shower. The two women went downstairs and continue cooking their lunch. Brian went to the kitchen.

"You two woke him up, didn't you?" Brian asked. Leighanne and Leigh stopped working, looked at each other, then turned to Brian. They looked at him as if they have no idea what he is talking about. Sometimes, he's amused by what their wives can do together but not now. "C'mon, don't play games with me, baby."

"He has to hear whatever that stupid manager of yours will say. He is the victim here." Leighanne answered. Leigh continued on cutting the vegetables.

"He's been hurt enough. Alex can only take so much. I don't want him to go through what he's gone through before." Brian tried to reason out.

"I believe he has to be there when you talk to that... that... that woman!"

"I thought you're gonna say something bad... You really are amazing, baby." Brian was laughing now. "But you will take full responsibility for whatever happens to Alex."

"Fine!" Leighanne nodded. They both looked at the front door when they heard a car coming. The three of them went to the living room. Nick and Howie are already there.

The front door opened and Heather went inside. She was with Jen, the assistant tour manager.

"This one's better be good, Brian. You have no idea what I've been through just to be here." Heather said while walking towards the couch. Brian waited for her to be seated before he started talking.

"We -" Brian was cut off by AJ. He just got in to the living room and he is not happy to see Heather.

"How could you do that to me? I thought you were a friend?"

Heather frowned. "What are you talking about?"

"Rachel..."

"What about Rachel? Have you found her?" She asked, not looking straight into AJ's eyes.

"Yes! And she told us the truth." Nick answered when he saw AJ was trying so hard to control his anger.

"I see. So you already know she really didn't love you, that's why she left you." Heather laughed,

"You son of a bitch!" Brian stood up fast enough to stop AJ from hitting Heather.

"Hey!" Brian turned AJ around. "What the hell is happening to you?" Whatever the circumstances have been, Heather is still a woman. But he couldn't blame AJ for being this angry.

"I did you a favor, Alex. You should be thanking me. I did what was best for you." Heather said while she stood up.

"You made my life miserable," AJ whispered under his breath. Brian was still holding his arms. Heather laughed again, full of sarcasm.

"C'mon, Alex. You wanted that solo album so bad. I made that possible." She grinned at him. "You became successful when she left you."

"You're lying about that!" Leighanne stood up. She ignored Brian's warning look. "Alex will still be successful even when they are together. BSB fans loves Rachel. You made up those letters. You made Rachel believed all your stupid lies!"

"Oh, sweetheart." Heather gave Leighanne a smile that made her more furious. "You are lucky BSB fans accepted you and loved you otherwise I'll get rid of you too if I had to." She grinned.

"You are lucky too. I am not a violent person." Leighanne said then pressed her lips together. Brian let go of AJ's arms and went to Leighanne. He wrapped his arms around her. Everyone can see the anger in Brian's eyes but they know he won't do anything to Heather, instead the couple said a short prayer.

"Why did you do that to me, Heather?" AJ asked in a low voice. For so many years he trusted her. He thought she really was a friend.

"I told you I did what was best for you..."

"Rachel was the best thing that happened to me. I thought you knew that."

"There was never a day you didn't tell me that. I was sick and tired of hearing how much you loved her, Alex. She left you but you still love her. She doesn't care about you!"

"That's not true! You made her leave me. Why, Heather? Why?"

"You wanna know why? Coz I love you, damn it!" Heather is trying to stop her tears from falling. "I've been loving you for eight years, Alex, but no matter what I do, you never noticed me and then she came and all of a sudden you were in love..." Heather paused for a moment. "I had to do those things Alex. I thought when she's gone, you would finally notice me but that never happened."

Alex was too shocked to speak, Heather wiped her tears and took her bag from the couch. She looked at everyone before she walked towards the door. "I hope you can find a new tour manager in two weeks time 'cos I quit! I've had enough of this!" Heather opened the front door but before she stepped out, she turned and look at Alex. "If it's true that I made your life and Rachel's miserable then I am happy. Now we're even." Heather closed the door and walked to her car.

Jen was about to follow Heather when Howie stopped her. "We need a tour manager, Jen. We need you." Howie smiled a bit.

"Are you serious?" Jen couldn't believe it.

"I think we are." Brian supported Howie's decision. He laughed when he saw the happiness on Jen's face.

"I think you've just been promoted honey. Congratulations!" Nick tapped Jen's shoulder. She smiled at them and said her never ending thank yous.

AJ excused himself from the celebration. He remembered his promise to Alexis that he will pick him up for breakfast. He immediately changed his clothes and went to Rachel's office. On the way to the office, he was thinking how to approach her now that he knows the truth. He was hoping Rachel would make this easy for him. He knocked on the front door when he reached her office. She was talking to someone on the phone and just motioned for him to come in. He sat down on the couch while looking around for Alexis. Rachel talked on the phone for about five minutes and AJ patiently waited for her to finish.

"Sorry, that was an important client." Rachel told him as she pointed on the phone. He only nodded, telling her it was ok. "You must be looking for Alexis. He went home forty-five minutes ago after waiting for you for four hours."

"I'm sorry. I meant to pick him up on time but something important came up." Rachel looked up and stared at him. She wanted to ask him what was more important than their son, but she chose to keep quiet. After all, she has decided that maybe AJ was right. They are better off like this, just civil to each other and just wait if they will ever be friends again.

"Alexis is still waiting for you. He haven't had his breakfast yet. He insisted he will wait for you and you would come. Don't worry. I made him drink his milk and eat a slice of bread." Rachel is talking in a very calm and low voice, showing no emotions at all.

"In that case, it will be better if I go." AJ said while pointing at the front door. Rachel nodded. After an hour, she received a call from Leighanne who told her about the confrontation with Heather. Now that AJ knows the truth, she was thinking if he will change the way he treats her. She was hoping so bad.

Rachel received a call from Alexis around 4pm. She was surprised with that gesture because Alexis never called her. He would go straight to her office if he wants to say something.

"Hi mom! I'm at the diner with Daddy. He wants to ask you if you want to join us for dinner." Alexis asked Rachel while smiling at AJ in front of him. AJ gave him a thumbs up.

"I am so sorry baby. I'll be working overtime but you can have dinner with your dad. And please ask Aunt Ally to bring me something for dinner when she comes home, okay?" Rachel was silently wishing Alexis would just agree with her and won't ask so many questions.

"But Mom, Dad wants you here." Alexis looked at AJ, as if asking his father if he said the right words. AJ nodded in approval.

"Some other time, sweetie. Mommy is doing something important."

"Mom, you always stop working just to have dinner or lunch with me. Why can't you do that now?" Her son is not going to make this easy for her.

"Because Mommy doesn't want you to eat alone but Daddy is there with you, you will be fine, hun."

"Okay. See you later Mom. I love you." Rachel smiled when she heard her son surrendered.

"I love you too son, more than anyone can love you. Mwah! Be safe okay?" She put down the phone and started working. She feels guilty about lying to her son. She can leave the office anytime. She is not doing anything important. She was just afraid of being with AJ and Alexis at the same place. She is not sure on how AJ would treat her in front of their son. She thought maybe AJ was right when he said it would be better if they will just act civil to each other, rather than be enemies. They definitely cannot be friends at this point unless AJ would realize she has done nothing wrong, or maybe she did. She believed Heather's lies. She lost her faith on AJ. But she has already paid for that, hasn't she?

She sighed heavily and focused her attention to her work. She has to work for another two hours just to let time pass by and maybe AJ and Alexis are home by then.



~~~



Rachel opened her eyes and shut them again when she felt the terrible pain on her head. After a few seconds, she opened her eyes again and looked at the clock on her bedside table, it read 9 am. Damn! It's late!. She regretted having two bottles of beer and staying up so late last night. She sat up and massaged her forehead, then decided to take a shower. It's already 10 am when she finished getting dressed. She went out of her room and decided to check on Alexis first before going downstairs. Alexis wasn't on his room anymore. He must be already playing outside or maybe AJ has picked him up. She was hurt by that thought. She was wondering why Alexis didn't wake him up before leaving the house. She smelled her favourite breakfast while climbing down the stairs. Someone is cooking at the kitchen. Ally should have left two hours ago so she was wondering who was at her kitchen. She walked faster towards the kitchen and was greeted by a gorgeous man with the sweetest smile.

"Hey! Good morning." AJ said while putting the plate with bacon and eggs at the dining table.

"Morning, Mom! Daddy cooked your favourite breakfast." Alexis stood up from his chair, took her hand and led her to one of chairs.

"Good morning, baby! How was your sleep?" Rachel asked her son while throwing sideway glances to AJ, who keeps on smiling. She has no idea why! "Fine. Daddy slept beside me. Sorry for taking him from you, Mom. Don't worry. He is yours tonight." Alexis grinned. AJ burst out laughing. Rachel threw AJ an angry look.

"Hey! I didn't teach him that." AJ held up his both hands in surrender. "C'mon. Sit down, you two. Let's have our breakfast."

"I should-" Rachel was pointing at the door but AJ did not let her finish what she was going to say. He cut her off.

"Please don't tell me you're leaving without having breakfast yet." AJ's beautiful brown eyes are pleading. How can she resist that? She just nodded and started her breakfast quietly. She doesn't have to worry about Alexis. AJ is taking care of his breakfast, serving him like a king. She smiled while watching the two most special men in her life. She wished this was real and won't have to end. They were laughing while eating and she would smile once in a while when they were looking at her. She noticed AJ whispered something to Alexis and the boy smiled wider, his eyes lit up.

"Mom, Uncle Nicky promised me that he will be here with Baylee and we would play video games all day. I am so excited. I can beat Uncle Nicky this time." He said with so much confidence that made Rachel laughed.

"I bet you can" She said still smiling. Alexis kissed her.

"I'll be on my room, Mom. Please tell Uncle Nicky that." He turned around and blew AJ a kiss who is now preparing to wash the dishes then ran towards the stairs. Rachel stood up and brought her plate to the sink.

"I'll take care of the dishes. You might want to join your son in his room." She asked AJ while looking down on her feet.

"Nah! I'd be happy to do this." He said then took the plate from her hands. Rachel sighed and turned around. She started to walk away from him then stopped when she heard him call her name. She turned to him and raised her right eyebrow. "Can we talk?" He asked in a low voice, almost whispering.

"About what? I mean, of course, it's about Alexis but what about him, in specific?" She paused for a moment when she saw him staring at her, trying so hard to make an eye contact.

"I want to talk about us, Rachel." He said while taking a step closer to her. She took one step backward.

"I thought there is nothing to talk about AJ, and I agreed with you on that." She took a deep breath before she spoke again. "You still have a week with Alexis and before you go, we will talk about some arrangements. You can visit him here anytime but there is no way I would let him tour with you and ruin his quiet and peaceful life here." She is really trying to avoid eye contact. She won't let her self drown on his beautiful brown eyes. She has to be strong.

"Rachel...—" She cut him off.

"AJ, I don't know why all of a sudden you've changed. I can still hear all the painful things you have told me the other night on my head. And now you're acting as if nothing happened. Where is the anger you've been showing me since you got here?" She held up her right hand when AJ opened his mouth and tried to answer. "I know it's been four years. We've been through so much pain. You have no idea how much I suffered when I left Atlanta that night and I know you suffered too. Our life has been miserable since the night I left. I kept saying it was not my fault that you were hurting right now, but I was just fooling myself because it was. I believed Heather's lies, I did not trust you enough and made my own decision thinking it's for your own good, but it wasn't. It ruined our beautiful life together. And that night I came back to tell you I was pregnant."

She stopped and reached for her phone in her pocket, looked for that message again and handed the phone to AJ. He read it. Confusion, anger and pain were written all over his face. He looked at her and she slowly nodded while tears flowing from her eyes. "Yes. I was stupid enough to believed it was from you. I lost my faith and trust in you, AJ. That's why after that night, I stopped trying to communicate with you. So maybe you were right when you said I kept Alexis from you. I should have tried again after that night or I should have waited for the concert to be over and talk to Nick, Brian or Leighanne for help. Or I should have waited for you and personally tell you the good news." She paused for a moment and tried to compose herself again. She went to get a tissue from the kitchen counter, wiped her tears and turned to AJ again. "I think we have to give each other some space and let's talk again when we're both okay."

"Rachel, I didn't know who sent this text message to you." He started before giving the phone back to her. "It might be Heather or anyone else but me. I won't say those things to you. Never." He wanted to say how much he loves her but she was right, they have been hurting each other for the past few days. She won't believe it now after all the things he has told her, but he never stopped loving her even for one second.

"I know. I am really stupid to realize that after four years." She laughed to mock herself. "There were times I wanted to see you again and tell you about Alexis, especially on special occasions. I should have done that but this text message is stopping me from doing so. I keep reading this text message until I convinced myself not to see you because you don't want to see me. Pathetic, isn't it?"

"If I say I've forgiven you, would you believe me?" AJ asked her seriously.

"Let me forgive myself first." She tried to smile at him, then walked towards the front door. She heard AJ cried and it broke her heart.

Rachel was about to get in her car when she saw Nick and Baylee approaching the house. She closed her car's door and waited for them.

"Hi angel! I thought you already left." Nick greeted her before kissing her cheek. Rachel smiled.

"I can't believe this! You don't want to see me now?" Rachel pretended to be complaining. She even playfully hit Nick in the chest.

"Ouch! That hurts!" He smiled broadly. "You should let me explain first. We dropped by in your office before going here 'cos I thought you already left this house." Rachel made a face then turned to Baylee.

"So? How's the little Brian?" She gave him her sweetest smile.

"My name is Baylee, Aunt Rachel." He told her innocently. Rachel laughed.

"I know sweety. Alexis is in his room waiting for you."

"Cool. I'll go ahead, Uncle." Baylee looked at Nick, asking for approval. Nick nodded and motioned to him that he can go. Baylee waved his hand goodbye then ran towards the house.

"Are you alright?" Nick ask in a worried tone.

"Can't you think of any other question? I'm sick of that." Rachel looked down on her shoes. Nick sighed.

"Ok. Your office is just two blocks away. Why use your car?"

"I have a meeting with a client, which reminds me I have to go." She kissed Nick, got in her car and pulled away. Nick shook his head and went inside the house. Nick went to the kitchen to talk to AJ first before he goes to Alexis' room and play video games with the boys. He saw AJ sitting at the kitchen counter. He was playing with the tissue he was holding.

"A penny for your thoughts?" Nick joked at him. He stood right in front of him.

"Don't even try. You would have to pay a LOT." AJ sighed before he stood up and went to the other side of the kitchen and opened the fridge. "Would you like to have something?" He asked Nick before he checked out the stocks in the fridge. AJ looked at Nick when he heard him laughing. He threw him a questioning look.

"I never thought I'd hear that from you." He laughed so hard again. "So what are you now? A house husband?" Nick laughed again and this time, AJ laughed with him too. AJ took a bottle of orange juice in the fridge and served it to Nick. He sat at the kitchen counter again.

"I don't think that would happen, well not anytime sooner."

"Something happened?" Nick is serious this time, opened the bottle and drank some. AJ told him everything that Rachel said before she left. "Then give her the space she wanted. You have waited for four years. I know you can still wait a few years more. You can't hurry things now, as you've said things are complicated now." AJ nodded in agreement. Sometimes he wonders how Nick can say the right things at the right time. His lips formed a half smile at that thought.

"A part of me wants to believe her that yes it was all her fault. If only she trusted me enough, this things will never happen. It could have saved us four years of misery. Then a part of me wants to believe it wasn't her fault. She was only a victim of Heather. I don' t know what to think, Nick. All I know is we are both hurting because of this." He paused for a moment then took a deep breath before he spoke again. "Do you know that there was a text message that apparently was from me?"

"Did I not tell you about that?" Nick scratched his head when AJ shook his head "How the hell did I miss that one? But I don't believe it was from you. It might be from Heather. You always leave your phone in your bag. Brian always tell you to just leave your stuff with Leighanne, Leigh or Lauren."

"I'd keep that in mind now." They both stopped when they heard Alexis shouting.

"Uncle Nicky!"

"I guess you need to go now. That boy has been waiting for you since he woke up." AJ laughed when he remembered how excited Alexis is for this day.

"You don't want to join us? It'll be fun."

"Nah! I'll just fix our lunch." Nick burst out laughing again. "Hey! You better stop laughing."

"Okay!" Nick held up his hands.

"Hey, do you think it's ok if I bring Rachel lunch?"

"There's no problem with that, but she's not in her office. She has a meeting with a client in the next town, that's why she used her car." AJ nodded. Nick turned around after making a few steps. "But I can call Brian and tell him to come over because you're cooking lunch. I bet he wouldn't miss it for the world." Nick laughed again then ran away when AJ hold the bottle of orange juice and pretended he would throw it at Nick.



~~~



Rachel was staring at AJ and Alexis. They are both asleep now. She always works overtime so they would be sleeping by the time she got home. It has been a week since that dramatic confrontation in the kitchen. AJ gave her the space she asked for. He won't talk to her unless he really need to or if it concerns their son. For the past seven days, they have been a family in Alexis' eyes. Every morning, AJ would prepare breakfast and they would have breakfast together. Every lunch, AJ and Alexis would come over to her office to bring her lunch and they would have lunch together in her office, and every night, she would find her dinner in the dining table with a sweet note from AJ and Alexis. This was the happiest week in her son's life and it hurts to think it would all end tonight. Tomorrow morning, AJ and the rest of the boys would leave the town to start their new world tour for the Unbreakable album.

Brian has talked her out in letting Alexis come with them on tour. She has been thinking hard about that. Leighanne promised she'd take care of Alexis when the boys are on stage, interviews etc. She trust Brian and Leighanne so much and she believed them when they say they are going to take care of Alexis and most importantly she trusts AJ. Her only worry was living in two suitcases can be a bit crazy sometimes. Alexis is not used to the crazy life his father has been living for a decade now. He might find it difficult in the road and she won't be there to assist him, but his father would be. She sighed heavily before getting her son's backpack and her travelling bag. She started packing her son's clothes, personal stuff, his favourite toys, dvd and everything he might need for the next two months of being with his father. She has spent three years with her son and now AJ is only asking for two months. She would only let Alexis come on the South America tour and after that they will have to talk again. She smiled after packing all Alexis' stuff. She bent over to kiss Alexis' cheeks when she saw AJ opened his eyes. He was awake the whole time she was packing.

"Thank you." AJ whispered then smiled at her. He was so gorgeous, she had to try hard to stop herself from kissing him. She only nodded then turned around to get out of the room. She has to move quickly or she won't be able to control herself and ran back to AJ's arms. She didn't notice AJ has already got out of bed and standing behind her. He stopped her from closing the door. He stared at her, then the back of his hand started brushing her cheeks. He looked straight into her eyes.

"God! You are so beautiful." His fingers touched her lips. She was breathless now and her knees are so weak, she wouldn't be able to stop AJ if he would try to kiss her. Actually, she is silently wishing that he would kiss her. She closed her eyes and savored this moment. AJ thought it was invitation so he moved his face closer to her and whispered, "I wanted to do this the first time I saw you again." His lips touched hers and they kissed passionately. They wanted to make up for all those wasted years. AJ's hands started to travel around her body then suddenly stopped when he felt someone is staring at them, he looked over his shoulder and saw Alexis sitting up on his bed, a wide smile on his face. Rachel blushed when she realized Alexis saw everything. She immediately let go of AJ and went inside the room. She kissed Alexis on his forehead.

"Go back to sleep baby, it's only 11 pm" she said while helping Alexis lie down again. She tucked him in. "I've got a surprise for you tomorrow, so you better go back to sleep now because you'll be needing a lot of energy tomorrow." Alexis smiled before he closed his eyes. Rachel stood up and walked towards the door. AJ was still at the door, he was smiling.

"Good night, AJ," She said as she walked past him.

"Good night, baby," AJ answered. She tried to ignore the endearment AJ used, but she was so happy to hear him say that again. AJ closed the door when he heard her closed the door of her room. He lied down beside his son and he slept with a smile on his face.



~~~



Rachel made sure that she would wake up before AJ and she would be the one to prepare breakfast. She checked on AJ and Alexis first. They are still asleep. She smiled when she saw how tight Alexis held on his father. She carried the backpack and the travelling bag downstairs and placed it in the living room. She went to the kitchen and started cooking their favourite breakfast: bacon and eggs. After an hour, she heard AJ and Alexis laughing as they walked into the kitchen. She smiled and greeted them.

"Morning, boys!"

"Morning, mom!" She bent over so Alexis could kiss her. She looked at AJ and he smiled at her.

"Morning, baby," She smiled at him as he pulled the chair for her. They had their breakfast and as usual, the father and son has something to laugh about. Rachel stood up as soon as Alexis is done eating his food.

"As I've told you last night, I have a surprise for you sweetheart," Rachel motioned for Alexis to come with her in the living room and his mouth dropped when he saw the backpack and the travelling bag full of his stuff. He looked up to his mother, surprised.

"You are going with your dad on tour for two months. I am going to miss you, honey." She hugged her son so tight. She is trying to hold back her tears and she tried to wear her best smile. She wanted Alexis to think that everything is okay.

"Thank you, mom! You are the best!" Alexis hugged her so tight, then he looked up to her again. "Aren't you going with us?"

"No, baby. I am really sorry. You know how busy mommy is, right?"

"But Aunt Leighanne comes on tour with Uncle Brian and Baylee." Rachel let out a deep sigh.

"Aunt Leighanne can bring her work with her on tour but I cannot. I have to stay here. I am going to call you up everyday and you need to tell me everything that happened to you, okay?" Alexis nodded and hugged her again. "Now go upstairs and fix yourself. You and dad have to be prepared in an hour." Alexis ran upstairs to have a shower and get dressed. She turned around to go back to the kitchen when she saw AJ standing few steps behind her.

"Thank you, Rachel." He said seriously.

"Just enjoy your time with him, and please make him happy."

"I will. Thanks. Do you want to talk before we go?" He asked her hoping she would say yes and they can fix everything before he goes on tour. She slowly shook her head and give him a hope-you-understand look. AJ nodded and went upstairs to prepare. The guys will pick them up in an hour. She went back to the kitchen to wash the dishes and after she was done, she waited for Alexis and AJ in the living room. She opened the front door when she heard a car coming. She saw the guys getting out of the car. She greeted them and told them to come in.

"Well, I guess it's time to say goodbye," she said while looking at everyone.

"I'm gonna miss you, angel. It's a good thing I have your number now." Nick chuckled.

"Please don't call me five times a day," she rolled her eyes, then she looked at Brian. "Please keep your promise Brian. Take care of my baby."

"We always take care of AJ. Don't worry about that, angel," Nick grinned at her.

"Not funny!" She gave Nick a warning look.

"We're done!" AJ said as he and Alexis walk into the living room. Everyone was happy to see that Alexis will be joining them on tour.

"Ok then. Let's go!" Howie said as he helps his wife to stand up. Rachel said her goodbye to everyone. She hugged and kissed everyone. Then it was time to say goodbye to Alexis and AJ.

"Be a good boy, honey. Always obey your father. Don't forget to pray at night and Mommy is going to call you everyday, okay?" Alexis nodded and then kissed and hugged her. She held on Alexis for a few moments then she let him go. Alexis got inside the car. Nowm AJ is the only one left outside. She handed him a paper. "I wrote everything there from when to take his vitamins to foods he is allergic to. But you can always call me if you want to ask anything." AJ nodded while checking out the notes.

"Wow! This is a very long list. I think you covered everything." He gave her a smile that always made her heart beat faster.

"Take care of Alexis. Kiss him for me every morning when he wakes up and everynight before he close his eyes."

"I'll never forget that. Bye Rachel. See you soon, baby," He kissed her on the lips. It was too fast she didn't have time to stop him. The kiss lasted for about three seconds but the effect will last forever. AJ smiled and waved at her before he closed the car's door. She sighed when the car pulled away.



~~~



It was a very busy day for Rachel. She just had two meetings with her clients. The tax filing is a month from now so she is working double time. Her only break was the ten-minute call with Alexis. Her son was having so much in South America with his father. Rachel stopped working when a tall, dark-haired woman walked into her office. Rachel looks her up and down, not knowing who this woman was or why she was in her office. She introduces herself as Lauren. Rachael pondered... Lauren? Lauren... Lauren. Why did that name sound so familiar and then, it hit her. Nicks girlfriend. She was surprised. She'd heard of her but never seen her before. Rachel wasn't sure what she'd have guessed her to be but certainly she hadn't expected to see the woman standing before her. She was not what she was accustomed to seeing Nick with in all the years she dated Alex. A bit curvier, not the glamourous hollywood starlet Nick had an addiction for. Still, with those sparkling blue eyes and a natural glow in her, she was a sight to see.??As she summed her up, Rachel couldn't help but feel a surge a pride run through her. Nicky, who has been like a big brother to her had finally grown up. He'd looked past the superficial and discovered the true beauty of a woman is in the subtleties, and Lauren seemed to radiate with it strength and security. She smiled sweetly to her and motioned her to sit down.

"What can I do for you, Lauren?"

"I just want to give this personally to you. Nick asked me to hand this personally to his sisters." She was smiling while handing the white envelope to her.

"No. I am not Nick's sister -" Lauren cut her off.

"Well, for him, you are" She smiled again and Rachel finds her more attractive now. Rachel opened the envelope and found an invitation inside it. She almost screamed when she read the first line on the invitation. She looked at Lauren, she was still smiling.

"Nick is getting married?!" She was not sure how she delivered that sentence, if she was asking her or she was making a statement.

Lauren laughed softly.

"It's hard to believe, isn't it?" She paused for a moment and shot a glance at the invitation card. "I, myself, had a hard time believing him."

"Wow! You are really the right girl for him. You made him believe in marriage again. Best wishes in advance and please tell Nick my congratulations." She extended her hand to her and she gladly accepted.

"Nick would probably call you in an hour so you can tell him that yourself." Lauren checked on her watch. "I think I have to go now. I have a flight to catch in three hours. I'll be going to Canada, got to give Leslie her invitation."

"I see. You're going alone?" She asked in a concerned tone.

"Yup. Nick gave me a tough job. Just like you, his other three sisters has no idea that he's getting married in two weeks! Imagine how Angel and BJ freaked out." She laughed.

"Oh yeah! I can imagine Angel's reaction and I am glad I wasn't the one who handed her that invitation." They both laughed at that thought. "It's so nice to meet you, Lauren, and I am so glad Nick found you."

"It's so nice to finally meet you too. I've heard so much about you."

"Well, I wish Nick told you nice things about me." She chuckled.

"No! Not from Nick. From Alex. And yes, he told me nice things about you." Lauren looked Rachel in the eyes. "Alex loves you so much and I think you two deserves a second chance. I'll see you on my wedding."

"I wouldn't miss it for the world. See you in two weeks" Rachel waved at her before she gets in her car. She let out a deep sigh as Lauren drove away. She called up her favourite designer as soon as she gets in her office.



~~~



Rachel opened her eyes when she heard the alarm clock ring. She turned it off and went to bathroom to take a shower. Today is the day she has been waiting to come for 2 months. The Backstreet Boys' South America tour ended yesterday just in time for Nick's wedding day which will be three days from now. And she got a phone call from Alex last night informing her he will bring back Alexis today. She finished her shower in ten minutes, which is way too fast. It would normally take her forty-five minutes to an hour. She get dressed and went downstairs. Ally was on her way out when she saw her.

"Hey! Crissy left that for you an hour ago." Ally pointed at a big white box on the couch. She smiled, She knows what it is. Crissy is a friend and a small time designer. She ordered a gown for Nick's wedding. Ally nodded and headed out.

"Take care, sis!" She called out to her and she got an 'ok' for an answer. She went to check out the gown, she opened the box and pulled the dress out of the box. It was beautiful. A purple halter dress with jewel embellishment at the waist. Crissy copied it from the dress Holly Hunter wore at the Emmy awards last year. Until now she can't believe she chose purple, AJ's favourite color, to be the color of her dress. She tried to convince herself that she was not trying to impress AJ. She put the dress back in the box and brought it in her room. She went back downstairs to prepare some breakfast. She heard a car stopped in front of her house as she walked into the kitchen. She ran back to the front door and opened it. She was so happy to see Alexis again. He gained some weight and it looked good on him. He looked perfect now more than ever. Alexis ran to her screaming.

"Mom!" He hugged her so tight. "I miss you so much! And Daddy said he missed you too." She smiled at him then looked at AJ. He smiled back at her. She looked back at Alexis.

"You have no idea how much Mommy missed you. Did you have fun?"

"Yes! I have so many stories to tell." Rachel can sense the excitement in her son's voice. He was very eager to tell his stories.

"Tell me all about it, sweetie," She laugh softly.

"There are lots of girls screaming Dad's name. They all wanted to touch daddy but I did not let them, Mom." He spoke like a military general who won't let anything bad happen to America.

"Why not? They are his fans."

"Because Daddy belongs to you." Rachel laughed with her son's answer. She couldn't believe a three-year old can say these things. She looked at AJ who is still smiling and amazed by his son's intelligence.

"I got to go, buddy. I'll see you in three days." AJ turned Alexis around and kissed him on the cheeks then embraced him tight.

"Bye, Dad. See you in three days." Alexis looked up to Rachel again. "Mom, Uncle Nicky is getting married." He informed her.

"I know, sweetheart. Your Aunt Lauren was here a week ago."

"Lauren was here?" AJ asked Rachel. She nodded.

"She gave me my invitation."

"Ok. See you two in three days. Bye." AJ waved before he gets into his car then he drove off.

"Let's get inside sweetheart and tell me everything." Alexis started telling his stories while they walk towards the house.



~~~



August 28, 2009, The Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, Tennessee. Nick and Lauren are now officially Mr. and Mrs. Carter. The newlyweds are beaming and very, very happy. They got married in a small church an hour ago and now it's time for the big reception. The couple has invited approximately 200 guests and those are just relatives and friends of the Carter and Kitt families. Rachel was in the same table as Leighanne, Brian, Howie, Leigh, Kevin and Kristin. Baylee and Alexis are somewhere playing with Mason, Kevin's son. And AJ hasn't showed up in the hotel yet. Brian said they must have left him in the church and he got lost trying to get in the hotel. They stopped laughing when Nick took the centerstage. Lauren just stayed on the side, smiling. As if it's their cue, Howie, Brian and Kevin stood up and went to the stage too.

"Backstreet boys re-united." One guest commented and everyone screamed in excitement. Nick held up his hand to make the guest stop, and there was silence.

"This is my wedding day. I am supposed to be the star of the day right?" Some of the guest nodded, some of them shouted 'yes' and some of them just smiled knowing something funny or exciting will come up. "But I love my friend so much I am willing to share the stage with him. And see, even these four guys are willing to support them." He paused for a moment then laughed softly. "Brian's going to play the guitar, Kevin will play the piano, Howie would be the back up singer. I wanted to play the drums but my wife said, damn! It feels so good to say that, my wife." Rachel looked at Lauren and saw Nick mouthed I love you to her and in return give him a flying kiss. The guest cheered them. "As I was saying, my wife said I would just ruin the romantic setting so I'll just play the guitar too."

Rachel feels a little nervous. The four guys are on stage and AJ is nowhere to be found. She knows AJ is up to something, and the way Leighanne, Leigh and Kristin look at her, these women knows something they weren't telling her. She heard Nick spoke again,

"Ladies and gentlemen, my dear friend, AJ McLean." AJ came from the backstage. He took the microphone from Nick.

"Sorry, Nick, for taking the spotlight from you." He chuckled. Nick gave him two thumbs up. AJ looked at Lauren "Thank you, Lauren, for being so supportive of my plan." Lauren just smiled. "I want to dedicate this song to the only woman I've loved. After four years of searching, I found her again and I want to tell her that I never stopped loving her even for one second. That I am sorry for everything that happened between us." AJ turned and looked at the direction where her table was. "Rachel, you have and will always be my everything."


It's not that I can't live without you
It's just that I don't even want to try
Every night I dream about you
Ever since the day we said goodbye
If I wasn't such a fool
Right now I'd be holding you
There's nothin' that I wouldn't do
Baby if I only knew
The words to say
The road to take
To find a way back to your heart
What can I do
To get to you
And find a way back to your heart


Rachel wiped her tears. It feels so good to hear AJ sing one of her favourite Backstreet songs. She glanced at Kristin. She was smiling and obviously still touched by this song. Kevin wrote this song for her when they broke up for one month. She saw AJ coming down from the stage and walking towards her while singing.


I don't know how it got so crazy
But I'll do anything to set things right
Cuz your love is so amazing
Baby you're the best thing in my life
Let me prove my love is real
And made you feel the way I feel
I promise I would give the world
If only you would tell me girl


AJ is now singing in front of her, tears flowing from his eyes.

Give me one more chance, to give my love to you
Cuz no one on this earth loves you like I do
Tell me...
I turn back time
To make you mine
And find a way back to your heart
I beg and plead
Fall to my knees
To find a way back to your heart


AJ kneeled down, took a velvet box from his pocket and opened it in front of her. She saw a canary yellow diamond engagement ring inside the box. She covered her mouth by her hands. With tears flowing from his eyes, he started to speak.

"I've loved you since the first day we met and after seven years, I am still in love with you and loving you more each day. We've been through so much, I lost you four years ago and I will never let that happen again. You are the best thing that happened to me. You have and will always be my everything. You made me the happiest man in the world when you gave me a beautiful and wonderful son. Thank you so much for that. I am very blessed to be able to ask you this. Rachel Anne Stewart, will you marry me? I promise to love you forever, every single day of forever."

She was too stunned to answer. She could hear Leighanne and Kristin telling her to say 'yes'. She was staring at AJ, tears are flowing from her eyes.

"Yes, AJ! Yes, I will marry you." She was able to answer after a few minutes. AJ was relieved. He helped her to stand up. "I love you too, AJ, so damn much!" She was still crying. AJ cupped her head with his hands.

"It's Alex, sweetheart. It's Alex." Then he kissed her, so passionately for about three minutes. They only stopped when they heard the guest cheering for them. AJ smiled and took the microphone from the floor. "I guess we'll see you again in our wedding next month."

"Next month?" Rachel protested. "That's too fast. We wouldn't be able to pull off a nice wedding."

"What can I do? I can't wait for you to be mine." He kissed her again. "Let's get out of here." AJ whispered to Rachel.

"What? Why?"

"Let's give back the spotlight to the newlyweds," he chuckled.

"Where are we going?" She asked him while tracing his lips with her fingers. AJ fanned her with a magnetic card. Her eyes got big and she blushed. "AJ! You don't-"

"I knew you'd say YES so I already reserve a room for us... I miss you soon-to-be Mrs McLean... and I can't wait any longer." He grinned at her, obviously with dirty thoughts on his mind. "Plus you look absolutely gorgeous and sexy with that purple dress." Rachel gave him a teasing smile.

"What about Alexis? Our son?"

"You guys go to your love nest. I'll take care of Alexis." Leighanne said while playfully pushing them away. The two run to the elevator as soon as Leighanne was finished talking. They spent three hours in that room, making up for those wasted years. They did nothing but show their love for one another. One month from now the wedding will take place and nothing or no one can separate them again.



THE END