What You Need - by Lyric

To: Chely
From: AB Cavett
Subject: Life in Europe vs Life at Home
Hey Chely,
How's life in the States? How's Timmy? You tossed him to the curb yet? Did he survive meeting the folks? Tell me something good.
Me? Well�sigh�I'm here. We head to Spain tomorrow. Wish you were here. We could have some fun sightseeing.
Let's see what's new�I'm the only one who has managed not to get the flu that's been passed around. Guess I better knock on wood. Although, the incessant bass thumping coming through the wall right now is giving me a headache. Nick and Tony have MainXpress over for fun tonight.
I swear Chely, I feel like I'm back in high school. Angelica has caught the clue bus that I can't make Nick be interested in her. And of course, she has decided to be a bitch about it. Gretchen and Vanessa are nice to me and aren't trying to pull anything. Unfortunately, Angelica rules the group. Add to the drama, Tony who hates me. You would think if Nick doesn't hate me for coming to get him in Tampa, then Tony would lighten up, but no. He's decided I'm the Wicked Witch of the East. He's good too. Very rarely, does Nick ever catch him.
Now don't worry, it's not all bad. Nick's bodyguard, Pat, is cool. He's funny and he doesn't put up with any crap, which really pisses Tony off. He makes Tony walk behind him with Nick and me up front. He told Tony he needed him to watch out behind us, so no one surprises us. Tony wants to share Nick's spotlight and he can't get the attention he wants. Also whenever possible, he separates Nick and Tony. In the van, he will make Tony get on another row of seats. I have to bit my tongue sometimes to keep from laughing.
Another good thing is Nick. He's still getting to everything on time. He's much easier to work with now. I think he finally figured out life is easier when he's not always trying to swim up stream.
Also, thank God he hasn't hooked up with Angelica! It would just be too depressing. Heck it is depressing. It's not like I want Nick or anything, but right now, I would settle for friends with benefits. LOL I know�I can hear you and you're right. I don't do casual. Chely let's be honest, I don't do anything. I'm a void where a girl should be.
Well on that happy note, I'm going to bed. Don't worry about me. I'm fine�just having a mood. Maybe I'm PMSing. You know how maudlin I get every month. LOL
Let me know what's going on with you.
Luv ya,
Abe

Chapter 17
Splash! Abe sputtered while righting herself. Without saying a word, she climbed out of the pool. Everyone was laughing. She forced a smile before heading to the Villa.
�Abe, you okay,� asked Roger.
�I�m fine.�
Brian asked, �where ya goin�?�
�Inside,� she answered, closing the door behind her.
�I think somebody�s mad,� said Leighanne.
Angelica called out, �Nick where you goin�?�
�To check on Abe.�
�Aw man, forget about her,� said Tony.
Nick waved him off as he entered the house. He followed the wet footprints to her bedroom door and knocked.
�Who is it?�
�Nick.�
�Give me a minute.�
Nick waited.
Opening the door while straightening a dry shirt, she said, �do you need something?�
�Are you mad at me?�
�It�s fine Nick. Good thing I can swim, huh?�
�Shit! I didn�t think about that.�
�Anything else?�
�I think you�re mad at me.�
�I�m fine,� she said again, locking eyes with him for the first time.
He studied her face. She didn�t look mad, but she didn�t look fine either.
�Get your suit on and come back out.�
�Don�t have a suit.�
�You don�t,� he said, surprised.
�No.� �Well come out anyway.� �Maybe later. I�ve got some stuff to do.�
�You sure you�re okay?�
�Nick,� floated a voice from somewhere else in the house.
�Yeah,� he called.
�There you are. Oh hi AB.�
�Angelica.�
�Are you guys going to stay in here all day?�
�No. I�m coming. Abe, sure you won�t join us?�
�Go on.�
�Bye AB. Come on Nick. I need some more sun screen on my back,� said the blonde, as she walked away from Abe�s door.
�Come out if you get done," said Nick.
�Okay," replied Abe, closing the door.
Nick stood there for a moment.
�Nick,� Angelica called.
�Coming.�
Abe rested against the closed door, fighting the tears currently sliding down her face. She had been outside with everyone. Sure she was sitting off to the side of the patio and pool area, but she was there, enjoying the atmosphere. It felt a bit conspicuous being the only one in jeans and a T-shirt, but it was all she had. Shaking her head, she allowed a bitter laugh escape her lips as she thought about Nick�s surprise at her not having a bathing suit. Even if she did, she certainly wasn�t going to wear it around all the beautiful people outside.
She still couldn�t believe she was staying in a Villa on the coast of Spain. Nick explained they had done the same thing the last time they toured Europe. The dates this time conveniently allowed for a few days off the first week of July, which meant they were celebrating the 4th at the Villa.
Originally, Abe thought she would be going with the crew, but Roger said she was staying with the guys. So she now found herself in this beautiful place surround by the members of BSB and MainXpress, the bodyguards and a few select others. Of course, Leighanne was with Brian. Howie's girlfriend Leigh had flown in for the week.
Wiping away the tears, Abe stretched out on her bed. She soon fell asleep only to wake up two hours later. She followed her ears to the dining room where everyone was eating dinner. Ducking back around the corner, she managed not being seen. Quietly filling a plate, Abe just wanted to get back to her room. She didn't make a clean get-away, because Leigh was coming into the kitchen and saw her leaving the room, but didn�t say anything.
Later in the evening, Leigh mentioned it to Howie.
"AB has always been quiet."
"So you've said, but I think there is more to it."
"Like what?"
"Like I think this whole situation has been harder on her than she would ever let on."
"Being in a Spanish Villa," replied Howie, incredulously.
"No silly. Working with you guys."
"She really only deals with Nick. Not like that isn't a big enough job."
"Have you ever had a conversation with her, Howie?"
He thought for a moment. "Come to think of it no. I mean the only time any of us have really talked to her was when Nick took off." "When she sat Kevin on his butt?"
"Yeah."
"Poor girl," said Leigh, frowning.
"Why?"
"She doesn't have anyone to interact with, but Nick."
"But that's her job."
"Exactly. No one else has ever sought her out. She's completely alone. Not to mention Tony is apparently holding a grudge about when Nick took off. Then add Angelica and well shit! No wonder she stays to herself."
"What have Tony and Angelica got to do with it."
"Have you not noticed how they egg each other on to see who can get away with being meaner to her?"
"They do?"
"Howard!"
"What?"
"Pay attention to what goes on around you! I've been here two days and I figured this out."
"Sorry. It's just seems like she has always been all right. You know?"
"I know," conceded Leigh.
"Tell you what, how about tomorrow we keep an eye on her and include her when we can?"
Leigh kissed him and said, "This is why you are my favorite Backstreet Boy."
"You are asking for it now," said Howie, as he started chasing her around the back yard.
********
The following morning, Howie and Leigh were having breakfast when Abe walked into the kitchen carrying a plate and glass.
"Morning AB."
"Morning," said she, surprised the man spoke to her.
"Want to join us for breakfast?"
Holding up the plate and glass, she said, "I already ate, but thanks."
"What are your plans for today," he asked, trying to be nonchalant. "Probably catch up on some reading."
"We're going shopping. Why don't you come with us," asked Leigh.
"I don't think so. Nick might need me, but thanks for asking."
"Nick won't need you. Come shopping with us."
"Please. I need someone to keep me company while he shops."
"Hey!"
"Sweetie you know you take forever making up your mind."
"What can I say? I'm cautious."
"Sure honey, whatever you say. So AB, you have to come with us."
"Do I have a choice?"
"No," the other two replied in unison.
"When are we leaving?"
"Now."
"Let me tell Nick where I'm going. I'll meet you out front."
Abe knocked on Nick's door, no reply. She opened the door, the whole time praying there was no one with him. He was face down on the bed alone. She tiptoed over and sat down on the edge of the bed. He was turned away from her.
"Nick," she said gently.
Nick didn't budge.
Nudging him, she said, "Nick."
This time Nick turned toward her. His arms wrapped around her as his head moved to her lap. Snuggling closer, he rubbed his nose gently against her stomach. Abe's eyes were huge. She didn't move or breathe for a moment. Looking down at him, she couldn't resist the temptation to feel his hair again. It was as soft as the first time she touched it. Nick sighed and tightened his grip on her. She finally got the courage to shake his shoulder.
Nick opened his eyes and saw denim. His mind registered that he was hugging someone, but whom? He looked up to see Abe with a look of horror on her face. He quickly moved away.
"What are you doing in my room? And why are you sitting on my bed?" "I came to tell you I'm going shopping with Howie and Leigh. I should be back in a couple of hours."
Nick looked at the clock on the nightstand. It read 10:18. "You won't be back until this afternoon. Do you have to go?"
"Do you need me to do something?"
"No," said Nick, after thinking for a moment.
"Then I will see you later. Bye," stated Abe, as she moved to the door.
"Bye."

Chapter 18
�Hey.�
�Don�t talk to me, man. You went shopping without me!�
Laughing, Howie said, �Sorry AJ.�
�So did you buy me anything?�
�AJ,� exclaimed Howie, shaking his head.
�Fine. I will just have to go shopping without you tomorrow.�
�AJ?�
�Yeah AB?�
�We leave in the morning.�
�Damn!�
The four were laughing, when Roger walked into the livingroom.
�You guys got back just in time, food�s ready.�
�Thanks Roger. Leigh give me you�re bags and I�ll put them in the room.�
�Thanks sweetie. I�ll get our drinks and meet you outside. Abe, what do you want to drink?�
�Huh,� asked Abe, stopping on her way out of the room. �Don�t worry about it. I�m going to just grab something quick and work in my room.�
As she headed for her room, she missed the look exchanged by Leigh and Howie.
Closing the door to her room, she stretched out on the bed. It had been a fun afternoon. Howie and Leigh were funny shopping together. The only tense time came while they were looking in a small family owned shop. Leigh pulled her over to a display of skirts. Each skirt was full and had a drawstring waist. They were colorful and had a gypsy feel. She had to admit they were beautiful. Leigh picked out a deep red one for Abe, but she refused to try it on. They let it drop when they saw how upset she was getting. Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door.
�Hi Howie. Did you need something?�
�Yes. You.�
�Me?�
�You need to come have dinner with everyone.� She started shaking her head. �Abe�is it okay if I call you Abe now?�
She nodded.
�Good. Abe don�t hide up here. Leigh and I would really like you to join us. We had a great time this afternoon.�
�Me too.�
�Then come eat with us,� he said, extending his hand. �Trust me. It'll be okay.�
Abe tentatively took his hand. He smiled and moved it to the crook of his arm. She fought the urge to run back to her room as they moved through the house. Once outside, Leigh was waiting for them at a table.
�Abe, I got you ice tea. Hope that�s okay?�
�Thanks Leigh.�
�Ladies shall we get in line for the food,� asked Howie.
Abe allowed the couple to go ahead of her in the line. AJ walked up behind her.
�AB, I didn�t see you with any bags when you came in. Don�t tell me you didn�t buy anything.�
She smiled at him.
After a moment, he asked, �what?�
�You said not to tell you, so the only other option was not talking.�
�Cute,� he replied, rolling his eyes. �How could you go shopping and not buy anything?�
�There�s shopping to look and shopping to buy. I was shopping to look. I had fun just seeing everything.�
"I don't get it," said AJ shaking his head.
"That's because you never shop to look," replied Leigh.
AJ's response was to flip her off, which only made her laugh. Abe fixed her plate and started to follow Leigh and Howie to the table, but her name being called stopped her.
"Abe, come sit with us," called Nick.
"Thanks Nick, but Howie invited me to sit with them."
"Oh, okay," replied Nick.
He found himself watching her throughout dinner. AJ and Roger were also sitting at her table. She was smiling and talking, something he realized he hadn't seen her do recently. He wasn't sure why it bothered him, but it did.
Tony interrupted his thoughts, "what are you lookin' at?"
"Huh? Nothin' really. Just Abe seems to be having fun over there."
"Good for her," replied Tony, in a biting tone.
"What is your problem?"
"No problem. I just don't see why you would care if she's having a good time."
"I work with her."
"Correction she works for you."
Nick said, "why are you acting like this?"
"Bitch, cost Mike his job. She kidnapped you and hauled your ass out of the apartment. Basically, she's trying to run your fuckin' life!"
"Boys�Boys�don't fight. Especially, about her," stated Angelica.
"Ang, I don't think you want to get into this," whispered her bandmate, Gretchen.
"Listen to her, Angelica," snapped Nick before turning back to Tony. "First off, she didn't cost Mike his job. He's hooking up with us in Stockholm. Second, She didn't kidnap me. She actually cared enough to come get me." "Nick, it's her fuckin' job!"
"That wasn't. She saved my ass that time. She is helping organize my life and you know what man? It's helped. The guys aren't chewin' my ass as much. I get places on time and with less hassle."
"Fine man. Whatever."
"Another thing Tony."
"What," he asked, glaring at Nick.
"Don't ever call her a bitch again."
"Whatever man. I gotta pee," he said as he stood up.
Nick stood too and said, "I'm serious man. Don't call her a bitch ever again."
Tony really looked into Nick's eyes and realized he wasn't playing.
"All right man, I won't. Now can I go drain the main vein?"
Nick chuckled and sat down. Angelica took the opportunity to scoot closer to him.
"I'm sorry Nick. I just hated seeing you two fight. You're such good friends."
"It's all right. Sorry I snapped at you."
"All's forgotten," replied Angelica.
Kevin announced that fireworks would be starting once tables were cleared and moved. Abe disappeared into the house with Leigh to get blankets. As they were laying them out on the ground, Nick walked up.
"Do you have room on there for me?"
"Sure," answered Abe. "But where is everyone else?"
"We're right here," answered Angelica. "Nick, I brought enough blankets to share with you and Tony."
Sitting down on Abe's blanket, Nick said, "Why don't your spread yours out next to Abe's, then we can all sit together."
Pouting slightly, she did as Nick suggested. Soon Tony, Gretchen, and Vanessa joined Angelica her. AJ spread out across Abe and Howie's blankets. Leigh, Howie and Nick noticed Abe was again withdrawn. AJ noticed and actually tried to pull her out of her shell some.
Soon the fireworks started. It was small display, but still fun to oh and ah over. Everyone began to break up and head off in different directions not long after the last firework lit up the sky. Most moved in to the house. Abe said goodnight to everyone and headed for her room. She had just dozed off, when someone knocked on her door. She opened it to find Nick on the other side.
"Nick?"
"Did I wake you up?"
"Yes."
"Nevermind."
"I'm awake. What do you want?"
He looked at her for moment. Running his fingers through his hair, he finally asked, "Can I come in?"
She frowned, but let him in. He sat down on her bed and she joined him.
"What's going on Nick?"
"I'm sorry."
"Huh?"
"I'm sorry I threw you in the pool. I didn't think it'd make you so mad."
"Nick I'm fine."
"You say your fine, but you don't act like your fine?"
"What are you talking about, " asked Abe, getting agitated.
"I'm talking about you said you were fine yesterday, but I could see in your eyes you weren't."
"I'm fine now Nick really."
"Then why wouldn't you eat dinner with me tonight?"
"I told you Howie asked me to join them."
"That's another thing when did you and Howie get so chummy?"
"We aren't chummy. I think they felt sorry for me, because I'm the only one who hasn't left this Villa since we got here two days ago."
"You could have gone with us yesterday," he retorted.
"You guys went out on a boat and jet skis. You were swimming."
"And you don't have a bathing suit."
"Bingo!"
He was quiet for a moment. Chewing on his bottom lip, he mulled over their conversation.
"I gotta question for ya."
"Shoot."
"Why don�t you like Tony?"
"I don't have anything against him. He doesn't like me and that's fine. He doesn't have to."
"Well I'm sorry if he's been mean to you."
"I'm fine."
"Why don't I believe you," he asked, searching her eyes.
She had to look away from his intense stare. "Nick, I'm always fine. So don't worry about me."
Nick realized he was pushing too hard and for the life of him, he didn't know why. "So we cool?"
"We cool," she replied.
After a moment, she said, "Nick?"
"Yeah?"
"Do you need anything else?"
"Guess you want to go to bed," he said as a sheepish grin spread across his lips.
"Yeah."
"Don't get up. I can let myself out."
As he moved to the door, Abe slipped under the covers.
"Hey Nick?"
"Yeah?"
"Thanks for coming to check on me yesterday and tonight."
"Hey you came after me first."

"What You Need" is a work of fiction.
The characters and events portrayed are fictitious,
and any resemblance to real people or events is purely coincidental.

Used with Permission
Copyright ©2002
All Rights Reserved
No part of this text may be copied or reprinted
without the author's permission.

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