I stood in the jewelry store examining the ring. It wasn�t too big, but it was something you�d definitely take notice of. The band was silver and the diamond was actually a heart shape. I hadn�t seen many heart shaped engagement rings and I wanted something different for Mackenzie.

�What do you think?� I asked looking at Craig.
�It�s cool.� He said and I sighed.
�Dude, I should have brought one of my sisters.�
�Well, what do you want me to say Aaron?� He asked.
�I don�t know. I mean would you like it if you were Mac?�
�I�d probably want something bigger.� Craig laughed. I pushed him.
�It�s a karat. Mac hates big rings, she hardly likes expensive jewelry.�
�So get her something out of the gumball machine.� Craig joked and I rolled my eyes before looking at the ring again.

�Aaron, what does it matter? She loves you. She�ll say yes.� Craig shrugged. I looked up at the jeweler.
�Can I come back later?� I asked.
�Of course Mr. Carter. I�ll hold it in the back.� I walked out the door and Craig followed.
�Just get the ring man.�
�I need this to be perfect.�
�It will be. Why are you so uptight about this?� Craig asked.
�Mackenzie and I have been going out for four years now. I can�t just pop the question in a boring stupid way. She�s a sucker for happy endings and I want to give her that fairytale she always wanted.� I sighed and if I were Craig, I probably would have laughed in my face.
�Dude, she has you wrapped around her finger.�
�Yeah, but I don�t care. She doesn�t use that to her advantage. We have the best relationship I�ve ever seen. I mean when was the last time you�ve seen us fight?�
�Last month over what movie to watch.� Craig laughed.
�See what I mean?�
�Yeah, but Aar, you have to know you�re going to have serious fights once you�re married.�
�Maybe, but we haven�t had anything bad in four years�so who knows?�

We got in my car and I dropped Craig off at his house before heading back home. I didn�t spend a lot of time home, not like I ever did, but now even when I was �home�, I wasn�t actually at my house. Mackenzie had moved to Marathon about two years ago and I spent a lot of time at her place. When she was in New York, I was staying with my brother and his wife a lot. I�m sure I was a pain to them, but sometimes I just needed to get out of my house.

Mom and I had our fights every once in a while. Okay, so they were pretty frequent. She was always bitching me out for going to too many clubs or if I came home drunk, I had to answer to her. I guess that�s normal Mom stuff, but it�s also normal twenty-two year old guy stuff to do too. My issues with my mother go beyond that though. I can�t explain it, but I hold a lot of resentment toward her. I don�t think about it much and I never want to talk about it because it just makes me pissed off.

I�m telling Mom today about asking Mackenzie to marry me. Maybe she�ll get off my back then. She thinks I�m irresponsible and I need to grow up. Mom even got BJ and Leslie to believe it. Angel knows better than that or maybe Angel is just in the same boat as I am. She is more of a partier than I am even. She was pretty shy all her life and still is, but she really comes out of her shell once she�s at a party or a club. I actually started to go to more clubs because of Angel. Nick wanted me to keep an eye on her and he�s pretty whipped himself, so he�s not about to go and party. He says it�s not his scene anymore, but I know it was never Trista�s scene to begin with and he rather stay at home with her when he�s in town. It�s understandable enough; I just wish he�d admit to it.

I walked into the kitchen and went straight for the refrigerator. I scoped out the shelves until I found some of the leftover chocolate cake. I pulled it out and grabbed a fork ready to dig into it.
�Aaron, we�re having dinner soon.� Mom scolded. I rolled my eyes.
�I know.� I shrugged taking a forkful anyway.
�You�re not going to be able to finish your food.�
�So I won�t eat dinner then.� I sighed.
�You�ll get sick if you have chocolate cake for dinner Aaron.� Mom said pulling the fork out of my hand and putting it in the sink.
�Mom, I�m old enough to decide if I want a piece of cake or not.�
�Oh, I forgot. You�re old enough to do everything now so I should just shut my mouth.� Mom huffed and I felt like just answering with, �Exactly.� I wrapped up the cake and put it back in the refrigerator.

�Is Dad home?� I asked.
�He�s out working on the boat.� I nodded and sat down at the table.
�Mark called.� She said causing me to look up.
�What did he have to say?� I asked.
�He wants you to do a tour this summer.�
�What did you tell him?�
�I told him I�d have to talk to you about it.� Mom said and I smiled.
�Let�s do it.� I decided. I�ve had some time off and I haven�t done a big tour in a while. I was really starting to miss it and since my album would be finished by then, it worked out.
�Okay, I�ll call him tomorrow to let him know.�
�Thanks.� I said and she was about to walk away.

�Mom?�
�Yeah?�
�Can I talk to you and Dad later about something?�
�Is everything okay?�
�Yeah fine. I just have something to tell you.� I said with a reassuring smile.
�Okay. Dinner will be ready in a half an hour.� She announced before going in the other room. Angel came down the stairs in an all leather outfit.
�Where are you going?� I asked.
�To this rave on Sunset.�
�Ang, you can�t go out like that.� I sighed.
�Says who?�
�I don�t feel very safe with you going to some rave dressed like that.�
�Aaron, you�re not my bodyguard. I�m older than you.� She sighed.
�By a freakin� minute.� I laughed.

�When�s Mac getting back from New York so you�ll get off my case?�
�She�s getting in late tonight and I�m not on your case.�
�You know, I don�t criticize you when you go out.�
�Angel, I don�t wear short skirts and dance up on every guy.� I sighed.
�Maybe you should start. The bouncers would probably let you in for free and all the guys would buy you drinks.� Angel joked.
�Funny. Really funny.� I said pulling her into a headlock and she screamed.
�Aaron, you�re messing up my hair!� She squealed and I let her go before she quickly ran her fingers through her precious hair.
�Asshole.� She said.
�You�re such a brat.� I said walking upstairs.
�And don�t send someone to watch me Aar!� Angel yelled after me.

I got to my bedroom and called Craig.
�What are you doing tonight?� I asked.
�I don�t know yet. Why?�
�Angel�s going to this rave on Sunset.�
�Aaron, you want me to watch her again?�
�Just for a little while. Check out the scene and make sure it�s okay for me.�
�Why can�t you go yourself?� Craig asked.
�I told you I�m telling my parents tonight.�
�Fine, but you�re letting me borrow your new dirt bike next week.�
�Fine.� I gave in. I heard the door open and slam and I knew Dad was home. I walked downstairs and Angel was kissing him and Mom goodbye. The sad thing was, they didn�t even flinch about her outfit. I mean how is it that I get ripped into for wanting to have cake before dinner, but my sister can go out looking like a tramp and they say nothing?

Angel was their angel, that�s why. She could commit murder and they�d ignore it. If Angel came home drunk, they didn�t even notice. Out of all five of us, Angel got away with everything. She was great at lying and even better at sucking up. We were both tattle tails when we were little, but they stopped believing me after a while since I started making up stories, but Angel got on their good side by telling them everything. Nick and I got in trouble for every little shitting thing. BJ was the rebellious one I guess. She did her own thing. She moved out on her own even before Nick did. Well, Nick moved out with his old girlfriend, but he was at our house every minute anyway, so it didn�t really count. Leslie always tried the hardest. She wanted attention from Mom so badly and she finally got it once she broke lose and went out on her own with her singing career. Now her and Mom have the best relationship out of all of us.

We ate dinner in silence pretty much and after taking a big gulp of my soda I decided to just tell them now.
�I have something to tell you guys.� I said.
�Okay.� Dad said, waiting for me to say more.
�I�ve thought about this long and hard and I made this decision a couple of weeks ago. I�m asking Mackenzie to marry me.� I said and I looked between my mother and father for their reaction. Mom just looked down and continued eating her food as Dad took a sip of his water.
�Aren�t you going to say anything?� I asked.
�Are you sure you�re ready for this?� Dad asked.
�Positive. I love Mackenzie.�
�Yes, you�ve loved her since you were eighteen. Does that mean you were ready to marry her then?� Dad asked and I narrowed my eyes.
�Dad, I�m ready to marry her. I mean why should I wait anymore?� I asked. Dad just shrugged.
�I just want you to be sure.�
�Mom?� I asked looking at her and she smiled with tears in her eyes.
�Well, I hope she says yes.� Mom said and I got up and hugged her.
�Don�t cry.�
�You�re my last one.� She sighed.
�Angel and Leslie aren�t married.� I said.
�I know, but you�re the baby.� She said. Here we go with the baby stuff again. My parents didn�t have much to say after that. Later that night, I decided to wait at Mac�s condo so I�d be there when she got in. I waited up as long as I could before falling asleep with her puppy in my arms.

I was sitting in my New York office having a staff meeting. The Spotlight tour for this year came up.
�Are we going to be doing it?� Connie asked.
�Well, we definitely have it in our budget. You and Jeff look into it and see who we can get this year. Maybe I�ll make some calls too, but I don�t want to do it until the summer.� I said and they nodded. After the meeting, I looked around my old office and smiled at all the memories it held. I headed home to my parents� house and started packing my bags. I missed home, but I really didn�t think of New York as my home anymore. It was more of a business outlet. I always went into heavy business mode when I was in the city, whereas in Florida, I still worked a lot, but I had a few distractions. I smiled thinking of Aaron. We lasted four years so far and I couldn�t imagine the rest of my life without him.

�Mackenzie, dinner�s ready!� My father�s deep voice called. I ran down the stairs and sat at the table. I wished my sisters could have had dinner with us tonight. It took the pressure off me. My father loved to pick on us and as we got older, it became harder to find things to pick apart. He still had one thing he bothered me about though.
�So is Aaron going to be waiting for you when you get back at his Mommy and Daddy�s house?� I rolled my eyes.
�No, he has a key to my place.� I sighed.
�But he won�t move in with you?� Mom asked.
�Mom, I told you I don�t believe in moving in with someone before we�re married. It�s bad luck.�
�Do you think he can propose sometime while I�m young?� My father asked with that evil smirk on his face. He loved to bother me about Aaron proposing to me. I didn�t put any pressure on Aaron to get married.

We got together when he was young and I never want him to feel trapped into doing things sooner than he has to, just because I�m twenty-seven and I�d like to get married by thirty.
�Dad, come on. Leave us alone.� I sighed, tired of this conversation.
�I still don�t know what he�s waiting for.�
�He�s only twenty-two.�
�Mackenzie, that�s what you get for getting so serious with a kid.�
�Dad, I�m perfectly happy with my relationship with Aaron.� And I was.
�He�s never going to grow up.� My father went on.
�Oh you mean because he still goes to clubs like you do?� I shot at him.
�Yeah, Aaron and I go hang out at the strip clubs.� I rolled my eyes. Now he was going to joke around with me about how Aaron picks up chicks at strip clubs. I just laughed along to shut him up and show him that it didn�t bother me.

After dinner, I went back to my old bedroom to pack. My cell phone rang and I looked at the caller ID and smiled.
�Keely!� I answered.
�Mac, what are you doing?� She asked.
�Packing to go back to Florida.�
�Oh you�re in New York right now?� Keely asked.
�Yeah. Where are you right now?� I wondered. Lately, it�s been hard to keep up with Keely and her busy acting career. After her TV show took off, she was doing movies and all kinds of things.
�I�m in Texas. We just started filming three days ago.�
�Cool. How�s it going so far?�
�Good. Listen, I�m going to be taking a vacation in a few weeks and I wanted to come visit you guys.� Keely said and I grinned.
�Yay!� I said excitedly and she laughed.
�Will it be okay if I stay with you?�
�Of course it will be. Just let me know when you�re coming and Trista and I will pick you up at the airport.� I said.
�Okay. Thanks Mac. Have a safe trip home and I�ll talk to you soon.�
�Bye Keels.� I said hanging up.

After I was finished packing, I said goodbye to my Dad and my Mom drove me to the airport. I slept the entire way to Florida. When I landed, I got my car out of the parking lot and drove it home. I was so tired by the time I made my way up the beach to my door. I loved my condo. It was comforting to be right near the ocean. I unlocked the door and one of my dogs came running to me.
�Hey Sprinkles, where�s my other baby?� I asked kissing her nose. I dropped my bags and placed my keys on the table. I walked into the bedroom and saw a lump on the bed. I assumed it was Aaron and I smiled to myself. He always tried to wait up for me, but never lasted. I turned on the light and saw that my new puppy was cuddled in his arms. I sat on the edge of the bed as the puppy, Mocha tried to get out of Aaron�s grasp to greet me. I leaned over and kissed his head before placing my lips on Aaron�s forehead.

�Baby, I�m home.� I whispered.
�Mmm�� I leaned further down and kissed Aaron�s lips softly.
�Mocha stop it.� This time I bit his lip. �Oww�� Aaron yelled causing both dogs to bark and he jumped up, knocking into my jaw.
�Ouch!� I whined in pain.
�Mackenzie, what the hell just happened?� Aaron asked. I laughed as I still held my jaw in pain.
�I was trying to wake you up, but you thought I was the dog.�
�Well, Mocha bit me.� Aaron said readjusting his eyes to the light.
�I bit you for thinking I was the dog.�
�Serves you right then.� Aaron chuckled, crawling over to me and pulling me down onto the bed.
�Welcome home.� He said kissing me. Mmm, I could kiss Aaron forever.
�I missed you.� I said pressing my forehead against his.
�I missed you too. How was your trip?� He asked.
�Tiring.� I said yawning.
�Take off your clothes and come to bed.� Aaron said and I raised an eyebrow.
�That�s not going to get me any sleep.� I laughed and Aaron grinned.
�I know. I just want to feel your skin against mine.� He said and I nodded. We both stripped and kicked the dogs out of the bed before cuddling together under the blanket.
�Good night Aaron.�
�Good night Mac.� Aaron said kissing me and resting his head on my chest. He hardly ever used a pillow anymore and I found it pretty amusing. He got this stupid grin on his face.

�What are we doing this weekend?� I asked, knowing his family usually got together for dinner on Sundays.
�Tomorrow I have to run some errands, but at night I just want it to be me and you.� Aaron said.
�And Sunday we�re going to your parents� house?� I asked.
�We don�t have to if you don�t want to.� Aaron said moving his head to nuzzle it against my neck.
�We haven�t gone in a month.� I sighed
�You haven�t. I have.� Aaron said and I giggled.
�So you�re the one who doesn�t want to go.�
�I do. I do. You know Mom will be calling you up and blaming you if I stop making appearances.� Aaron said.
�My poor baby.� I said kissing him.
�Are you still tired?� Aaron asked and I laughed.
�I�m a little awake.�
�Can we fool around a little then?�
�Mmm, now that you say that, I�m wide awake.� I grinned running my hand down his chest. Aaron and I fell asleep a little while later and I knew neither of us would wake up before noon.

Chapter 2

I woke up and glanced at the time. It was a little after twelve. I sighed and sat up. Sprinkles and Mocha were sleeping where Aaron had been. I got out of bed and pulled a t-shirt on before walking downstairs.
�Come on pups, you wanna go out?� I asked. The dogs came running out and I opened the door to my small backyard for them. I noticed Aaron�s car wasn�t in the driveway and I remembered him saying he had to run some errands.

I took a shower and after I was dressed, I let the dogs back in and poured myself a glass of orange juice. I sat down and flipped through the backed up mail for the week. There was a letter from Erica and I sighed. She kept in touch with me for some reason. Erica had pretty much been shunned from our circle of friends after she almost ruined Nick and Trista�s relationship. She was a complete bitch to me, to Aaron�she practically broke Mike�s heart and on top of that, she got pregnant by my ex-boyfriend. Erica could have had a great singing career. Between Jane and I, we could have taken her to the top. Erica just didn�t have the right personality for it. Let�s face it, she was at times psychotic. For some reason, she chose to stay in touch with me. I think she feels she owes me something after I stood by her when she first found out she was pregnant.

All I did was make sure she went to the doctor and was there with her when she broke the news to Jane. I didn�t put much of an effort back to her though. She wrote letters and kept me updated on her daughter, Eryn, but I just sent an e-mail to her once in a while and mailed Christmas and birthday cards to them. I opened the letter and there was another picture of Eryn with it. She was so adorable and she was growing so fast. I put her picture up on the refrigerator and opened the letter. It was a house that Eryn drew. I smiled and put that up next to the picture.

I picked up the phone and dialed my best friend.
�Hello?� Nick answered.
�Hey Nicky.�
�Hey Mac. Are you back in Florida?�
�Yup. I was wondering if you guys were up for a little company.�
�I�d love to see you, but I have to go out right now. Trista�s here if you want to stop by though.� Nick said.
�Of course. How�s she doing anyway?� I asked.
�Not bad. The heat�s starting to get to her. I have to wear a jacket to bed practically.� Nick laughed.
�Oh man. Should I bring a sweater with me?� I wondered.
�You might want to bring a little something.� Nick said.
�Okay. Well, tell Trista I�ll be over in like twenty minutes.�
�Okay Mac. I�ll talk to you later.�
�Bye Nick.�

After I hung up the phone, I grabbed my bag, cell phone, a light jacket and slipped my shoes on before heading out to my car. I drove along the highway until I saw the exit for Nick and Trista�s house. I turned onto their street and pulled into their driveway. I rang the doorbell and waited until Trista opened the door.
�Hey!� She cheered and I hugged her the best I could with her six-month pregnant stomach between us.
�How are you doing?� I asked as she welcomed me inside. I glanced around the house and it looked like Toys R Us blew up in their living room.
�Good. Is it hot in here?� Trista asked checking the thermostat.
�Not really.� I said rubbing my arms. �Um, what�s with all the toys?� I asked.
�Oh, let�s just say while you were away Nick and Aaron got a little crazy and started buying everything in sight for the baby.� Trista said rolling her eyes.
�That�s too cute.� I said and I picked up the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles DVD set and laughed. �Somehow I don�t think this is for the baby.� Trista laughed and nodded.
�That�s for my bigger baby.� She eased herself onto the couch and I sat down next to her.
�Do you want something to drink or anything?� Trista asked.
�No thanks. I�m good.�
�I�m so thirsty.� She said about to get up.
�I�ll get it. What do you want?�
�There�s some fruit juice. Can you bring me some of that?�
�Sure.� I said walking into the kitchen. I poured Trista a glass of juice as I glanced at the sonogram on the refrigerator and smiled. I couldn�t wait until the baby arrived.

I walked back into the living room and handed Trista her juice before sitting down next to her again.
�Thanks.� She said before gulping down the juice. �So how was New York?�
�Eh, it was okay. Business went well.�
�And your parents?�
�Still bugging me about Aaron and when he�s going to propose and ugh, it depresses me every time I go there.� I said rolling my eyes.
�Aww, Mac. I�m sorry. You know Aaron loves you.�
�Trista, of course I know that. I am in no rush to get married and I�m happy with my relationship. I don�t need a ring on my finger to make me feel secure.� I sighed.
�I know.�

�Oh, you know who stopped by the other day?�
�Who?� I asked.
�Lucas and Leslie.�
�They�re in town?� I wondered.
�Yup. They�ll be at dinner tomorrow. Guess who�s moving here?�
�Who?� I wondered.
�Jackie.�
�Jackie as in Salvucci?� I asked surprised.
�That�s the one.�
�I thought he was a Boston man for the rest of his life now?� I laughed, remembering him saying that when he started his solo career.
�Well, he changed his mind once he saw Leslie�s place. He will also be at dinner tomorrow.�
�Cool. I haven�t seen him in a while.�
�Aaron still isn�t weird around him is he?� Trista asked.
�No, he�s over it. I mean I still see him watching Jackie closely if we�re talking together or something, but I do the same thing to him if he�s talking to Hilary or Lindsay.� I shrugged.

I spent the rest of the afternoon at Trista�s and with each hour, the temperature in the house went lower and lower. By the time, Aaron had called me to tell me our plans for that night; I had one of Nick�s sweatshirts on and a blanket. Nick walked through the door with a big grin on. Trista and I looked at him curiously.
�What are you all smiley about?� Trista asked as he kissed her hello and then hugged me.
�Nothing.� Nick shrugged and then grabbed the blanket off me to wrap around himself.
�Hey!� I protested.
�I�m cold.� Nick said plopping down on the couch, wiggling between Trista and I.
�Fine. I have to go home to get ready for tonight.� I said standing up and shivering.
�Where are you going tonight?� Trista asked.
�I don�t know. Aaron wants me to wear a dress, so I guess it�s some place fancy.� I shrugged.
�Okay. Well, I�ll see you tomorrow.� Trista said and I leaned over and hugged her, so she wouldn�t have to get up. I hugged Nick before making my way out to the car.

I got back to my house and called out to Aaron, but I got no answer. I went upstairs and decided to re-shower in order to get ready for tonight. I decided on a baby pink mesh dress that ruffled in the front, kind of like a Spanish style in case dancing would be involved. Once I was ready, I called Aaron�s cell phone and waited for him to answer.

I got out of bed early and quickly dressed before heading out of the house. I dialed Nick�s number and asked him to meet me at the jewelry store in a couple of hours and I had called BJ last night before Mackenzie got in. I made all the arrangements I had planned for tonight and made sure everything was taken care of before I made it to the jewelry store just in time. I waited for Nick and BJ outside of the store and I saw her car pull up a few minutes later. She was always on time. She got out smiling at me and hugging me.

�You�re really going to go through with it?� BJ asked. I nodded nervously and BJ hugged me again.
�Are you nervous?� She asked.
�A little.�
�Aww, I can�t believe my baby brother�s settling down.� BJ said pinching my cheek and I rolled my eyes.
�Nothing�s changing, but me getting married.�
�Aaron, marriage makes a big difference, so don�t cast it off as just something to do.� BJ lectured me.
�I�m not. Marrying Mackenzie is very important to me and I know some things will change, but it doesn�t mean our lives have to stop.� I sighed.
�No, but you have to take responsibility for things now.�
�I�m responsible.� I said somewhat offended.
�Sure, you are.� BJ said and I looked at her kind of annoyed before noticing Nick�s car pulling up.

He looked pissed off that I had pulled him out of his bed on a Saturday morning, though it was afternoon now.
�Thanks for coming bro.� I said doing our handshake.
�No problem. Now can you tell me what the hell�s going on?� Nick asked as he kissed BJ�s cheek.
�I�m asking Mackenzie to marry me tonight.� I said and Nick looked pretty shocked.
�Wow�congratulations man!� Nick said hugging me.
�Thanks, but she hasn�t said yes yet.� I laughed.
�She will. You have the ring?�
�Not yet. I wanted to get it yesterday, but Craig went with me and he was no help.�
�Wait, you told Craig before you told me?� Nick asked annoyed. I sighed.
�I didn�t tell you because you�d tell Trista.�
�So?� Nick asked.
�Trista would tell Mackenzie and you know it.� BJ said knowing where I was coming from and Nick shrugged.
�Okay, you have a point.�

We walked into the jewelry store and the same guy who waited on me yesterday was there.
�Would you like to see the ring again Mr. Carter?� He asked.
�Yes, please.� I said and the jeweler went to the back to get the ring.
�Now, I want the ring to be perfect. I could have went bigger and all, but you know Mac. She�s not really flashy.� I said and they both nodded. The jeweler came back and unwrapped the ring from the velvet piece of fabric.
�Wow�� BJ said and I took that as a good sign.
�Dude, that ring is beautiful.� Nick said. I smiled.
�Do you think this is the one?� I asked as BJ was inspecting it.
�Definitely.� Nick said.
�Beedge, does it have your approval?�
�Oh yeah. This ring is amazing. I never saw a heart shaped engagement ring.�
�Me either before this one.� I said before looking up at the jeweler.
�I�ll take it.� I said and he nodded at me.
�I�ll go get the box for it and I�ll bill it to your account.� The jeweler said and I thanked him. He came back a couple of minutes later with a receipt and the ring.
�Good luck Mr. Carter.� He said and I smiled.

We walked outside and I sighed.
�Wanna get some lunch?� Nick asked.
�Sure. BJ?� I asked looking at her.
�Yeah, I just have to make sure Billy�s okay.� She said pulling out her cell phone.
�What�s wrong with Billy?� I asked. Billy was BJ�s husband. He�s a tour production assistant and they met on Leslie�s tour about two years ago. He�s a pretty cool guy. He can be a little dry sometimes, but BJ always dated kind of wild men and we were all happy she found someone who treated her right and who wasn�t always partying. I�m just glad she didn�t end up marrying Mike. I mean that relationship was just weird to me, to all of us really. BJ was too bossy for Mike anyway.
�Billy came down with the flu this week, right after we left your house.� BJ said pointing toward Nick.

�What are you blaming me for your husband being sick now?� Nick asked as BJ turned away to talk on the phone. I laughed.
�It�s your damn house. It�s too cold.�
�Tell me about it. I don�t know how much more I can deal with these hot flashes or whatever they are. I�ll be wearing a ski cap and a blanket and Trista�s practically sweating.� Nick said shaking his head. I smiled.
�You gotta love her.�
�Yeah, yeah.� Nick sighed.
�Okay, ready?� BJ asked putting her phone away. We all headed off to a restaurant we regularly went to. It was nice just having lunch together. Usually, when I see BJ, it�s on Sundays and I don�t really get to talk to her as much as I�d like to because Angel steals her away.

After lunch, I said goodbye to Nick and BJ and they wished me luck. I finished up any last minute details before heading to my house. I called Mac to arrange the plans before I took a quick nap since I was still kind of tired from yesterday. When I woke up, I started getting ready. I even gelled my hair like Mac liked it, instead of letting it fall into my eyes. I went to walk downstairs, but I passed Angel�s room on the way and the door was opened a crack.

�Hey Ang�how do I look?� I asked coming in as I knocked. Angel lifted her head from her pillow and she looked kind of upset.
�Really nice. Good luck tonight.� She said before laying her head back down.
�Is everything okay?� I asked.
�Yeah, I�m just tired.�
�Oh yeah, how was the rave?�
�It sucked.� Angel said, her words mumbled through the pillow.
�Oh sorry to hear that. I�ll see you tomorrow and I�ll let you know what happens.� I said.
�Okay. Have a good time.� Angel said not looking up at me. I walked out of her room, shrugging off her weird behavior. Angel got in her moods from time to time. I walked into the kitchen and got Mackenzie�s flowers from the refrigerator.
�You look nice.� Mom said.
�Thanks.�

�Are you nervous?� She asked.
�Yeah. What if she says no?�
�Aaron, I don�t think that�s even a possibility.� Mom said smoothing my shirt for me.
�Thanks Mom.� I said, really feeling comforted by her words. I really did appreciate her at times like these.
�I�m happy for you.� Mom said hugging me.
�Thank you. I�ll see you tomorrow and I guess you�ll know what happens when we walk in the door.� I chuckled.
�I guess so. I apologize in advance if I cry tomorrow.� Mom said with a laugh.
�Don�t worry about it.� I said kissing her cheek. I walked out to my car and sat inside for a few moments before taking a deep breath and turning the key. It was like my destiny was awaiting me tonight. Nothing will ever be the same in my life again.

Chapter 3

I waited outside for Aaron. The air was a little cool and I debated grabbing a jacket or not as Aaron�s car pulled up. I smiled at him and walked over to the car. I opened the door and slid in.
�You look beautiful as usual.� He said and I loved how he was so open with compliments. I leaned in and kissed him.
�And of course, you�re looking hot. I like your hair.� I said running my hand through the tips of it.
�Thanks.� He said before pulling out of the driveway
�So where are we going?� I asked.
�It�s a surprise.�
�Ooh, what�s the special occasion?� I wondered.
�Just you coming back home.�
�Are you sure you�re not feeling guilty for something you did wrong while I was gone?� I teased. Aaron just laughed, but I sensed some kind of nervousness.
�I just like being spontaneous once in a while.� He said. A little while later, we pulled into an open field. I looked at Aaron.
�Grass is very spontaneous.�
�Smart ass. Just get out of the car.� Aaron said shaking his head and opening the car door. I got out of the car and Aaron went over to the backseat and picked up a bouquet of roses before handing them to me.
�Thank you.� I grinned at him and I was still curious as to what he was up to.

Aaron took my hand in his and pulled me through the field.
�Aar, this is kind of creepy.� I said and he laughed.
�We�re almost there.�
�How can you tell? We�re surrounded by nothing.�
�I can just tell and we�re here.� Aaron said just as we came down a hill. My mouth dropped. A hot air balloon was sitting there with two men standing by it.
�We�re going on a hot air balloon ride?� I asked.
�Yup.� Aaron said pulling me toward it.
�But I�m afraid.� I said stopping him.
�Mackenzie, you said you wanted to overcome your fear of heights.� Aaron said pulling me again.
�Okay, but I�m keeping my eyes closed.� I said and Aaron just laughed.
�Hi Jose. This is my girlfriend Mackenzie.� Aaron introduced me.
�Hello Mackenzie.� Jose said shaking my hand.
�Hi.�
�Are you ready?� Jose asked.
�How safe are these things?� I wondered.
�Very safe. You have nothing to worry about.� Jose assured me. The other man opened the door to the basket and motioned for me to get on.

I stepped on and Aaron stepped in after me before closing the door.
�What are you doing? Doesn�t Jose have to get on?� I asked.
�No, Mr. Aaron knows how to work it.�
�What?� I asked wide-eyed.
�Mac, it�s completely safe. Stop worrying.� Aaron laughed at me.
�Jose, I don�t trust him. Please come with us.� I begged as he and the other guy made quick work of the ropes and Aaron started the balloon.
�Sorry, Ms. Mackenzie.� Jose said waving as the balloon started to lift from the ground.
�Aaron, get me down right now.� I said.
�Mackenzie, you once told me you wanted to go skydiving. I figured this would be a more calm approach for you.� Aaron said and I looked down one last time, regretting it immediately. �Calm down.� Aaron said and I slid to the floor of the balloon and waited until we were steady and Aaron had turned his attention back toward me. �Give me your hand.� He said and I did as he asked. Aaron pulled me up and into his arms. �Look.� He whispered and I looked out and it was so amazing to have clouds all around us. I smiled and rested my head on his shoulder.

�You still mad at me for making you go on?�
�No. This is really romantic. Thank you.� I said looking up at him and kissing him.
�Want some champagne?�
�We have some up here?� I asked.
�Yup, I came prepared.� Aaron said grabbing a bottle of champagne. He poured us each some champagne and we clanked glasses.
�There�s another reason why I brought you up here.�
�Oh, other than trying to freak me out?�
�Yeah. It�s really serious.� Aaron said and his jaw tensed. My heart pounded against my chest. Something was wrong.
�Okay. I�m here for you. What�s wrong?� I asked concerned. Aaron gulped.
�I found this in my pocket this morning�� He said going through his jacket. �Do you mind telling me what it�s doing there?� Aaron asked sounding annoyed.

Aaron pulled out his hand from his pocket and opened it up to reveal a ring. A beautiful engagement ring was lying in Aaron�s hand. My eyes widened and my mouth dropped. I looked at Aaron�s face and he started smiling.
�No�� I said and Aaron looked confused.
�You could at least wait until I ask you.� Aaron said and I laughed.
�You�re not��
�I am.� Aaron said taking the ring between his thumb and middle finger.
�Oh wow.� I smiled as tears ran down my cheeks and I started shaking.
�Can I ask already?� Aaron laughed.
�Yeah�wait, you have to get down on one knee.� I said and Aaron groaned.
�Do you want me to do this or not?� He asked. I pouted.
�Sorry.� I said and Aaron smiled and got down on one knee.
�Mackenzie, someone told me once that love seemed like you were flying. Your love has taken me higher than this balloon could ever go. I love you. So will you marry me?� Aaron asked and the tears just kept falling.
�I love you too and yes, of course I�ll marry you.� I said pulling him off his knees. He slid the ring on my finger and I kissed him deeply before we just held each other. I looked at the ring and it was incredible. �You made me the happiest girl in the world.� I sighed into his chest.

Mackenzie said yes and I could breathe again. Once we got back on the ground, I helped Mac out of the balloon and we started back toward the car.
�I don�t know about you, but I�m starving.�
�What else is new?� Mac laughed.
�So did you expect it?� I wondered as we got in the car.
�Not at all. How long have you been planning this?�
�For like two weeks now.�
�Wow, did anyone know you were proposing?�
�Yeah, my family and Craig know. I just told Nick, so I�m guessing Trista knows now too.� I chuckled and Mac nodded.
�How does your Mom feel about it?�
�Actually, she�s happy for us.� I grinned and Mac looked a little surprised as she smiled.
�I can�t believe we�re engaged.� Mac said leaning her head back on the seat and I could tell that was all I was going to hear for the next month.

Mackenzie and I got to the restaurant and I ate like crazy as she just went on about telling her family, planning the wedding and all that kind of crap. I didn�t mind though. I�m glad I made her that happy.
�Mac, eat baby.� I said.
�I�m too excited to.� She laughed.
�Aww, can I have your food then?� I asked and Mac handed me her plate. I�m a slob, I know. I practically starved all day because I was nervous. Even at lunch with Nick and BJ, I ordered an appetizer instead of a meal.
�I�m such a dork. I mean here I am going on and on about the wedding when we haven�t even been engaged for like two minutes. I�m sorry if I�m scaring you off.� Mac laughed.
�If you haven�t scared me off already, you won�t ever. I have three sisters and believe me, I remember how bad BJ was with the wedding and I�m sure Leslie won�t be any better.� I sighed.
�I want you to be apart of it all though.� Mac said. I nodded.
�I will. Just as long as my family, my close friends, you and my dogs are there�then I�m happy.� I grinned and Mac laughed.
�Well, if your dogs get to be there then Sprinkles and Mocha are added to the list.�
�Right.� I nodded, taking a mouthful of pasta.

�Ooh, can I have a bite?� She asked and I laughed.
�I thought you were too excited to eat?�
�Yeah, but that looks too good to pass up.� She said and I fed her a forkful before placing the plate back near her.
�No, you can finish.�
�Mackenzie, eat.�
�No, really I�m okay.�
�Okay, but don�t whine to me later when you�re hungry.� I sighed pulling her plate back over to me. We finished up dinner and I paid the bill before we headed to the connecting dance room. We danced for a little while before heading back to Mackenzie�s condo. Mackenzie led the way to her bedroom and we made post-engagement love, which I have to say was pretty awesome. You make a woman happy and you get rewarded. I was so happy to know that this girl lying in my arms would be mine forever.

I woke up in the middle of the night and Mackenzie wasn�t in bed. I put my boxers on and headed downstairs to the kitchen where Mac was rummaging through the cabinets. I shook my head and watched her ass as her shirt lifted up when she reached to open and close each cabinet. I wrapped my arms around her from behind and she jumped in my arms.
�You scared the hell out of me.� She sighed and I kissed the back of her neck.
�I told you you�d be hungry.�
�Yeah, you were right.� Mac said grabbing some peanut butter. She turned around and hopped up on the counter. I handed her a spoon and she smiled at me before wrapping her legs around my waist. I moved my hands under her shirt as she ate and fed me peanut butter. We started kissing and I turned my head and noticed a picture on the refrigerator.
�Who�s that?� I wondered.
�Who?� Mac asked stopping her assault on my neck and looking where I was.
�That little girl.�
�Oh, that�s Eryn. Erica�s daughter.� Mac said kissing my neck again.
�Why�d you put it up on the refrigerator?�
�I don�t know.� Mac shrugged as her hands reached down and grabbed my ass. I couldn�t help but to look at the picture of this little girl. She looked so familiar. Almost like a Carter. I pushed the thought out of my head as I lifted Mackenzie off the counter and brought her back to the bedroom, peanut butter and all.

Chapter 4

I woke up to the phone ringing. I looked around the room and called out to Mackenzie, but got no answer. I heard the shower running and Mac singing something about �Will you marry me boy?� Must be a song from before my time. I reached over Mocha and picked up the phone.
�Hello?� All I got was a scream in response. �Sorry wrong number.� I said about to hang up and then I heard laughing.
�Wait, Aaron�it�s Keely.�
�Oh hey. I thought you were a fan who found Mac�s number somehow.� I laughed.
�Sorry. I just heard the news.�
�How?� I wondered.
�Mac left a message on my voicemail late last night. Congratulations!�
�Thank you.� I smiled.
�So how does it feel?�
�I don�t know. It�s too early to think.� I joked.
�It�s almost one o�clock Aaron.�
�Oh, well I went to bed late. Give me a break.� I said sitting up.

�Where is your fianc�e?� She asked.
�I like the sound of that.� I grinned.
�Well, where is she?� Keely giggled.
�In the shower.�
�Okay, well tell her I called and I know she mentioned dinner at your house. So she can call me tomorrow or whatever.�
�Okay, will do. How are you by the way?� I asked.
�I�m good. I�ve been busy, but I�m taking a vacation in a couple of weeks.�
�Good. You should come visit.� I suggested.
�I�m already ahead of you. I�m staying with Mac.�
�Cool. We�ll par-tay like old times.� I laughed.
�Yup. See you soon. Bye Aaron.�
�Bye Keely.� I said hanging up.

I got up and walked into the bathroom.
�What the hell song are you singing?� I asked and I could hear Mac jump in the shower.
�Stop scaring me!� She yelled. I chuckled. �It�s a Paula Abdul song.� Mac said. I took a piss and then brushed my teeth.
�Don�t touch the cookies I made for tonight.�
�Why do we sound like we�re married already?� I asked with a laugh before walking out of the bathroom. I searched through my drawer in Mac�s dresser and changed into a t-shirt and sweatpants. Mac came out of the bathroom in a towel. �I�m going to pick up some wine for tonight and maybe stop by Craig�s for a little.� I said and Mac nodded. I kissed her softly and grabbed my car keys before heading out the door.

I got to Craig�s place and he was nowhere to be found. I got back in my car and dialed his cell.
�Hello?�
�Where are you man?�
�I�m at your house.�
�My house? What are you doing there?� I wondered.
�I thought you�d be home, but now I�m just chilling with Angel.�
�Oh, no I just left Mac�s a little while ago.�
�I take it she said yes?�
�Of course.� I smiled.
�Congratulations, man.�
�Thanks. Listen, I�m running to the store and then I�ll be over there. You gonna hang around for dinner?� I asked.
�Yeah, okay.�
�Cool. See ya.�
�Bye Aaron.� Craig said and I hung up the phone. I wonder if Angel spotted him at the rave and he gave me away.

After I left the liquor store, I headed to my house. I walked upstairs and just as I was about to go in my room, I heard Mom.
�Aaron, is that you?� She called from her bedroom.
�Yeah. I�m going in the shower.� I announced.
�Wait, come here.� She said and I groaned. I walked into her room and she was putting clean laundry into her drawers. �How�d it go last night?� Mom asked.
�You�ll find out soon enough.� I grinned.
�So there�s another wedding to plan?� Mom asked. I rolled my eyes with a laugh and she hugged me.
�What do you mean another wedding?� Dad asked coming up behind us.
�Leslie�s and now mine.� I said.
�Leslie is never going to get married.� Mom sighed.
�Yeah, she will. They�re just taking their time with it.� I laughed.
�Lucas and Leslie have been engaged for almost a year now.� Mom said, almost annoyed about it.
�Well, don�t worry. Mac and I don�t believe in long engagements.�
�You better get ready. Dinner�s at five, but everyone�s coming at four.� Mom said and I nodded.

I took a quick shower and got dressed. I brushed my hair and dried it, letting it do whatever it wanted. I walked downstairs looking for Craig and Angel, but they weren�t around. I don�t even remember seeing Craig�s car in the driveway. Dad came down the stairs and walked into the kitchen. I followed him.
�Where�s Craig and Angel?�
�I don�t know.� Dad shrugged and went to walk away.
�What did I do?� I asked.
�What do you mean?�
�You�re giving me the cold shoulder.� I sighed.
�I am not.�
�Is it over me getting married?�
�I said my peace over that already.� Dad answered.
�Then why are you still giving me a problem?�
�What do you want me to do Aaron?�
�Congratulate me and say, �I�m happy for you son� or some crap like that.�
�You�d rather me lie?�
�No, I rather you support my decision.�
�I�m sorry.� Dad said.
�I expected Mom to give me the problem, not you.�
�Your mother�s looking for you to show responsibility for something. I know better. You�re not ready.�

�Dad, Mackenzie�s going to be here today and she�s really in a good mood about this and all, so maybe you should just stay away from us tonight and not say anything.� I said getting really pissed off now.
�You�re going to order me to be quiet in MY house?�
�I�m just saying out of respect for me and Mackenzie, don�t say anything.� I said walking away. I decided to let the dogs out in the yard for a little while. I let some cusses run off my tongue while I was out there until I heard a car pull up. I let the dogs back inside and I walked back out to the gate to see Craig and Angel hugging. What the fuck was going on? I didn�t want to just come charging out on them and accusing them of shit, but I�ve seen this pattern before. Mike is Nick�s best friend. BJ and Mike started getting friendlier. Mike was checking out BJ. Next thing I know, we find out they were dating behind our backs. If Craig was trying to pull this shit on me, God help him�he better tell me now. Plus, I didn�t know what was up with Angel lately. People think I�m the reckless, partying one and yeah, I like to have a good time, but Mackenzie could tell you, I�m not doing anything wrong.

I occasionally get out of hand and have one too many drinks, but I always end up at Mac�s or at home. It�s not like I wind up in some strange woman�s bed or with a new tattoo I didn�t plan on getting. Angel on the other hand, well she�s a different story. A lot of people think it�s weird that we hang out together so much. Angel finds it annoying, but I�m just looking out for her and she knows that. On more than one occasion, I had broken up fights between girls and Angel over some guy she had started dancing with or just because she looked at them the wrong way. The truth is, I wouldn�t go to as many clubs as I have been if it weren�t for Angel. She doesn�t get shit from anyone about it though. Mom�s even tried to lecture Mackenzie over me going out so much. I wish they would just open their eyes and I wish Angel would just grow up.

I walked back inside the house and I heard another car pull up. A few minutes later, Craig, Angel, Leslie, Lucas and Jackie made their way into the house. Jackie? What the hell was he doing here?
�Hey Aaron.� Leslie said hugging me.
�Hey Les.� I said.
�What�s up Luc?� I asked shaking his hand.
�Long time no see man.� I said shaking Jackie�s hand.
�Hey Aaron.�
�Jackie�s moving to Marathon.� Leslie announced.
�Really? Why?� I wondered.
�I love the weather and it�s nice here.� Jackie shrugged.
�Plus, it would be easier for us since I manage Jackie now.� Lucas said. I nodded, but part of me wondered if Mackenzie was considered when he came to his decision to move here.
�Where�s Mac?� Jackie asked and I clenched my fists. I didn�t have anything against Jackie, but I still felt a little uneasy around him considering he and Mac had a fling. Okay, I guess you can say I�m insecure about it, but I can�t help it.
�She should be here soon.� I said and then I glanced over at Craig. Angel was gone again.

�Where�d Angel go?� I asked.
�Upstairs.� Craig answered.
�Oh�Angel!� I yelled.
�Aaron, she has a headache.� Craig said. Okay, when did my best friend become Angel�s bodyguard? Well, besides the fact that I asked him to be the other night.

I pulled up to the Carter house and got the cookies that I baked out of the backseat. I rang the doorbell and I could hear the dogs barking. Nick opened the door and wrapped me into a hug.
�I smell cookies.� Nick said, his eyes lighting up.
�You smelled correctly.� I laughed.
�I love you.� He grinned.
�I know.� I said and we walked into the kitchen.
�Everyone�s in the dining room.� I placed the cookies on the table and followed Nick into the dining room, where everyone was standing around.
�Mackenzie!� Leslie said throwing her arms around me.
�Hey.� I said and then I noticed Jackie standing next to Lucas.
�Well, look who came here all the way from Boston.� I laughed before hugging Jackie. I greeted everyone else.

�Trista, you�re sweating.� I commented.
�No one will turn up the air conditioner for me.� She said fanning herself. I laughed.
�Sorry hon, majority rules.�
�What about lady with the biggest belly rules?� She asked and we just laughed at her. Aaron came into the room and grinned at me.
�Hey baby.� He said kissing me lightly. Jane and Bob came into the room.
�Hello Mackenzie.� Jane said kissing me hello and I saw her glance down at my engagement ring.
�Hi Jane.�
�Hey Bob.� I said kissing him hello. I noticed a certain coldness between he and Aaron.
�Where�s Angel?� I wondered.
�I�ll go get her.� Craig said walking out of the room. Aaron�s eyes followed him.
�Sit down everyone.� Jane said and we all did as she asked.

We waited in silence for Craig and Angel to return, but I felt like everyone was staring at Aaron and I. I guess they were waiting for the big announcement. Angel and Craig came to the table.
�Hey Angel.� I said and she just smiled at me faintly before sitting down. Something was definitely wrong.
�So?� Jane asked looking at Aaron.
�Oh, right. I won�t keep you in suspense anymore. Last night, I asked Mackenzie to marry me.� Aaron grinned.
�And?� BJ asked.
�I said yes.� I smiled holding up my left hand. Everyone started shouting out congratulations and asking if they could see the ring. We started eating dinner, but our discussion kept going.

�So now we can plan our weddings together.� Leslie grinned.
�Yeah.�
�Leslie, have you and Lucas set a date yet?� Jane questioned.
�Well, we�re trying to find a time that we both know we�ll be able to properly plan the wedding.� Leslie said. It was the one thing that her and Jane argued about anymore.
�We were thinking in the fall.� Lucas said.
�Well, you better decide or else you won�t have much time to plan a wedding.� Jane sighed.
�So when were you and Aaron thinking of getting married?� BJ asked.
�Umm�� I said looking at Aaron.
�We haven�t even talked about it yet. Definitely before the New Year.� Aaron said looking at me.
�Yeah, fall maybe?� I asked.
�September?� Aaron asked. I smiled.
�The first Saturday in September?� I asked back and Aaron nodded.
�Sounds good.� He grinned.
�Well, I guess we�re getting married in the first weekend of September.� I laughed looking over at everyone else. Everyone had something to say and offered their best for us, even Jackie. I wasn�t surprised or anything, but I was happy that after everything we had been through in the past that nothing was awkward between us. Bob and Angel were both quiet. Okay, so they usually are, but a topic like this would normally get Angel talking about picking out bridesmaids� dresses or something. Bob hardly said congratulations to us and that kind of worried me.

After dinner, Trista and I helped in the kitchen and Jane finally turned up the air conditioner. Trista stopped complaining, but Nick and Aaron started whining.
�Nick, you should be used to cooler temperatures than this by now.� I laughed.
�Yeah, but I came here to get a break from it.� He pouted and Trista stuck her tongue out at him. After the dishes were done, I walked into the living room to see the guys watching a baseball game. I laid my head in Aaron�s lap and he started running his hand through my hair. Before I knew it, I was falling asleep.
�Craig, can I talk to you for a minute?� Aaron asked and my head hit the couch.
�Aaron�� I whined. Aaron laughed.
�Sorry.� He said as he and Craig walked out the front door. I sat up and looked over at Bob.
�Hey Dad.� I smiled.
�Dessert�s on the table.� He sighed before walking away. I looked over at Nick and Trista. Nick caught my glance and got off the couch. He whispered something to Bob and they walked down the hall. A few minutes later, Aaron came running inside the house and stormed up the stairs. Craig followed behind.
�Aaron, no�wait.� Craig said following him. I looked over at Trista and she shrugged.
�There�s always something going on in this family.� I sighed and Trista laughed.
�Always.�

Chapter 5

Craig and I walked outside. The sun was starting to set, but it was kind of warm out still.
�What�s up man?� Craig asked.
�Why don�t you tell me?�
�What are you talking about?� Craig asked, like I was stupid.
�I�m talking about you and my sister.� I sighed.
�Which sister?� Craig asked, and now he was really pissing me off.
�Angel, dumb ass.�
�Nothing�s going on.� He shrugged.
�Bullshit. Angel�s been acting weird and you two have been having secret meetings or whatever.� I said and Craig didn�t respond. My patience was wearing thin. �Are you screwing around with my sister?� I asked.
�What? No Aaron.� Craig said shaking his head.
�Then what the hell�s going on?� I asked.
�Nothing. We�re just talking. What�s the big deal?�

�Craig, you and Angel have known each other since we were like eleven years old. I don�t think I�ve ever seen you two hugging and talking in private.� I gritted.
�What do you fucking spy on us?� Craig asked. I guess he was offended.
�I was in the backyard. I saw you guys over the fence. Are you going to tell me what�s going on or what?� I asked a little more calmly.
�It�s not my place to tell you.� He sighed.
�Okay, so how was the rave the other night?� I asked, trying to see if I can figure out anything.
�It was okay.� He shrugged.
�Did Angel see you?�
�Yeah.�
�You didn�t tell her I sent you, did you?�
�She figured it out Aaron. I don�t think she cared though.�
�Why not?�
�She just didn�t.� Craig said about to walk away, but I grabbed his arm.
�Did something happen at the rave?�
�It�s not my place to say. If Angel wants to tell you, then she can.�
�Did she get into a fight?�
�Aaron��
�Tell me man.� I sighed.
�Some guy got a little aggressive with her.� Craig finally spit out.
�What?� I said, running inside the house.
�Aaron, no�wait.� Craig called after me as he followed me upstairs.

I got to Angel�s room and I knocked, but Craig pulled my fist away.
�Aaron, leave her alone.�
�Don�t tell me to leave my sister alone.� I said annoyed.
�She doesn�t need a lecture right now.� He sighed. The door opened and Angel stood there with her arms folded.
�You told him?� She asked Craig.
�No, I didn�t. He�s just worried.� Craig sighed.
�Tell my Mom we�ll be down in a few minutes.� Angel said and Craig nodded.
�Come in.� Angel said. I walked in and sat on her bed and she closed the door and sat next to me.
�What�s up?� I asked.
�I�m afraid to tell you.�
�Why?�
�I don�t want you to be mad at me.�
�Ang, tell me.�
�The other night at the rave, I was dancing with this guy. I had a little bit too much to drink and I went off alone with him.� Angel said, not even looking at me.
�Angel, never go off with some strange guy at a party.� I scolded.
�I know that Aaron.�
�Do you? I mean, yeah, you were drunk, but if you don�t have enough common sense to--�

�Get out.� Angel said, her voice cracking.
�I�m sorry. I just worry about you. Did he hurt you?� I asked. She nodded and I could tell she was crying. �What did he do to you?� I asked, my jaw tightening.
�He pushed me on the ground and he lifted my skirt and started touching me�� Angel said through sobs. I pulled her close to me and held her as she cried. �I was pushing him away, but he held my hands over my head as he unzipped his pants�� I wanted to kill someone at this point.
�Angel, he didn�t��
�Craig showed up and pulled him off me before he could. He started kicking him and punching him. I just sat there, trying to cover myself and I yelled for Craig to stop.�
�Why?� I asked.
�The last thing I needed was Craig to go down for assaulting someone to death.� Angel said.
�I am so sorry you had to go through that.� I said squeezing her tightly.
�Thank you for sending Craig to watch me. I don�t know what would have happened if you didn�t.� Angel said and I kissed her forehead.

�Did you press charges?� I asked.
�Aaron, I was at an illegal party and drunk out of my mind. I can hardly remember what the guy looked like. I just want to forget it ever happened.�
�Angel, this is why I worry about you so much. You go to these places in next to nothing and you meet your friends there, so you�re alone until they get there�and you start drinking. Do you know how dangerous that is?�
�Now I do.� She said, tears still running down her face. �Don�t worry. I won�t be going out for a while. I just keep feeling his hands on me and it makes me feel so dirty.�
�You�ll be okay. If you need me or BJ or Leslie, just let me know okay?�
�Yeah, thanks Aaron. Right now, I just want some ice cream.� Angel said wiping her face and I nodded.
�Well, come on then.�
�Let me wash my face. You can go down.� Angel said. I nodded and started downstairs.

Aaron came down the stairs, looking upset and mad. He nodded at Craig and they walked into the kitchen. I looked over at Trista and shrugged. A few minutes later, Aaron came back over and sat next to me.
�Are you okay?� I asked.
�Yeah.� Aaron said as Angel sat down across from us. Aaron opened a carton of ice cream and scooped it into a bowl for Angel. She smiled at him gratefully.
�Want some?� Nick asked Trista.
�Yes, my mouth is so dry. I can�t believe you guys aren�t hot.�
�Trista, you�re a pregnant freak.� Lucas laughed.
�Don�t call my daughter-in-law a freak.� Jane defended Trista.
�Thank you Mommy.� Trista grinned.
�Suck up.� I said sticking my tongue out at her.
�Watch it you. I�m still annoyed with you for second guessing on how my pasta would taste with the extra garlic.� Jane warned. I sighed.
�Here we go again.� BJ laughed.
�Jane, it was good, but it didn�t need the extra garlic.� I argued.

�Please, let�s drop this. I hate when you two fight.� Aaron sighed.
�Which they do so often.� Nick snickered.
�It keeps us strong.� Jane said and I shook my head.
�It keeps me with a headache too.�
�Oooh Mac, you want to be disowned from the family before you�re even brought into it.� Leslie warned. I laughed and so did Jane.
�She has a point. You should be extra nice to me now.� Jane said before walking out of the kitchen.
�Yeah right.� I mumbled and everyone laughed.
�I heard that Mackenzie.� Jane yelled from the kitchen and we all laughed again. We finished dessert and I announced I was going to head home.
�I�ll walk you out.� Aaron said.

We walked outside and over to my car.
�You want me to come over later?� Aaron asked. I shrugged.
�I have to get up early.� I sighed.
�Okay, no problem. I�ll call you tomorrow, okay?�
�Yup.� I said and he leaned in to kiss me.
�I love you.� Aaron said.
�Love you too.� I said letting go of his hand and getting in my car.

Once I got home, I felt kind of nauseous. I figured I ate too much or maybe Jane tried to poison me to get back at me for the garlic discussion from a couple of weeks ago. I made myself some tea before plopping down on the couch and flipping through channels. The phone rang and I answered it as Sprinkles hopped up on the couch and rested her head in my lap.
�Hello?�
�Hey, it�s me.� Trista said.
�Hey. What�s up?� I asked.
�Nothing. Nick wants to talk to you.�
�So why didn�t he just call?�
�Because he�s too lazy to dial.� Trista laughed. �Hold on.� She said and I shook my head.
�Mackenzie?�
�Nicky?�
�Yes. Well, I talked to my Dad.�
�And?�
�He�s not too happy about your engagement.�
�Why not?�

�He doesn�t think Aaron�s ready for marriage.�
�What? Nick, do you think that�s the case?� I asked worried.
�No. Aaron�s ready to marry you. It�s like he�s been married to you since he was eighteen anyway.�
�Great, now I�m worried that Aaron�s not ready.�
�Mac, trust me. Don�t worry.� Nick sighed.
�What if he felt pressured?� I asked.
�Did you keep bringing marriage up?�
�No��
�Then why would he feel pressured?� Nick asked laughing.
�I don�t know.�
�My Dad is just going through an old age crisis. If his youngest gets married, it makes him feel even older.� Nick laughed.
�Well, I hope he gets over it.�
�He will. You�re just lucky it�s not Mom who disapproves.�
�Yeah, that kind of surprised me.� I said.
�She thinks you keep Aaron in line.� Nick laughed.

�Me?� I asked kind of shocked.
�Well, you�re such a goody-goody, so I guess she assumes it�s a good influence on Aaron or some shit.�
�I�m a goody-goody?� I asked.
�Yeah. You hardly swear. You don�t do drugs, except for the occasional drink and you�re passive.� Nick said.
�Thanks, I guess.� I laughed.
�You�re welcome.� Nick said.
�Well, I�m going to get to bed. Thanks for the call.�
�No problem. Congratulations again.�
�Thanks. Night.�
�Night.� Nick said and we hung up.

I turned off the TV and put the phone on its base. I stood up and stretched.
�Come on Sprinkles, let�s go to bed. Mocha!� I called. I walked into the bedroom and Mocha was already sleeping in Aaron�s usual spot. I changed into my pajamas and put my clothes in the hamper before going to brush my teeth and going to bed.

Chapter 6

The next week, I got everything back together at work with the help of BJ and Trista. It was freezing in Trista�s office, so I tried to avoid it at all costs since I was wearing a sleeveless dress. At around ten am, I headed to the bathroom because a wave of nausea hit. After I finished getting sick, I put some cold water on my face and walked back out.
�Hey Beedge.� I said walking into her office.
�Hey. I set up the meet-n-greet for Ryan Joy.� BJ said.
�Thanks. Oh, how�s Billy feeling?� I asked.
�He�s getting better.� BJ smiled.
�I think I�m catching whatever he had.� I sighed.
�Really? He had the flu. Do you have a fever?� BJ asked feeling my forehead.
�Nope.� She said.
�Have you been sneezing or anything?�
�No, I�ve just been tired and throwing up.� I said.
�You probably just have a stomach flu then.�
�Well, I hope it passes because this throwing up thing is not very fun.� I said.
�Aww, tell your fianc� to buy you something to settle your stomach.�
�Oh please Aaron will bring over cookies and milk.� I laughed.
�True.� BJ nodded.

When I got home, I fed the dogs and decided to go straight to bed. I woke up to Aaron sitting on the bed.
�Hey sleepy head.� He said tracing my lips with a finger. I bit it playfully. �Long day?� He asked. I nodded.
�What are you doing here?�
�Am I supposed to be somewhere else?� Aaron asked.
�You�re not going out or anything tonight?�
�Alone? Yeah, right.�
�Where�s your accomplice?� I asked with a smirk. I admired Aaron and Angel�s relationship. I wish my brother and I could go to clubs together.
�Angel is staying away from that scene for a while.�
�Really? How did you get her to calm down?� I wondered, knowing he was starting to get worried about her behavior.
�She had an incident last week at a rave.�
�Another cat fight?� Aaron just shook his head.
�Some guy tried to rape her.� Aaron said like he hated to have to say the words. I sat up quickly.
�Oh my God�is she okay?�
�Yeah. That�s why she was acting so weird last week.�
�Wow, I couldn�t imagine being put through that.�
�Well, what about Blake?� Aaron asked.
�Yeah, but I knew it wouldn�t go to that point. I mean Nick and Trista were both there, you know?�
�Yeah, I can�t even think about it. It makes me sick.� Aaron said and I rubbed his back.

�Are you hungry?� Aaron asked.
�Eh, I want something light.�
�Chinese?� I rolled my eyes.
�Aaron, shrimp lo mein is not light.�
�Well how light are we talking here?�
�Like toast and soup light.� I said and Aaron looked disgusted.
�Are you sick or something?� He asked. I just nodded.
�What hurts? I�ll kiss it and make it all better.� Aaron grinned.
�My tummy.� I said and Aaron lifted my shirt and started kissing all around my belly button, which was tickling me. Aaron moved up and started kissing my chest. �I never said it hurt there.�
�No, but it feels better anyway, doesn�t it?� Aaron asked. I laughed.
�Come here.� I said and he lay next to me. �Kiss me.�
�With pleasure.� Aaron said kissing me. �How about I order Chinese for me and some soup for you and then make you some toast?�
�Sounds good.�

The next day, I was waiting for Trista to pack an overnight bag. Nick came down the stairs.
�So are you upset Keely and I are taking your wife away from you for a night?� I asked.
�Yeah, but there�s an upside to that.� Nick grinned.
�And what�s that?� I asked with a raised eyebrow. Nick danced his way over to the air conditioner as he sang.
�It�s getting hot in here, so take off all your clothes.� He turned down the temperature and I cracked up.
�Besides warming up, what else are you doing?�
�Mike�s coming over to hang out. I think Aaron�s stopping by later too.�
�Yeah, he�s going to be in the studio until like six or something.� I said.
�I�m ready.� Trista said coming down the stairs.
�It�s about damn time.�
�Sorry, my shoe was under the bed and I had to try to get it out with a hanger.�
�Why didn�t you just ask for help?� Nick asked.
�It wasn�t a big deal. It was just a shoe.� She shrugged.

Trista and I made it to the airport just in time for Keely�s plane to land. We waited by the gate until Keely came walking out, grinning and practically skipping all the way. Trista and I hugged her before we grabbed her bags and made our way to the parking lot.
�Let me see the ring.� Keely squealed. I laughed and put my hand out.
�It�s beautiful.� She gasped.
�Thank you.� I grinned.
�What are you taking credit for? Aaron picked it out.� Trista said pushing me. I stuck my tongue out at her. We got to my condo and Keely kind of jumped back when she saw my dogs. I laughed.
�You know Sprinkles already.�
�Yeah, hi girl.� She said petting her hesitantly. �Who�s the new one?� She asked. I picked up my little chocolate lab.
�This is Mocha.�
�Cute.� Keely said.
�You guys can put your bags in the guest room.� I said and I took one of Keely�s bags for her and put it in the room.

�Tris, I can�t believe how big you�ve gotten.� Keely said taking a good look at Trista�s stomach. She pouted.
�Gee, thanks.�
�Aww, but it�s good big.� Keely said trying to redeem herself. It wasn�t working.
�I�ll be sure to return the compliment someday.� Trista said.
�Well, that won�t be for a while.� Keely said.
�I guess you�re not seeing that guy anymore?� I asked.
�Nope. I�m just going to be single for a while. It�s easier that way.� Keely sighed. We walked back out to the living room.
�So what do you want to do?� I asked.
�What we always do.� Trista shrugged.
�Talk about stupid stuff, pig out and watch movies?� I asked.
�Sounds good to me.� Keely smiled. Trista and Keely helped me pull out the bags of chips and drinks.
�Mac, I know I promised not to freeze you out, but can I at least open the window?� Trista asked.
�Yeah, go ahead.� I laughed.

�What a cute kid.� Keely said and I looked over to her holding the picture of Eryn.
�Isn�t she?�
�Is this one of Aaron�s cousins?�
�Nope. That�s Erica�s daughter.�
�Really?� Keely asked. I nodded. �She has to be what? Two?�
�Three.� I corrected.
�I didn�t know you two still kept in touch.�
�Yeah, I told you she sent me letters and e-mails once in a while.� I said and Keely shrugged. Trista came back over and Keely put the picture back on the refrigerator.
�Is that Eryn?� Trista asked.
�Yeah.�
�She�s adorable.� Trista said. I nodded and Keely and I grabbed the food as Trista kept staring at the picture.
�The movie�s starting.� I announced and Trista brought the juice in with her.

The rest of the night, we did just what we planned. It was nice being with both my best friends. I always wondered how our lives would change once we actually grew up and started families and careers, but nothing�s changed. We really didn�t grow up either; at least we didn�t show it when we were together. We didn�t fall asleep until like four am and by that time, I was throwing up every piece of junk food I had consumed that night. I thought that would be the last of it, since I didn�t feel full or anything after that. I didn�t even feel sick, so why I had to puke again like five hours later I had no idea.

After I left the studio, I called Craig to see if he wanted to hang out. He made up some lame excuse about having to baby-sit his sister. I mean it could have been true, but his mom�s so neurotic I doubt she even trusts him to baby-sit her. I went home and Dad was sitting in the living room watching golf or something. My dad�s taste in sports has gotten somewhat lame in his old age. I mean he wasn�t ancient and true Brian and AJ liked golf too, but Dad never did and it was depressing me to see him sitting there watching it.

�Where�s your mother?� He asked.
�She went to pick up dinner.� I said and he nodded.
�How did recording go?�
�Really good. We got a lot done today.�
�Good.� Dad said and I went upstairs. Angel�s door was open, but she wasn�t in her room. I would have asked her to hang out or something, but I guess she went to hang out with her friends or maybe Leslie. I just hoped she wasn�t at a club or some party. I�m not saying she can never have fun again and go clubbing, but some of the clubs she picks are in real bad neighborhoods and it�s like she went there to start trouble.

I�ll admit, we�re not perfect and it was hard living under our circumstances. Mom pushed us all hard to be what she wanted us to be. Lucky for Nick and I, we had wanted to be in the music business since the beginning, but Leslie never did. I doubt Angel wanted to be a model at first either. I know my sisters had it rough living back here and all they wanted was my mother�s attention.

I headed over to Nick�s place and decided to call Angel�s cell. I put my earpiece in, so I wouldn�t be pulled over for talking on my cell phone.
�What Aaron?� Angel answered.
�Hello to you too.�
�Are you checking up on me?� She asked.
�No, I wanted to hang out with you tonight. I was wondering if you were coming home.�
�I�m out with my friends. I�m sleeping over Ashley�s.�
�Oh okay. Be safe.�
�I will Aar. I learned my lesson. I�m not going to be that stupid again.� Angel assured me.
�Good. I love you Angel.�
�I love you too. Maybe we�ll do something tomorrow.� She said.
�Okay. Have fun. Bye.� I said hanging up.

I pulled into Nick�s driveway and knocked on the door. A minute later, Nick answered it with a hammer in his hand. I looked at him somewhat concerned.
�What did I do?� I asked.
�Huh?� Nick asked and then looked at the hammer. �Oh. I�m putting together the crib.� Nick said walking into the living room. I followed and saw Mike fiddling with some of the screws. There were pieces scattered everywhere.
�Need help?� I asked, not really wanting to help.
�Yes. We�ve been doing this for a half an hour now.� Mike said.
�Hmm�let�s see.� I said sitting on the floor.

About twenty minutes later, the crib was put together, but it looked nothing like the picture.
�Somehow I don�t think this is right.� Mike commented.
�No shit.� Nick sighed before throwing his hammer down. �I�m a horrible father already.�
�Nick, stop being a baby.� I sighed.
�Yeah, at least you can relate to the kid then.� Mike smirked. Nick picked up the hammer again.
�Don�t make me use this.�
�Ooh, I�m scared.� Mike said.
�Maybe I�ll call Dad.� Nick said.
�No. It�ll make him feel old.�
�No, it will make him feel useful.� Nick argued. I shrugged. About two hours later, Dad was over and we were all enjoying a beer as we admired the crib.

The rest of the night, we drank, ate, played basketball and watched �Major League�. It was a guy night and I think Dad felt good that we had included him. Of course once we got home, Mom bitched him out for leaving the TV on and not telling her where he went until three hours of him being gone. Wives, huh. I can�t believe I�m getting one soon. Good thing Mackenzie and my Mom weren�t alike in the nagging area.

Chapter 7

�Mac, are you okay?� Trista asked as I leaned over the toilet. I looked up at her.
�Do I look okay?� I wondered.
�You look like the first three months of my pregnancy.� She chuckled. My eyes widened. �You ate too much, huh?�
�Trista, do you think I could be pregnant?� I asked. I started factoring in all the symptoms. I was tired, getting selective cases of nausea and now that I think of it, I�m late.
�Mac, you ate a lot of junk last night. It�s understandable that you�re barfing.� Trista laughed.
�Tris, I�ve been puking all week.�
�Stomach flu?� She suggested.
�I�m late.�
�Let�s take a test.� She said and I laughed.
�Do you think I�m jumping to conclusions?�
Trista shrugged, �So what if you are? It�s better to be sure, right?�
�Yeah. Let me just brush my teeth and take a shower.�
�I�ll go to the store and get it.� Trista offered.
�Thanks.� Trista left and I got in the shower. The hot water felt good and I started to feel better. As I got dressed, I heard voices in the living room. I walked out to see Aaron and Keely watching Nickelodeon.

�Hey.� I said and Keely still looked like she was half asleep.
�Good afternoon.� Aaron smiled at me.
�Did you wake Keely up?� I asked kissing him.
�No, she stumbled out of the guest room as soon as I came in.� He laughed.
�Where�s Trista?� Keely asked.
�She ran to the store for something.� I said sitting down next to Aaron. �So what did you do last night?� I asked.
�Helped Nick, Mike and my Dad put a crib together.� Aaron grinned proudly.
�Aww, did you read the instructions?�
�No, what do we need them for?� He asked. Keely and I rolled our eyes at each other and laughed.
�How long did it take you?� Keely asked.
�About an hour.� Aaron shrugged. �It was easy.� He concluded.
�Once you decided to call your Dad, right?� I asked.
�Yeah.� Aaron smiled and I poked his side. Trista came through the door, holding up a plastic bag.

�I got it.� She smiled and then stopped when she saw Aaron.
�What did you get?� He asked.
�Maxi pads.� She said quickly. Aaron looked confused.
�But doesn�t that stop when you�re pregnant or something?�
�Yeah, they�re for Keely.� I said and Keely looked at me.
�What?�
�Okay, I don�t need to know. I�m going to take a nap.� Aaron said standing up.
�You came over here to take a nap?� I asked.
�I didn�t get any sleep at Nick�s and if I go home, Mom will just get on me for something.� Aaron pouted. I waved him off and he walked into my bedroom.
�Now what�s going on?� Keely asked in a whisper. Trista pulled out the pregnancy test.
�Um, I think Aaron knows you�re pregnant already Trista.� Keely joked.
�Yeah, but he doesn�t know if Mac is.�
�You are!?� Keely yelled.
�Shh! I don�t know. That�s what the test is for.� I sighed.
�How would you feel about that?� She asked.
�I haven�t thought about it yet.�
�Well, think about it.� Keely laughed.
�Can I find out if I am first?� I asked, with a laugh. Keely shrugged and I smacked her head with a pillow.
�Let�s go.� Trista said opening the test and handing it to me.

I was pushed into the bathroom. I followed the directions and I waited nervously. I couldn�t help but to stare at the test, waiting for it to turn colors. Once it did, I stared more before looking at the box again to make sure I had the results right. I opened the bathroom door and ushered Keely and Trista in.
�Well?� Trista asked.
�It�s positive.� I said biting my lip. They just looked at me for a few seconds before screaming and throwing their arms around me.
�Shhh�.� I said hugging them.
�We�re both going to be mommies!� Trista squealed.
�How do you feel?� Keely asked.
�I don�t know. I think I need to throw up.� I said before running over to the toilet and doing just that.
�Eww!� Trista and Keely yelled before running out of the bathroom.

I laid down in Mackenzie�s bed and closed my eyes. The next thing I know, they�re all running up the stairs and I hear a door shut. I just tried concentrating on sleeping, that is until I heard a scream. I jumped up, my heart beating fast. Girls are so crazy. I figured they were screaming over something retarded. Trista and Keely ran out a few seconds later grossed out by something. Maybe I should stay far away when they were all together.
�Is everything okay?� I yelled out.
�Fine!� Trista and Keely yelled back. That was enough reassurance for me right now. I tried going back to sleep and this time, I was successful. I woke up a few hours later and no one was there. I got out of bed and rummaged through the cabinets for something to eat. I made myself a bowl of cereal and the phone rang. I didn�t know if I should get it or not. I usually answered if Mackenzie was home, but I felt like I was overstepping a line to do it when she wasn�t there. I let the machine pick it up.

�Mackenzie, hi�� A voice said and I know I recognized it from somewhere. The sound of it almost got under my skin. �It�s Erica. Long time no talk, huh? I was hoping you�d give me a call back. My number�s 781-234-8979. Bye.� She said and then I could hear a little girl�s voice in the background saying �Mommy�. I glanced at the picture on the refrigerator. Poor kid with a mother like Erica and no father. No father�when I have a kid, I won�t let it go ever. I�ve learned so much from the way I was raised and the way I�ve seen people take their kids for granted. I want to be there every step of my children�s lives.

The door opened and I finished the last bite of my cereal before putting the bowl in the sink. Mackenzie and Keely walked in and I smiled at them.
�Where did you guys come from?�
�We went shopping and then dropped Trista off.� Keely said.
�Nice job on the crib.� Mac commented.
�Thanks.� I grinned proudly.
�A little tip though�next time you put something together, you might want to consider doing that in the room where the thing belongs.� Mac laughed. I narrowed my eyes.
�What do you mean?�
�Well, Nick and Mike tried to get the crib upstairs to the nursery�� Keely began, trying to hold back her laughter.
�And it rolled back down the stairs and they wound up running away from it and getting slammed into the couch�� Mac said and they both cracked up.
�On top of that, the crib didn�t fit in the doorway of the nursery.� Keely added.
�You mean to tell me they�re going to have to take the crib apart and put it back together?� I asked annoyed.
�Oh yeah.� Mackenzie said patting my back.
�And you get to help.� Keely grinned.
�Uh uh�Dad can come back over and help.�
�Aaron�� Mac said.
�I�m not the one having a baby.� I said and Keely started giggling. I knew I was funny, but it wasn�t really a humorous moment of mine.
�This is your nephew though.� Mac said pushing Keely a little.
�Okay, if they need my help, then I�m there.� I sighed.

�How are you feeling anyway?� I asked.
�Better.� Mac said.
�You said that two days ago and you still threw up yesterday.�
She shrugged, �It comes and goes.�
�Maybe you should see a doctor.�
�I�ll make an appointment.� Mackenzie said going to her bedroom with her bags. I never get Mac to make a doctor�s appointment that easily. She always insists she�s fine. She�s scared of her doctor or something. I don�t know. My girlfriend�s weird sometimes, but I love her anyway.

Chapter 8

The next week, Keely and Mackenzie hung out with Trista while I was working in the studio a lot. I would have to go to New York to finish up the album, but I was trying to schedule it when Mackenzie would be there too. I wasn�t one of those guys who couldn�t stand to be away from his girl, but in this lifestyle you had to take your time together when you could because who knows what your schedule would be like in a few weeks.

I stayed at my parents� house most of the time Keely was here because I didn�t want to invade on Mackenzie�s girl time. She never mentioned the phone call from Erica to me, so I wonder if she�s even going to call her. I had asked Mac about her doctor�s appointment and she just told me it was a stomach flu. Her eating habits have gotten strange, so it makes sense I guess.

Angel has hardly been home lately and that worried me. She didn�t show up to Sunday dinner or anything. Jackie and Keely both came and they seemed all friendly or whatever. Keely and Mac must have the same taste in guys or something. Or maybe Jackie and I just had the same taste in girls. Thinking back on it all, it was pretty weird. I mean the memories are so distant now that I can hardly remember what living through them was like. I can hardly remember being with another girl either. Some guys would think that was a bad thing, but I never got bored with Mackenzie.

The last night Keely was in town, we all decided to go to this new club I had been telling Craig about for weeks. Trista was reluctant to go because she was pregnant and all, but Keely talked her into it. It was a restaurant type club anyway. There was even a bowling alley and a go-kart track inside. How cool is that? We got to the club and I realized it was the longest I�ve been with Mac in over a week. Nick immediately got us a table in the VIP area because he was worried about �violent dancers� falling into Trista. My brother was a little crazy sometimes. I�m still laughing at the thought of the crib chasing after him and Mike.

�What can I get ya to drink?� The waitress asked, leaning over the table and looking at Nick. Her boobs were practically shoved in his face and her ass was pretty much in my lap.
�You can get me some orange juice.� Trista said poking her head in between Nick and the waitress.
�Okay, and for you cutie?�
�I�ll have a rum and coke.� Nick said, taking Trista�s hand. The waitress skipped right over to me.
�What about you?� She asked playing with the chain around my neck.
�Just a Heineken.�
�And you brown eyes?� She asked Jackie.
�Heineken.� She asked Mike and went to walk away.
�Excuse me!� Mac and Keely yelled at her.
�Sorry. What do you want?�
�A new waitress.� Keely said.
�Look, I cover the VIP section. You don�t like it, you can leave and I�ll take care of your dates.� She grinned.
�Excuse me?� Nick asked. The waitress turned and smiled at him.
�What�s your name?�
�Yvette.�
�Well, Yvette�I know you know who we are and maybe that�s why you�re coming on so strong, but this is my wife and all the other girls at this table are good friends of mine and unless you treat them with the same respect you treat us�I�d like to speak to the manager.�
�That�s not necessary. I�m sorry Mr. Carter. What did you ladies want?� She asked. Mackenzie and Keely gave their orders and the waitress walked away.

�I�m impressed Nickolas.� Mackenzie said as Trista kissed him.
�Yeah, since when did you start to handle things like that?� I asked with a laugh.
�What was I going to do beat her ass down?� Nick laughed.
�I�d pay to see that.� Keely said.
�Next time you�re in town Keely.� Nick laughed.
�You want to dance?� Jackie asked and Keely smiled. They made their way to the dance floor and I raised my eyebrows at Mackenzie.
�Is that an invitation to dance?� She asked.
�Yes.�
�Use your words like a big boy.� Trista teased and I shot her a glare.
�Fine, I�m going to ask my sister-in-law to dance then.� I said getting up.
�Be careful with her.� Nick warned and I laughed as I helped Trista out of the chair. I walked her down the steps and onto the dance floor. We started dancing and I glanced up at Mac and winked at her. She smiled, but I got the feeling she was hiding something.
�Okay, what�s my fianc�e keeping from me?� I asked. Trista went wide-eyed.
�Nothing. Why would you think that?� She asked.
�Fine, don�t tell me.� I sighed.
�Why don�t you just ask her?�
�So she is keeping something from me?� I wondered.
�I didn�t say that.� Trista smirked.

A few minutes later, Nick and Mackenzie started dancing near us. Mac and I bumped butts a couple of times before Nick and I switched partners. I pulled Mackenzie close to me and she smiled at me.
�Do you have something to tell me?� I asked straight out.
�Trista told you?�
�No. I�m getting the feeling you�re keeping something from me.�
�Your feeling�s right.�
�It is?� I asked.
�I was waiting for the right time to tell you. When we could be alone.� Mac sighed.
�We�re alone. The only person I see is you right now.� I said. God I was cheesy, but it made Mackenzie smile.

�Is everything okay?� Aaron asked, searching my eyes for an answer. I nodded.
�I�m okay. I just hope you�ll be okay.� I said and Aaron looked at me kind of confused before his eyes widened and his mouth dropped. He was no longer looking at me. Aaron�s eyes were looking behind me.
�Angel?� He mumbled.
�She�s here?� I wondered as I turned around.

Angel was laughing and giggling as she threw a bowling ball down the lane. She got a strike before she ran over to a guy and he picked her up and she kissed him. I didn�t know she was seeing anyone. They seemed like they were comfortable with each other. The guy Angel kissed turned and my eyes widened almost as big as Aaron�s. It was Craig. Angel had just kissed Aaron�s best friend. I looked back at Aaron and he looked down at me.
�What the hell?� He asked.
�Aaron, calm down�� I said, but it was too late. He started making his way through the crowd.�Mike!� I called over to the table. He was talking to some girl and looked down at me. I waved him over and he came down the stairs.
�What�s wrong?�
�Stop Aaron from kicking someone�s ass.� I sighed.
�Why can�t Nick do that?� He asked.
�Because Nick might join in.� I said pulling Mike with me through the crowd and then over to the bowling area, where Aaron had pushed Craig off of Angel.

�What the fuck do you think you�re doing?� Aaron yelled. I groaned. Why does he have to make a scene? We were constantly clearing up rumors and covering up fights that Aaron and Nick get into over their sisters or Trista and me. It�s hard to be a protective boyfriend or brother when you�re famous.
�Aaron, stop it.� Angel said.
�Angel, I�ll talk to you in a minute.� Aaron said keeping his eyes on Craig. �You�re my best friend. I trusted you man.� Aaron said, more hurt.
�Aaron, I know. I�m sorry we didn�t tell you.�
�You lied to me. I asked you if you were screwing my sister and you fucking lied to me!� Aaron yelled.
�We weren�t. I mean we aren�t.� Craig stuttered. By this time, Nick and Trista made their way over.
�What�s going on?� Nick asked.
�Craig and Angel are here.� Mike sighed.
�Hey Ang!� Nick said cheerfully.
�Hi.� She said and he wrapped his arm around her.
�I ask you to keep an eye on my sister and watch out for her, not take advantage of her!� Aaron yelled. Angel pulled away from Nick as Aaron backed Craig up against the bowling ball cleaner.
�Aaron�� Angel yelled, pulling his arm. He threw his arm back, trying to get out of her grip. Angel flew back a little and Nick held onto her. Mike decided to step in and pull Aaron back.
�Get off me Mike.�
�No, look calm down. We�re in a very public place.� Mike said. Aaron backed away from Craig and looked over at Angel.
�Do you like being this easy Angel?� Aaron asked and I really couldn�t believe my ears. Before Angel could even react, Nick pushed Aaron hard.
�Don�t fucking call yourself my brother again.� Angel said crying before walking away.
�Angel, wait!� Craig called after her. He ran after her and I looked over at Trista as I rubbed my forehead.

The mood was killed for the rest of the night. I sat at the table with Aaron for about another hour. We didn�t say a word. I knew when he was like this; I should just leave him alone. Nick and Trista left pretty much right after Angel and Craig did and Mike went with them.
�Mac, I�m going to get a ride back with Jackie. Is that okay with you?� Keely asked.
�Yeah, have fun. I�ll see you when you get home if I�m up.� I said hugging her.
�Okay. Get home safe.� She said and gave me a sympathetic smile nodding toward Aaron.
�Night Mac.� Jackie said kissing my cheek.
�Night Aaron.� He said and Aaron shook his hand, hardly looking at his face. Keely hugged him and they left.
�You ready?� Aaron asked.
�Yeah.� I nodded.

Aaron and I got back to my apartment without a word said between us. I got ready for bed and crawled in next to Aaron, who was just staring at the ceiling. I turned on my side.
�What?� He asked.
�Talk to me.�
�Why so you can tell me I�m being ridiculous?� Aaron asked turning his head to look at me.
�I wasn�t going to tell you that.�
�Tell me what you were going to tell me back at the club.� Aaron said.
�No.�
�Why?�
�Because you�re mad.�
�Well, is what you have to tell me going to make me more mad?� Aaron asked and I sighed.
�I�m not sure.�
�Mackenzie, just tell me.� Aaron insisted. I took Aaron�s hand in mine and looked into his eyes.
�You�re going to be a father.� I said and he just stared at me. �I�m pregnant. Almost two months.� I said and Aaron still didn�t say anything. He returned to looking at the ceiling and I let go of his hand.

�We�re having a baby?� Aaron said, like he was asking himself the question more than me.
�Yes.� I said as tears started to fill my eyes. With each passing second, more tears streamed down my face until I was softly crying. I sniffled and Aaron looked toward me.
�Baby, don�t cry.� Aaron said leaning over me.
�I can�t help it. You�re not ready for this.� I sobbed as I wiped my tears.
�I didn�t say that. You just took me by surprise.� He said softly.
�You�re not even ready to get married either.� I continued to cry.
�What? Who the hell said that?�
�Your Dad.� I cried, turning away from him.
�I told him not to say anything to you.� Aaron said getting angry.
�He didn�t. I asked Nick to find out what was wrong with him.�
�Mackenzie, look at me.� Aaron said pulling me toward him. I looked over at him as he stared down at me.
�I�m not going anywhere. I love you and I asked you to marry me for that reason. I have nothing to prove to anyone. I want to get married and I�m ready to be a husband.� Aaron said. I just nodded.

�So you�re really pregnant?� Aaron asked.
�I wouldn�t joke about it.� I said as my tears stopped completely now.
�Our baby. I like the sound of that.� Aaron said as a smile formed on his lips.
�This is happening a lot sooner than it was supposed to.� I said.
�Maybe, but we can handle it.� Aaron said kissing me.
�I love you.� I sighed once we pulled apart.
�I love you too.�
�You�re sure you�re okay?� I asked.
�Mackenzie, I�m more than okay. We�ll be great parents and the best part, we can learn from Nick and Trista�s mistakes.� Aaron grinned and I laughed. �What did the doctor say?�
�He said that I�ll need to come in once a month for a check-up. I need to watch what I eat and to make sure I don�t overwork myself in the later months.�
�Okay. Anything I can do?� Aaron asked.
�Just be here for me.� I said.
�That I will do forever.� He said kissing my nose.
�Thank you.� I said closing my eyes, feeling a little tired.
�Good night Mom.�
�Good night Dad.� I said as Aaron held me close and I started to doze off.

Chapter 9

The next morning, I woke up and all I could think about was the fact that Mac and I were having a baby. We made a person. It was a weird feeling. I was scared and unsure, but I was also excited and positive about it. I guess overwhelmed was the right word. Mackenzie got up and before I could even smile at her, she darted for the bathroom. I got up and made my way into the bathroom to see her bent over the toilet. It wasn�t attractive, but I held her hair back for her as I rubbed her back.

�Thank you.� She said as she took a piece of toilet paper to wipe her mouth.
�No problem.� I said and helped Mac up. We brushed our teeth together before walking into the kitchen. �Want some cereal?� I asked. She shook her head.
�You expect me to eat after I just threw up?�
�Well, you�re eating for two now.� I shrugged pouring myself a bowl of cereal.
�And you�ve been eating for four.� Mackenzie joked.
�Haha.� I said sticking my tongue out before sitting down across from her with my cereal. Keely came out of the guest room and sat down. She looked so tired.
�Rough night?� Mac asked.
�Long night.� She smiled.
�I�m going to miss Jackie.� She pouted.
�Well, come back more often.� Mackenzie said.
�I will.�
�Keely, did you hear I�m going to be a Daddy?� I asked with a grin.
�You told him!?� She squealed. Mac nodded.
�I guess that�s a yes.� I laughed.
�Congratulations!� Keely said hugging me and then Mackenzie. Keely got in the shower a few minutes later and I finished my cereal. I went to get up to put my bowl in the sink.

�Aaron?� Mac said.
�Yeah?�
�We never talked about last night.�
�Mac, I�m in a pretty good mood right now. Please don�t ruin it.�
�I�m not trying to, but you really hurt Angel�s feelings.� Mac said.
�I know that. You don�t think I know when I hurt my twin sister�s feelings?�
�Then why did you do it?�
�I was fucking mad Mackenzie.� I sighed.
�Why though?�
�Did you see Angel all over Craig?�
�Aaron, Craig is your best friend. If you could hand pick any guy for your sister, wouldn�t it be him?�
�No.�
�Come on, why not?� Mackenzie asked.
�The thought grosses me out.�
�You need to get passed the fact that Angel�s your sister and realize she�s a woman. You said it yourself that Craig needs a girl.�
�Yeah, not my sister though.�
�And you also said Angel needs to stop being a tease at all these clubs, right?�
�Yeah Mac, but we all saw how this worked out with Mike and BJ.�

�And how did it work out?� Mackenzie asked.
�They broke up.�
�Yeah, but they had fun together while it lasted and they stayed friends.� Mac reasoned. I sighed.
�And you think Craig and Angel could be serious about each other?�
�It�s not impossible. You need to listen before you act.� Mac said and I groaned.
�Thanks for the lecture.�
�I�m not lecturing you. I think it�s pretty cute that you and Nick are so protective of your sisters, but it�s not so cute when you blow things out of proportion.� I just nodded.
�Thanks Mac.� I said leaning over and kissing her.

After Mackenzie left to take Keely to the airport, I decided I was going to go home. When I got there, I went straight to Angel�s room. She wasn�t there. I sighed and decided to take a shower. walked downstairs into the living room and watched some TV, but my mind drifted to a couple of different things. Angel was of course one of them. I started to think about the wedding and my unborn child again. I still thought of myself as a kid no matter how hard I try not to be. I know I am one, but here I was having one. I'm really thankful I have such a big family and Mackenzie to help me through. I decided I could use some family right now. Since Mac and I haven�t even talked about spreading the news yet, I figured I�d just talk about it to my only brother. I took a drive to Nick and Trista�s house. Once I was inside, I cursed myself for not bringing a jacket.

�Come in the yard.� Nick said shivering. I laughed as we walked outside.
�Dude, you should offer sweaters at the door.� I joked.
�So have you calmed down since last night?� Nick asked.
�Yeah. Angel wasn�t at home or else I would have apologized to her.�
�She went away for the weekend.�
�What?� I asked surprised.
�Leslie asked Angel to go to her video shoot with her.�
�Oh.�
�Aaron, look I know I�m not one to talk, but Angel�s not a little girl anymore.�
�I know. I feel like shit after what I said to her.� I sighed.
�You should.�
�Anyway, I have something to tell you.�
�What?� Nick asked. He sounded worried.

�Mac�s pregnant.�
�Dude, you work fast. You�re not even married.� Nick laughed. I rolled my eyes.
�Well, it wasn�t planned, but I can�t say I�m upset over it either.�
�Good. I mean I�m glad you�re cool with it.�
�Why wouldn�t I be?�
�I don�t know. You just now proposed and already a baby�s on the way. It can be intimidating.� Nick explained.
�I know, but I�m going to be a father and there�s no stopping it.�
�Congratulations man.� Nick said getting up and doing our handshake hug thing.
�Thank you. You�ll show me the ropes right?� I smiled.
�Once I learn them first�of course.� Nick laughed. �How�s Mac feel about it?�
�She seems completely cool. She�s very calm.�
�That�s how chicks are.� Nick shrugged. I nodded. Why is that?

I got back from the airport and I saw that my answering machine was blinking, indicating I had messages. I hit play as I went into the refrigerator and looked for something good to eat. Mmm, cheese. I pulled out a few slices of cheese as some telemarketer tried to sell me something. I erased the message and the next one played as I bit into the cheese.

�Mackenzie, it�s Erica. Look, I thought you�d at least answer my call. I know you�re busy and everything, but it�s really important. I�m coming out there next week. I would like to talk to you. Please call me back.� Erica pleaded before leaving her number. I sighed. I really didn�t want to start a friendship back up with her, but I picked up the phone anyway and dialed the number where I had written it from the last message.
�Hawo?� A little voice answered. I smiled.
�Honey, give me the phone.� Erica said. �Hello?�
�Hi, it�s Mackenzie.�
�Thank you for calling.�
�So what�s up?� I asked.
�I�m all alone up here Mac.� She sniffled.
�Erica, what about your family?�
�They don�t care. They pretty much disowned me. I don�t have a lot of money and the doctor�s bills are getting to be too much. They want to fire me at work and I can�t afford to keep Eryn in daycare either.� Erica cried.
�Calm down. What are you doing coming here then? You can�t afford it.�
�Jane�s paying for my plane ticket and hotel.� Erica said. She went to Jane?
�What do you need from me?�
�A friend. I need to talk. Please Mac.�
�Okay. When you get here, give me a call.�
�Thank you. Eryn and I will look forward to seeing you.�
�I look forward to seeing you too.� I said before we said goodbye and hung up. I looked at the picture of Eryn again. I had a bad feeling about all of this.

I picked up the phone and dialed the Carter house.
�Hello?�
�Hi Jane. It�s Mackenzie.�
�Mackenzie, I don�t have time to argue. I�m going out with Bob tonight.�
�How come you didn�t tell me Erica�s coming?� I asked.
�I didn�t know I had to.�
�You�re helping her come here. Do you know how much trouble that could cause?� I asked.
�Mackenzie, whatever problems you and Erica had are in the past. She�s in trouble and I�m not just going to let her hang out there to dry.� Jane sighed.
�Nick and Trista are not going to be happy at all.�
�Why?�
�It�s a long story.� I sighed.
�You know, that�s all I hear from any of you. So I�m not going to take this vendetta everyone has against Erica seriously until someone starts talking.�
�Jane��
�Goodbye Mackenzie.� She said hanging up. I groaned. I hate when she did that to me.

I finished my cheese before grabbing my car keys and driving over to Nick and Trista�s.
�Looking for Aaron?� Trista asked.
�No, I didn�t even know he was here.� I shrugged.
�He and Nick are out in the back in the sweltering heat.� Trista said shaking her head and I laughed.
�Am I going to get like this when I�m six months?� I wondered.
�Who knows�maybe you�ll always be cold?� Trista laughed.
�So Aaron knows.� I grinned.
�I take it by that silly grin, he�s happy about it?�
�Yup.�
�Congratulations.� Trista hugged me.
�Thank you.� We sat down and talked a little more before I finally decided to tell her about Erica.
�She�s what?� Trista exclaimed.
�Erica is bringing her daughter here.�
�Why?�
�She�s looking for money from Jane and she says she wants to talk to me.� I groaned.
�What a money-digging bitch.� Trista said and I nodded.
�My thoughts exactly. She�s going to try to use that poor little girl to con money out of Jane and sympathy out of me.� I still can�t believe Trista and I were ever close friends with Erica Collins. A rain cloud is about to hang over my life and I just hope it doesn�t pour down on me.

On to Chapters 10-18

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