Mackenzie= Blue Aaron= Silver
Chapter 1
A girl screamed in my ear and I just laughed. It didn't faze me much anymore. Since I was about fourteen, I became accustomed to the screams, cries and pleas. Hell, I used to be the one giving them back then. There was something special about going to a concert and feeling the energy and passion in the room. Especially when it was one of his concerts.
"Mackenzie!" I heard from the crowd. I turned to see a group of girls that showed up at almost every concert I was covering in the New York area. I smiled and waved to them. The girls forced their way through the crowd until they got to me. I smiled, but knew what they were going to say.
"Are you interviewing Aaron today?" The loudest of the four asked.
"I'm not sure. I think we're just taking pictures today." I said nodding toward Trista, my best friend and photographer.
"Oh, is there any way you could get us backstage?" She asked, all their eyes pleading. I hate this part of the business.
"I'm sorry, it's hard enough for me to get backstage." I chuckled softly. The girls nodded sadly before making their way over to Mike who just stepped out of the backstage area. I rolled my eyes�groupies!
Does it seem hypocritical that only eight years ago I was at a concert, trying to scream for attention from the act onstage? Some people might think so. I was never as aggressive though. I never waited outside hotels or followed their tour buses or even stayed outside concerts until I was bound to see them leave. Groupie, no. Fan, definitely.
Trista made her way over to me after the last song was done.
"Get any good shots?" I asked.
"Yeah, he was hamming it up for me." Trista smiled. I laughed.
"I told him you'd be up front taking pictures and I warned him he better give us his all." Trista nodded.
"So what now?" She asked.
"He wants us to meet him at that pool hall down the street." Trista nodded.
"Let's roll."
Trista and I have been best friends since my senior year of high school. We met through our love of music. Backstreet Boys was our pleasure and not a very guilty one either. We were proud to be fans, just like we were fans of him.
We stood in the almost deserted pool hall, waiting for Mr. Superstar to enter. When he finally did, he seemed to ooze confidence as he walked and his smile just said it all. He hugged me tightly, before hugging Trista.
"Thanks for coming guys. It means a lot to me. I get my own issue again, right?" He grinned. He just loved attention.
"Of course, who gives you more free press than us?" I asked.
"No one." He smirked.
"And don't forget it." I smiled.
I founded Spotlight Magazine right after I graduated high school just to gain experience in music journalism, but to my surprise it became successful. Really successful. He was the first big name I put in the magazine. I still remember the day I met Aaron Carter.
I was a first year college student, extremely new to this whole going backstage, interviewing stars and acting normal thing. Needless to say, I was a total dork. Being a fan of Aaron Carter's was not easy when he's fourteen and you're nineteen, especially when you're freaking out just seeing his name on the dressing room door.
Of course, Aaron Carter the gentleman shook my hand politely as I introduced myself.
"I'm Mackenzie Wiley from Spotlight Magazine. I'm a big fan." I said and I can't be too sure, but I think my mouth hurt from grinning so widely. Aaron smiled, though I'm sure he wanted to laugh. He took a picture with me and signed a few autographs for me, three to be exact.
Throughout the day, he'd smile and wave and after his show, he even hugged me. To a fan, it was amazing. To a professional, it was astonishing. Of course, I never acted quite like that again when I was on the job. Thankfully. Looking back now, I'm surprised I wasn't kicked out by security for being considered a teenybopper.
After that day, I was supposed to set up an interview with Aaron, but I was completely brushed off. Maybe it was the impression I gave his management or mother, same thing. Maybe it had nothing to do with me really, but just the way Aaron's management works. Who knows, but it took me a good year and a half of trying to actually get to interview him.
Sure, I ran into Aaron here and there, even asked him some questions in a press room, but never got that one-on-one time I wanted. I even managed to interview his brother, Nick before him. That was an amazing day and I was the envy of just about all my friends, since they're all in love with Nick.
I'll admit, I did have a crush on Nick at a time in my life, but once you're in this celebrity realm, he's no longer Nick Carter, he's just Nick�which I have to say is a great guy, but I don't see us more than friends. I didn't interview Aaron until I arranged my own concert. Somehow one of my business friends got his mother to agree to it and since it's my show, instant interview for me.
I never really thought we'd hit it off so well, but we did. The interview was supposed to last for about twenty minutes, but we wound up talking close to an hour. From then on, Aaron and I worked hand-in-hand.
If he was in town, I was on the press list. If I was putting on a concert, he was making an appearance. I think he liked the idea of my magazine and seemed impressed by my young age to pull off something like that. I guess it equaled out because I would never be able to handle being in the spotlight at his young age.
"So are we gonna play or what?" Aaron asked picking up a queue stick.
"You know I suck at pool." I said.
"Exactly why I want to play." He grinned. Trista laughed.
"I'll play." She said. I sat back down and ordered a drink.
After about twenty minutes, Aaron groaned in defeat and I laughed as Trista threw her arms in the air.
"If you'll excuse me loser, I need to use the ladies' room." She said and Aaron rolled his eyes before plopping down next to me.
"Whatcha drinking?" He asked.
"Slo gin fizz." I replied. Aaron pulled the drink out of my hand and took a sip. I grabbed it back from him.
"You're underage, kid." I said and Aaron narrowed his eyes.
"Ever since you turned twenty-one, you've been throwing that in my face."
"Well, because if I get you drunk, your Mom will kill me."
"My Mom already hates you, so what's the difference?" Aaron snickered. I huffed.
"I don't even know why your Mom hates me."
"She's just trying to protect me."
"But from what? All I do is promote the hell out of you." I sighed.
"That's not all you do." Aaron said.
"It's not?"
"No, we're cool you know?" He said and I waited for him to elaborate.
"Like you were a fan, but at the same time, you help me professionally and now, we're awesome friends." Aaron said and I smiled.
"I just want to thank you for everything."
"Thanks to you too." I said hugging him.
"Am I interrupting something?" Trista asked. Aaron and I pulled away.
"Maybe." We both said, followed by a laugh.
"Oh, I didn't tell you. I'm going to be in town for like a week. I'm doing some morning shows and stuff."
"Cool." I smiled. Aaron and I made plans for the next few days.
On the ride back to our apartment, Trista drove and I just watched the passing road.
"Mac, is it me or does Aaron seem different?"
"Different how?" I asked.
"Like he's grown up so much." Trista said.
"Well, he's seventeen now�you know, we've always known him as a little boy." I said remembering the big eyed nine year old starting out in the business.
"I know." Trista smiled.
"Uh oh, you don't have a thing for Aaron, do you?" I asked with a laugh.
"No, I mean well, he's totally hot�but he's not my territory." Trista smirked at me. I rolled my eyes.
"And what's that supposed to mean?"
"That you only have eyes for him."
"Oh come on, you know I stopped thinking he was�" I thought of a word other than hot. "cute when we started hanging out more."
"Mackenzie, you never stopped thinking he was cute." Trista laughed.
"Okay, so yeah, he'll always be good looking, but Aaron's not my territory." I said and he wasn't. Aaron and I never crossed that line, plus I'm five years older than him. How illegal is that? Besides, dating press is not something celebrities did on a regular basis.
"Well, what about Nick?" Trista asked.
"Trista, Nick and I are total goofballs when we're together. I can't even think of dating him anymore." I laughed.
"I wasn't talking about you. I meant for me." She grinned. I laughed.
"Hey, you have to work your own magic with him." I said and she pouted.
"Why won't you help me out?"
"The same reason I won't help Erica and Keely out. No matter which one I choose to set up with Nick, the other two will hate me. So, I let you do your own dirty work and let Nick pick who he wants." I said matter-of-factly.
"Hmph. I don't see Nick enough to do any dirty work." She sighed. We pulled into the parking garage. I pulled myself out of the car sleepily and we made our way upstairs into our apartment.
"Good night Tris."
"Night Mac." I changed into my pajamas and quickly got under the covers falling into a peaceful sleep, knowing I had tomorrow off.
After Mackenzie and Trista left the pool hall, I was too awake to go back to the hotel and sleep. I cursed myself for not asking the girls to come to a club with me or something as Mike came over.
"You ready to go?"
"Yeah, let's go find a club."
"Man, your Mom will kill you. It's already past curfew." Mike reminded me. I winced. I mean I know I'm seventeen, but a 12:30am curfew when I'm working fourteen-hour days sometimes, it's ridiculous. I just shrugged at Mike before walking out to the car.
"Better yet, she'll kill me." Mike said. I rolled my eyes.
"Dude, she doesn't have to know I'm gone." Mike gave in.
About an hour later, I was grinding with this hot blonde who was probably in her early twenties. My cell phone vibrated against my leg, scaring the shit out of me, thinking it was something else�maybe a bodily function of mine I never knew existed or maybe this girl was into something freaky. I glanced at my phone and groaned. I called Mike over.
"Mom's on patrol." Mike nodded.
"I'll get the car." I turned toward the blonde as her hand grabbed onto my ass. I smiled and kissed her softly. I'd never see her again, so I at least had to get one kiss in.
"Here's my number. Call me whenever you want." She said and it was then I realized how manly her voice sounded. I mean she had a deeper voice than my Dad. Now was a good time to leave. I grabbed her number and made my way toward the door.
I spotted the car and got in. I shoved the number in Mike's pocket.
"What's that?" He asked pulling out of the parking lot.
"A hot chick for you." I laughed.
"No thanks. I don't need your sloppy seconds." Mike said. We got back to the hotel and I went straight to my room and fell asleep fully dressed and all. About two hours later, I woke up to pounding at my door.
"Aaron, open the door now." Mom yelled. I rolled my eyes and slid out of bed, stumbling over one of my shoes that I managed to kick off in the middle of the night. I opened the door and my Mom pushed her way into the room, searching every inch of it.
"What are you doing?" I asked running my hand through my hair.
"Where were you until 3am last night?" She asked with her hands on her hips.
"Playing pool." I responded non-chalantly.
"Aaron, don't lie to me."
"I'm not lying. Ask Mike. We played pool."
"With what's her name?" Mom asked.
"Mackenzie and Trista. Yes, with them."
"Oh, I remember Trista. She's a really nice girl." Mom said surprising me.
"And Mac isn't?"
"Mac�what kind of name is that?" I laughed.
"Mackenzie�it's Scottish. It was her grandmother's last name." I said with a shrug. Mom looked at me like I had five heads.
"How the hell do you know that?"
"She told me. Why do you make such a big deal about me being friends with her?" I asked. It really pissed me off sometimes, but then again it kind of amused me because of all people to protect me from, she picks Mackenzie Wiley?
"Aaron, she's press. They're usually the enemy."
"That's paparazzi Mom. Mac's been nothing but supportive of me and I have a good time with her." I really did. I didn't have many friends that were girls anymore. Not to be conceited or anything, but every girl I meet lately looks at me with puppy eyes and like they're in love. I'm not looking for that. I'm looking for someone to just be friends with.
Yeah, I have Craig and Mike and of course Nick, but being friends with a girl is different. They gave way better advice and if you wrestle them, you can always try and cop a feel, so hey, I'm happy with just being friends with a girl.
Once my mother stopped the interrogation, I glanced at the time and decided to give Mac a call. I have to admit, the first time I met her, I didn't think we'd ever be friends. She was so hyper, just like a fan and of course I love my fans, so I was friendly with her. It was kind of cool to have someone in the business star struck over me. After finally really talking to Mackenzie the night I first performed at a Spotlight concert, I was amazed at all she accomplished and how she was just not afraid to be weird and crazy.
If I was doing something stupid, she jumped right in and did it with me. She's five years older and considered an adult, but she'll act like a kid with me any day of the week. Now it's a given to hang out with Mac and of course Trista every time I'm in New York.
My cell phone rang and I groggily answered it looking at my caller ID.
"What?" I asked.
"Morning to you too." Aaron laughed.
"It's 9:30 Aar." I sighed.
"Aren't you in work by 9?" He asked.
"I took off today."
"Ooh, well good. Meet me for lunch then."
"Fine. What time?" I asked.
"12:30 at Planet Hollywood."
"Aaron�" I whined.
"What?"
"You're only going to Planet Hollywood because you know it will cause a big stir."
"But I like the chicken crunch." I laughed.
"Can we order it to go or something?"
"Come on, you know you like being seen with thee Aaron Carter." Aaron said and I could tell he was grinning.
"You are so full of yourself."
"Yes, and yet you're so nice not to mention it in your magazine." He joked.
"Watch your step and I'll start."
"Mackenzie, just come on. You know I love Planet Hollywood and the more I go in there, the more my picture winds up on their wall." Aaron laughed. I rolled my eyes.
"Fine, but we're going in very casually." I said.
"Right."
"Now let me go back to sleep."
"Oh, and if you for some reason talk to my Mom anytime soon�I was with you until 3am."
"Aaron, I don't like covering for you when you do God knows what you do." I said, not wanting to know. That was something I kind of liked about our friendship. We never really talked about love or sex or whom we dated and all that crap.
"I wasn't doing anything bad, I just lost track of time."
"So if I say you were with me then you're Mom is going to blame me!" I groaned.
"Fine, don't cover. I'll say me and Mike got caught up in a game of pool."
"No, what do you want me to tell her?" I asked.
"I was going to have you say that, but it's more believable if Mike was playing with me, because we all know how you suck at pool." Aaron laughed.
"Okay, I'm going back to bed now." I said.
"Okay, see you at 12:30. Meet me out front." Aaron said before saying goodbye and hanging up. I quickly fell back asleep, only to wake up to my cell phone ringing again.
"Morning sunshine!" Erica's voice sang. I groaned.
"Erica, shouldn't you be at school or singing your little heart out or something?" I asked.
"I am about to go into the studio actually. I'm finishing the last song today, you know."
"Yes, I am your publicist. I tend to know these things." I laughed.
"Well, sometimes you're too busy little miss publicist." I sighed.
"I'm sorry Ric. That's why you need a manager. Publicists are only in charge of publicity."
"Then find me a manager girl." She joked.
"I'm working on it." I replied.
"But you know what I'm also working on?" I asked.
"What?"
"Sleep. Night Erica." I said and she laughed.
"Night Mac."
"Good luck in the studio today."
"Thanks." She replied before hanging up.
Besides the magazine and the concerts I put together, I was also a publicist for a few unsigned artists and one artist who was just signed. Erica was the first to become my client. It wasn't planned, it just happened. We were friends. She was a popular unsigned artist in the magazine, viola, next thing I know, I'm her publicist.
I guess you could say I'm a work-a-holic. I do find it easier now that school's over and done with. Trying to run a magazine along with school was extremely frustrating. Now my next step was to bring Spotlight to newsstands. About eight months ago, we started making money off of it by taking subscriptions through our website.
About a half an hour later, I found myself getting in the shower. Once I was ready, I sat down across from Trista at the kitchen table.
"Tired?" She asked.
"Uh huh." I said and she laughed.
"Wait, what are you still doing here?" I asked.
"I kind of woke up late." She grinned.
"You're lucky I'm a nice boss." I joked.
"Well, I was out late last night too. I should have taken off."
"Tris, you're my assistant. If you take off, that means no one truly reliable will be there."
"Keely will hold down the fort."
"Not today. She has an audition." I smiled.
"Oh, that's right. Wait, that means I'm stuck in the office all day with Dana and George, the lovebirds?" Trista asked with a disgusted look on her face. I laughed.
"I guess so. Sorry love." I grinned.
"Ooh, you're going to pay for this."
"I know." I laughed.
"So what are you going to do on your day off?" Trista asked pulling her bag on her shoulder.
"Meeting Aaron for lunch and maybe just check in with Erica at the studio."
"Cool. Oh, tonight I'm making dinner and Keely's coming over."
"Sounds good to me."
"You can invite Aaron if you want."
"Trista, if I invite Aaron-"
"Keely will behave." Trista laughed.
"I don't know. The last time, she kind of stared at him for an hour." I said laughing.
"And like you didn't the first time you met him."
"Okay, so the kid kind of has that effect on you." I smirked.
"Yeah, that's not all he has an effect on." She said glancing down at my shirt.
"What?" I asked.
"Do you always let your boobs out for lunch?" She asked and I cracked up, though I was appalled.
"Hey, you encouraged me to buy this shirt."
"Yeah, and I thought you'd wear it to a club. Not to molest seventeen year old pop stars." I smacked her arm.
"Fine, I'm going to change." I said as Trista grabbed my arm and swung me around.
"No you won't. I'm just messing with you. But I must get to work now before I get fired." Trista said. I nodded and hugged her before she left.
I laughed lightly to myself. Trista was always teasing me about everything. She had a great sense of humor and could make me laugh about anything. She had a sharp-wit and a "whatever" attitude that I admired. She was more than a best friend; she was a sister to me.
I pulled my denim jacket on and grabbed my bag. I headed out into the March air. I couldn't wait for spring to come already. I walked to the subway and took it two stops to Times Square. Once there, I passed a few teenagers waiting at the side entrance of MTV hoping to get into the studio.
I crossed the street and waited outside of Planet Hollywood. About ten minutes later, Aaron and Mike got out of a van.
"Hey." Aaron said hugging me, before Mike did.
"I'll see you guys later." He said quickly.
"You're not going to hang with us?" Aaron asked.
"No, Richard's on his way. I'm meeting Nick downtown." Mike said and Aaron nodded. Mike got in the van and took off.
"Nick's in town?" I asked.
"Yeah, I'm supposed to meet up with him tonight." We just stood there waiting for Richard.
"Can we wait for him inside, I'm cold." Aaron said.
"He's your bodyguard. Why are you asking me?" I laughed. Aaron shrugged and we waited in the front part of the restaurant. Aaron looked over to a ramp and I gave him the eye.
"Aaron, no�" I said, but it was too late. Aaron ran up the ramp as the fake photographers said, "Over here please!" I laughed as the workers looked at him.
"Aren't you�" One guy began, looking at a picture of Aaron on the wall.
"Nick Carter, nice to meet you." Aaron said shaking his hand. I laughed and hit his stomach. Richard finally made his way into the restaurant and we took the elevator to the third floor.
We were escorted to a table right in the open and I shook my head, knowing Aaron would be pleased. We sat down and Aaron glanced over at the menu and I placed my hand across it.
"Why bother?" I asked and Aaron laughed.
"Doesn't hurt to look." He said glancing back at the menu.
"Ooh, this sounds good." Aaron said pointing at a pasta dish.
"Yeah, it does." I agreed.
"You gonna get it?" He asked with eyes lighting up.
"No." I said glancing over the menu.
"Mac, why?" He whined.
"Stop whining." I said.
"You sound like my Mom." I looked up from my menu and shot him an evil look.
"Sorry." Aaron said with a snicker. The waiter came over and I decided on a salad. Aaron protested as the waiter walked away.
"I'll have the chicken crunch with some fries." I ordered.
"Chicken Caesar salad." Mackenzie ordered and I groaned. Richard then ordered and I turned toward Mac.
"You should have gotten the pasta."
"Aaron, I'm not ordering what you want so you can pick off my plate." Mac said figuring me out. Damn, how can girls be so good at that?
"Why a salad though?" I asked.
"Don't start." She warned.
"Start what?" I laughed.
"The whole I'm a girl and I eat salad because I don't like to eat real food in public routine." She said mimicking me. I snickered. I always did say that to her.
"I already told you I love chicken Caesar salad. It's my favorite." She defended. She was kind of cute when she was defensive. Her eyes widened and her eyebrows furrowed and her lips stuck out, like she wanted to be kissed.
"Okay, I believe you." I said resting my case. She smiled victoriously. Just then, a few little girls about ten years old walked over. I smiled at them and took their pens and papers from them, signing away. I really came to enjoy meeting fans over the years, even if I was about to eat and occasionally trying to have a private conversation.
After lunch, I turned to Mackenzie.
"What are you doing tonight?" I asked. She thought for a moment.
"Oh, Trista's making dinner. You're welcome to come." Mackenzie smiled. Home cooked meal? I'm there. I thought, but then I remembered Nick.
"Sounds tempting, but I was supposed to hang out with Nick tonight."
"Bring him along." She smiled widely.
"Okay, maybe I will. I'll let you know." I said hugging her, knowing she had to go do something and I had to get ready for an interview.
"Tell Nick I miss him." She smiled before walking away. I thought for a moment. Mackenzie missed Nick? Whatever. Maybe she liked Nick, but what else was new? Another problem I came across, if the girls didn't have a thing for me, they had a crush on Nick. It gets real old, real quick. If Mac has a thing for him, God help me, I'm not in the mood to play matchmaker.
I arrived at the studio and I could hear Erica's voice filling the room. I sat down next to one of her producers.
"How's she doing?" I whispered.
"Perfect. She's nailing it. We haven't even had that many takes." I smiled proudly. Erica had an amazing voice. Since day one, I always thought so, but I'm still amazed at how much it improves with each day.
Erica and I had a rocky friendship you could say. We argued over the stupidest things. By the end of the argument, we didn't even know what it started over. I feel as though it's a constant struggle, but relationships aren't supposed to be easy. She was still a best friend to me nonetheless and since she's been spending more time in New York, we've been getting along better. She's originally from Boston and goes to college there, but she's on winter break...the perfect time to finish recording her second demo. The first demo got her gigs at local shows. We're hoping this one will get her signed.
After Erica was finished, we sat down as the producer played back some of the tracks to see what little touches he could add.
"Trista invited me over for dinner tonight." Erica said and I smiled.
"Great, Aaron might be coming."
"Oh, cool." She said dully. For some reason, Erica didn't approve of my friendship with Aaron. She never came out and said it. Maybe one day, I'd actually get the nerve to ask her. I didn't want to argue over Aaron though, especially not before we were all having dinner with him.
"Oh and Nick's in town." I grinned.
"Mackenzie, I really don't care." She snapped. I rolled my eyes.
"So you're in one of those moods, huh?" I asked.
"What moods?"
"The I'm over Nick and he's a jerk mood." I groaned.
"I never said he was a jerk and my crush on him ended a long time ago." She explained.
"So why does he get attitude because you stopped thinking he was hot?" I asked. She sighed.
"I don't give him an attitude! I only met the man once! My God!" She said.
"Erica, don't fight over this."
"I'm not. We're having a discussion. Who's fighting?" She asked. I sighed.
"Look, this is a fight and I'm ending it now. I'll see you tonight." I said going to grab my jacket.
"Wait, Mac...I'm sorry if I'm a little defensive." She said.
"A little?"
"Okay, a lot. But I just I hate the fact that no matter how old I get, the fact that I had a crush on Nick Carter sticks with me." I nodded.
"Just be nice if you see him tonight."
"Aren't I always?" She grinned.
"Oh, yeah." I said.
I got to the studio just as Nick tried to throw a crumpled up piece of paper in the garbage and completely missed.
"Smooth there bro." I said shaking my head.
"Think you can do better?" Nick challenged.
"Oh yeah." I grinned. I walked over to the desk and grabbed a piece of paper before crumpling it up tightly. Mike walked in and instead of aiming for the garbage can, I aimed for his head. The paper ball bounced off his head and ricocheted into the can. I threw my arms up.
"Oh! Oh! Now what?" I said getting in Nick's face. Nick rolled his eyes and pushed me back.
"You're such a punk." He said pushing my head. I pushed him back and he grabbed me into a headlock.
"Mike, you're my bodyguard! Do something!" I yelled out to him as Nick tightened his grip.
"You're on your own." Mike laughed.
"Say it." Nick said. I groaned and refused.
"Say it." Nick said as I was losing breath.
"Nick Carter is the better Carter. I am just his little follower. He is my idol." I said with no emotion and Nick let me go laughing.
"Ass..." I muttered straightening my shirt.
"So did you get any work done today?" I asked looking at some papers with Nick's doodles on it and bags of chips and cans of soda everywhere.
"Yeah, we were just on break." I nodded with a roll of my eyes.
"Bro, what do you wanna do tonight?" Nick asked and I remembered Mackenzie's invitation.
"Dinner."
"Where? No fancy shit. They put all that green pretty stuff all over everything and it winds up tasting like crap." Nick said and I knew what he meant. I was tired of fast food, but I didn't want to resort to some fancy restaurant that I'm supposed to blow my money on like a normal rock star. I'd buy five more go-karts before I went to another ritzy French restaurant.
"No restaurants. How about some home cooking?" I asked and Nick laughed.
"And how would that happen when we're nowhere near our home?"
"Some friends of mine invited us to dinner."
"Friends of yours? Oh, you mean Mackenzie?" Nick asked like a dumb ass.
"Do I have any other friends in New York that actually know how to cook?"
"Who knows dude, I don't keep track of your friends. Mom okay with you going to Mackenzie's place?"
"Probably not, but she'll argue with me and you know I'll win."
"So I'm guessing Mike will have to tag along in order for you to win that argument, huh?" Nick smirked. I sighed and nodded.
"Aww, my little brother still needs a babysitter." He pinched my cheek and I slapped his hand away, before pinching the fat on his stomach.
"Oh, you are dead." He said as I took off running. After Nick tackled me and just sat his fat ass on top me, he got off and we got in the van and headed back to Nick's hotel.
"So should I tell Mac you're coming or not?" I asked since Nick still hadn't given me a straight answer.
"Yeah, Mac's cool. Is that chick going to be there?"
"Which one?" I asked. "Trista? Of course, she lives there." I said shaking my head, sometimes I wonder how he gets through life.
"No dummy. The one who was giving me major attitude."
"Oh, Erica...I don't know. Mac was visiting her in the studio today, so maybe."
"Wait, she sings dude?" Nick asked with a sly smile.
"Yeah, why you want to manage her?" I asked jokingly.
"No, but I'd like to see what she's got."
"Nick, chill."
"So you saw Mac today already?" He asked. I nodded.
"How is she?" He asked. I shrugged.
"Good."
"She's too old for you Aaron." Nick warned. What the fuck? What's this now?
"Screw you. She's just my friend." I said. What was going on? Is Nick trying to claim Mac now? It's not like I marked her my territory or anything, but damn I don't want Nick screwing up the only female friend I've got.
"You say she's just a friend..." Nick sang completely out of tune purposely and I rolled my eyes.
I went back to my hotel to shower and change after Nick argued with me about my hair looking greasy. I think the stylist for my interview this afternoon put way too much gel in and I looked like that Dream Street dude I used to tour with. Damn, he looked like a porcupine.
After I was showered, I walked out into the hallway to hear my Mom giving Mike the speech. She did this constantly and it was really starting to piss me off. Especially lately since it was pretty much me and her right now. My Dad's back home worrying about Nick's racing team. Angel's in Europe on some stupid modeling tour. I mean what the hell is a modeling tour? I gave her grief over leaving me, but after talking to Mac, I realized I was being a selfish asshole. I can't expect my twin sister to follow me around all my life. I was proud of her and happy she was doing her thing. Now it was just the mega-beast and me. It was actually a term that's been used by other people in the industry, probably started by Mackenzie...or who knows, maybe even Nick. Don't get me wrong, she's my Mom and I love her. She's not a bad woman. She's just ruthless and forever on my ass.
"Mike, let's go." I said making my presence known.
"Aaron, you can stay out until one tonight." Mom said. Ooh, a whole half an hour extra? Was I supposed to kiss her feet? Of course, I just smiled gratefully.
"Thanks Mom, you're the best." You have to sweeten her up a little in order to get your way.
Mike and I left the hotel and made our way to Trump, where the flocks of girls remained outside of his hotel. Why he insisted on staying at the same damn hotel when everyone knows he stays there, is beyond me. Well, I guess I can understand. Who am I to talk? I hang out in Times Square and go to the biggest tourist sites, knowing I'll get recognized. When I go back to my hotel though, that's me time. I need to be normal sometimes.
Nick came out and waved to the fans before getting in the van. The girls caught a glimpse of me and I waved as they pounded against Mike's window. He carefully drove away and we made our way down to Midtown Manhattan. I glanced over at Nick's outfit. He was kind of dressed up. His hair was even spiked. Jesus, if him and Mac...like each other? Kill me now.
I freshened my hair and make-up before walking into the kitchen to see if Trista needed any help.
"Smells great." I said glancing over her shoulder. She smiled.
"Thanks, see I told you watching those cooking shows would pay off." Trista said and I laughed.
"I picked at a carrot and dipped it in ranch dressing." A droplet landed on my cleavage.
"Ohh..." I whined.
"Oh, you decided to feed your boobs dinner as well today, huh?" Trista joked. I just laughed and wiped off the dressing.
"You look nice." I said examining her dress.
"Thanks. I try." She grinned.
"For Nick?" I asked. She blushed.
"I didn't say that." I nodded.
"No, you didn't have to."
"I wouldn't talk Miss Boobies!"
"I always dress like this...who would I be trying to impress?" I asked. She just shrugged before turning back to the stove. There was a knock at the door and I adjusted my shirt before opening the door. Keely stood behind it.
"Hi." She replied softly and shyly. I laughed.
"They're not here yet." I said pulling her inside.
"So how'd the audition go?" I asked.
"Okay, I guess." She shrugged.
"Keely, can you elaborate?" I asked. She sighed.
"Maybe I'm just not meant to act. Everyone else was so much better." She said plopping down at the kitchen table.
"Hey Keely." Trista said and Keely waved.
"You say this after every audition." I said.
"And every audition, I don't get called back." Keely sighed.
"That's not true!" Trista and I yelled.
"Okay, but most of them." She said. Keely had big dreams of going to Hollywood and being a famous actress, but she needed to be more confident in her ability to do that.
There was another knock at the door and Keely quickly straightened her skirt as I made my way down the hall. Aaron, Nick and Mike stood there. I have to say there were going to be some handsome men in my apartment tonight. All three sets of eyes hadn't even looked at my face yet. Suddenly, I felt self-conscious for wearing the shirt. Aaron hadn't made such a big deal about it over lunch, but then again I had my jacket on.
"Hello to you too." I said bringing their attention back to earth. Aaron smiled and kissed my cheek. Mike hugged me and then Nick squeezed the crap out of me.
"Long time no see." I said kissing his cheek.
"Too long." Nick said as I ran my hand through his spikes.
"Leave me alone..." He whined. I laughed. He was such a baby. Aaron brushed past us quickly and we followed. Aaron practically picked Trista off the ground startling her. Nick hugged her tightly and rubbed her shoulders as he glanced at what she was cooking.
"Aaron, you remember Keely right?" I asked. Aaron smiled and hugged her. Keely was surprised by the hug, but welcomed it. I just hoped she would let go sometime soon.
"I smell seafood." Keely said parting from the hug. Aaron sniffed himself and I laughed.
"What a dork." I said and he pushed me lightly.
"Don't push girls, Aaron." Nick said pushing him. I laughed and wrapped my arms around Nick's waist.
"Ah-ha, I have a bodyguard now too." I said sticking my tongue out. Aaron didn't crack a smile. He rolled his eyes and sat next to Keely.
"So is someone going to tell me why I smell seafood?" Keely asked as Mike took a seat on the other side of Keely.
"Because I bought shrimp cocktail." Trista mumbled under her breath.
"You what!?" Keely yelled, shocking Aaron, Nick and Mike. Trista and I on the other hand, expected the reaction.
"I love shrimp cocktail." Nick said happily. Trista brought over the tray and offered Nick and I some. We both took a shrimp and dipped it into the cocktail sauce. Trista smiled at Nick and he smiled back, not paying attention to where he was shoving the shrimp. He completely missed his mouth and got cocktail sauce all over his face and of course since he was right next to me, some landed where else, but my cleavage. Everyone cracked up and I searched for a napkin. Nick picked one up and placed it lightly on my chest. I laughed as the paper stuck to the cocktail sauce.
"Thanks." I said wiping it off. I looked over at Aaron and he was just staring at Nick.
"I can't believe you made seafood when you know how I feel." Keely said bringing us back to her dilemma. She was so neurotic about her disgust of seafood. You couldn't even eat it near her.
"You don't like seafood?" Aaron asked taking a bite of shrimp and chewing it in Keely's face.
"Eww...that's so gross." Keely pushed away from him. It almost looked as if he were going to kiss her, that's how close he was getting.
"Where is Erica already?" I said loudly, trying to cause a distraction. Sometimes Aaron's teasing is a little too flirtatious. Keely would easily succumb to Aaron's charm and that's what worried me if he had a thing back for her. Keely is twenty years old and I really don't think it would be wise for her to get involved with him. It would just be a sex thing and I hated to think of Aaron in that way...it creeped me out and Keely would tell the details and what if Aaron started telling me things? God, I did not want to play the middle friend.
Nick was really pissing me off. He's all over Mac and the worst part, she wasn't even pushing him away. So was it true then? They want to hook up or something? I could deal with it if they would at least admit to me they had feelings for each other.
I looked next to me and Keely's skirt was hiked up a little as she crossed her legs. I grinned and smiled up at her. She was cute, kind of like a sweet innocence, but definitely had a wild side. There was a knock at the door, breaking my stare on Keely.
"Do I always have to get the door?" Mackenzie asked.
"It's your place." Mike said. She shrugged.
"Nick answer it, please?" She said. I looked down at her feet and knew why she didn't want to answer the door.
"Mac, take your shoes off if your feet are killing you."
"No, because then you'll make a joke how my feet stink." She said crossing her arms over her chest.
"Why don't you just have Nick bathe them for you?" I shot at her. Not one of my best sarcastic remarks, but it was the best I could do off the top of my head. She gave me a confused look and I quickly turned my attention toward Keely.
"So Keely, you're into acting right?" I started a conversation with her. I kept moving closer to her, so that her thighs were pressed against mine. Mike and Trista shared a knowing look.
"What the hell is your problem?" Nick yelled and I looked over at Mackenzie, who quickly made her way down the hall to the front door. I shrugged. Nick can be an ass sometimes, let Mac deal with it.
"We should hang out sometime." I whispered into Keely's ear as Mike and Trista discussed culinary arts or some shit. She pulled back slightly and smiled.
"Really?" She asked surprised by my forwardness I guess, but shy was something I knew I wasn't. Mac's got a lot of hot friends and I'd be happy to take any of them, but I never made the move because I thought it'd be crossing an unwritten line. It's not like me messing around with one of Nick's female friends. You know, they're not as close. But when you mess with a chick's friends, you're as good as dead if you're just playing around. Since Mac seems to have no problems crossing that line, why should I? I'm not saying that I'd just want to use Keely for some action and drop her, but I know what I want and right now commitment is something out of the question for me. In my eyes, love was extremely overrated.
"How about tomorrow night, we go chill at a club or something?" I asked. Keely smiled and nodded. I hardly know this girl. I could have at least waited until the end of the night, but screw it. She was definitely into me, so what's the harm? I turned my attention back to the arguing in the hallway and wondered what was going on. Trista set the food out in front of us with Mike's help.
"Dinner's served!" Trista yelled, but the arguing continued. I was hungry and getting impatient.
"Big Mac!" I yelled and the arguing stopped. Mackenzie came storming down the hall like a bitch in heat. Oh shit.
What the hell was Aaron doing? He was practically gawking at Keely. I heard Nick and Erica arguing down the hall and reluctantly I went to break it up.
"What's going on?" I asked, looking between Erica and Nick.
"She balled me out for answering the door." Nick yelled.
"No, I didn't. He opens the door and doesn't say anything, just goes to walk away. How rude is that?" Erica asked looking at me. I just glanced at Nick.
"I said come on in." Nick defended.
"Well, how low did you mumble it because I didn't hear you." Erica said.
"Okay look, Erica drop the attitude. Nick, just be the bigger person." I said and Erica scoffed.
"You're taking his side?" She asked. I sighed.
"You were a bitch to me the last time, of course she's taking my side." Nick said. Why doesn't he shut up when he's supposed to? I thought as Erica erupted into a fit of defenses to why she had an attitude.
"It was a bad first impression. I had a bad day." Erica defended. Nick rolled his eyes.
"Yeah, you were PMSing." Nick said.
"That's not--" Erica began.
"An excuse to be a bitch? You're right. It's okay. I accept your apology." Nick smirked.
"Uh--" Erica began.
"Guys, please stop. This is ridiculous and childish." I said and I heard Trista yell something about dinner as the arguing continued.
"Big Mac!" Aaron yelled and I saw red as I stormed down the hall.
"Get up, now!" I yelled. Aaron looked shocked. I've never been angry with him before.
"Mac, I'm--" He began.
"Inside now!" I yelled pointing to my bedroom. He walked into the room and I slammed the door behind us.
"I can't believe you called me that." I said just staring at him looking for any sign of remorse on his face, but it didn't seem to show through, not even the tiniest bit.
"I was just kidding."
"You knew how I hated being called that when I was little. I told you that." I said crossing my arms and suddenly, there was the remorse that I was waiting for.
"Oh my God, Mac I completely wasn't thinking about that. I was joking." He said coming closer to me and resting his hands on my shoulders. Big Mac was a nickname I was teased with in elementary school. I was chubby back then and I never wanted to be called that again.
"You should take it as a compliment." Aaron said stupidly. I just looked at him like he was retarded.
"I love Big Macs." He grinned and I laughed.
"Also, why are you being so angry toward me?" I asked.
"I'm not angry toward you." He laughed. I just glared at him.
"I just wish you would have told me."
"Told you what?" I asked confused.
"That you have a thing for Nick." Aaron said. I had a what for Nick? Where the hell did he get that idea from? Unless Nick had a thing for me...I wondered.
I was actually surprised at myself for confronting Mackenzie about Nick. It was kind of awkward since we never talked about relationships and feelings. It was like the one thing we avoided and I liked it that way. She didn't ask and I didn't have to tell. I had to admit I was curious about her sex life though. I mean she didn't have a boyfriend and she acted so innocent all the time. I wondered if she really was or was there something I was missing? Maybe she was a slut for all I knew. I seriously doubt it though. You can usually spot that type out a mile away and Mackenzie Wiley definitely had a certain class underneath her low-cut shirts and pretty smile. You just knew she wasn't a skank. Angel had actually referred to her as that once. My mom infected her brain and I flipped that they'd even talk about her like that.
"I don't have a thing for Nick." Mackenzie said with a bit of a laugh.
"You don't?" I asked. Was she lying? I wondered.
"No, what gave you that idea?" She asked.
"I'm not sure. The fact that you missed him...oh man, I don't know. I jumped to conclusions." I said feeling like a complete ass.
"Missing someone is evidence of crushing on someone?" Mac asked and she just made me feel even more stupid.
"I missed you and we're just friends." She said and we both just kind of stood there.
"And you know, I miss Mike and when Trista goes away somewhere, I miss her." Mac rambled and I nodded.
"Right. I'm sorry." I apologized and I even forgot what I was saying sorry for exactly. I shrugged and walked out of the room.
We walked into the kitchen and everyone seemed to start without us.
"Thanks for waiting." Mac said sarcastically.
"Sorry." Trista apologized. Nick was munching away and I just shook my head. Sometimes I wonder how people can think we're so much alike. I took a huge bite out of my chicken as I felt juice dribble down my chin. Mackenzie laughed and Keely wiped my chin for me. After dinner, Mac asked to speak to Nick and all I could think about was now she was going to tell him what I thought and they'd laugh and make fun of me for thinking it.
Nick and I stepped into my room and he looked slightly confused.
"What's up?" He asked.
"Is...well..." God, this was stupid. I changed my mind on asking Nick straight out.
"Is there a reason you got all dressed up?" I asked. Nick blushed.
"I wanted to look nice."
"Any particular reason?" I asked. Nick shrugged.
"I knew all your friends would be here." He said and I smirked.
"They're that obvious about it huh?"
"About what?" He asked cluelessly. Why did I feel like this conversation was going to go nowhere?
"My friends, they tend to..." I began, but if Nick was really that clueless, I wasn't going to blow their cover.
"What? I made a fool of myself huh?" He asked.
"Not that I remember." I said. He really was confusing me.
"Well, will you help me out?"
"Help you?" I wondered. What in the world was he talking about? Maybe he'd break out in song and end the confusion.
"I mean they're your friends."
"What does this have to do with my friends again?" I asked. Nick sighed.
"Can you set me up?" He finally asked. I laughed and he groaned.
"Thanks Mac. That's comforting." Nick said going to walk by, I grabbed his arm.
"Nick, I wasn't following. I'm sorry. Which one of my friends do you want me to set you up with?" He shrugged.
"Well, do any of them like me? Have they said anything to you?" Nick asked. Oh if he only knew. I laughed lightly.
"Still not making me feel comfortable." He sighed.
"Nick, what is your problem?"
"What do you mean?" Nick asked.
"You're Nick Carter, last time I checked you could have any girl you want." I said and Nick smirked slyly, a little more of the confident side of him showing.
"I know that." He said and I raised an eyebrow as he laughed.
"But they're your friends. I figured you'd help me out."
"Honestly, Nick I can't." I said and his face saddened.
"Why?"
"Because all of them have a thing for you in one way or another and it wouldn't be fair if I just picked for you. So you go for the one you want." I said and suddenly, I felt like I was offering Nick taster's choice of my best friends. Nick nodded.
"Wait..." Nick said as I went to walk away.
"Yeah?"
"Even Erica?" He asked. I shrugged.
"At least she used to." I said before walking out of the room. Mike raised an eyebrow and Aaron just looked curious. I shook my head at them, just as Keely sat next to Aaron and casually placed her hand on his knee. If Aaron was so annoyed at me for not telling him I had feelings for Nick, then why didn't he tell me about his thing for Keely?
Nick came out and walked over to Trista.
"Great meal. Thank you so much." He said kissing her cheek. She smiled at him and they looked cute together. Trista would be reeling if I told her she had a shot with him. One thing worried me, he would have taken any of them if they showed interest...so what exactly does he want? Trista isn't exactly the type of girl you love and leave in a day.
I was watching TV as Keely laid her head on my shoulder. We didn't talk much. It was just a force that drew us together. I wanted her and it seemed she wanted me too. I glanced over at Erica sitting at the edge of the couch. Mike came over and brought her a glass of water. She shot a glance over in Nick's direction. Nick was talking to Trista, but he managed to catch Erica's glance and returned it. I knew that look in Nick's eyes. He wanted Erica. Makes sense...fight hard, screw hard.
I didn't like the feeling tonight held. It was just...I don't know. It seemed like some big miscommunication. Here I am thinking Nick and Mac have some hidden feelings for each other, but I was wrong. Still, throughout the night, Mackenzie seemed to stay clear of me. Was she still mad at me for the whole Big Mac thing? I smiled down at Keely and decided the night was done. Mike was making an effort to talk to Erica, but she just nodded her head, meanwhile, she stared at Nick with lust. Nick returned each one of her gazes, obviously undressing her with his eyes. I laughed, whatever.
"Guys, we should get going." I said standing.
"Yeah." Nick agreed looking over at Trista.
"Why don't we all go to a club tomorrow?" Nick asked. I groaned. I really didn't want Nick and Keely's best friends tagging along on our date.
"I can't." Trista sighed.
"Why?" Nick asked.
"Mac and I have to cover a concert." She said. At least Mac wouldn't come. I wouldn't want to give all my attention to Keely and I didn't want to make Mac feel out of place.
"You in?" Nick asked toward Erica.
"I guess." She shrugged, trying to play up her hatred for Nick...more like pent up sexual tension. We started saying goodbye. I took Keely down the hall and let my hands graze the sides of her body as I pulled her into a kiss that pulled her in for the kill. She responded by running her hands up the back of my shirt and I knew where tomorrow night would lead us. I pulled away and so did she, hesitantly.
"I'll see you tomorrow." I said pecking her lips once more. I was about to walk out the door, but then realized I didn't say goodbye to Mackenzie. I made my way down the hall to her bedroom, surprised to find her asleep on top of the blanket, fully clothed. I walked closer. Her shirt was rolled up, resting right below her chest. She looked like she was waiting for someone to jump into bed with her and after that kiss with Keely, I felt like it. I laughed the thought away. I pulled her shirt down and kissed her cheek before leaving the room.
I walked back down the hall and Trista sat in the kitchen.
"Where'd everyone go?" I asked.
"Erica and Keely went home. Nick and Mike are waiting downstairs for you." She said and I nodded.
"Have fun tomorrow." Trista said standing up and hugging me.
"Thanks, have fun at the concert." I said. She shrugged and I laughed.
"I sense your enthusiasm." I joked.
"It's some new boy band. Imitations are never as good as the real thing." Trista said.
"I feel ya. Well, thanks for dinner." I said hugging her once more. I walked outside and got in the van. There was already a conversation going on as I closed the door.
"Erica's begging for it." Nick said and Mike just stayed quiet.
"Trista seems to be more your type." Mike said and I sighed.
"Yeah...she's hot too. Who says I have to choose?" Nick asked and I just rolled my eyes and smacked his arm.
"Dude, don't be an ass." I said leaning back in the seat and closing my eyes as we drove back to the hotel.
I woke up the next morning, barely remembering how I fell asleep last night. Once we were ready, Trista and I both made our way out the door. We got to the office about fifteen minutes later, with our Starbucks in hand. We both strolled right past George and Dana, who were at it again. I groaned.
"This is an office..." I whined toward them.
"Sorry." I heard them both respond; surprised they took a breather from their lip-lock. I sat at my desk and checked messages, before Keely came into my office.
"What happened to you last night?" She asked. I shrugged.
"I fell asleep." I said simply. She handed me a disk.
"My story's done." She smiled. I took the disk from her.
"Thanks." I said before looking back at my computer screen. I guess you could say I was pretty short with her.
"Is something wrong?" She asked. I took a sip of my caramel mocchiato.
"No. Should there be?" I asked.
"No." Keely said unsure.
"Then don't worry." I said giving her my best smile. Keely nodded and walked out of my office, but no sooner did she return. I looked up at her expectantly.
"I'm going on a date with Aaron tonight." Keely confessed. I inwardly sighed. I had a feeling Aaron worked quickly, so it didn't surprise me.
"Cool. Have fun." I said. Keely smiled and walked out again, making her way to Trista's office. About ten minutes later, she came back in.
"Yes?" I asked.
"Are you mad at me?" Keely asked.
"Why would I be mad at you?" I asked with a sigh.
"For going out with Aaron." I laughed lightly.
"Why would I care? He's only seventeen and you're twenty." I said with a smirk and Keely sighed before plopping down in the chair across from me.
"Mackenzie, the difference is only three years. That's like you going out with Nick." She reasoned. Did people want me to go out with Nick? What the hell?
"Yes, except Nick and I are both LEGAL!" I stressed and she groaned.
"Is this really about our ages?" Keely asked.
"Actually no. It's the fact that you two were groping each other last night and I could only wonder what fun tonight will bring."
"Mac, I can handle myself."
"Maybe, but can Aaron control himself? No, and neither can you."
"Look if I'm not worried about getting hurt, why should you worry?"
"Because it sickens me."
"What? Me and Aaron together?"
"Yes, I mean the fact that I know what you two will be doing..."
"Or the fact that you think Aaron is yours?" Keely shot at me viciously. I was shocked a little.
"I don't think Aaron is mine. He's my friend though and I'd appreciate it if next time you want to feel each other up on my couch, you'd ask me first." I said getting up from my chair.
"Fine, the next time Aaron and I come over, can we hold hands and kiss...oh pretty please Mackenzie, master of all things Aaron?" Keely said with the sarcasm oozing. I sighed.
"Look, do what you want. I just don't want to know about it."
"Fine, won't mention it."
"Good, then we're cool." I said and Keely just nodded before walking out.
About a half an hour later, my phone rang.
"Spotlight Magazine, Mackenzie Wiley speaking." I answered.
"Ms. Wiley, this is Christina Hoguilera...I want you to retract that article right now that said I wasn't a slut!" A falsetto female voice said with an attitude. I laughed hysterically.
"Good morning Aaron."
"Damn, how'd you know it was me?" He asked.
"Who else would it be?"
"I don't know, your boyfriend." Aaron said and I snickered.
"Yeah, if I ever have one of those."
"Want me to set you up?" Aaron asked.
"No, thanks." I refused.
"Aww, why not?"
"Because you'll just set me up with some roadie guy with a potbelly and hairy beard."
"Damn, I thought he'd be your type." Aaron joked.
"What is your type anyway?" He asked. I sighed.
"Was there a reason you called?" I asked.
"Um, I don't know." He laughed.
"Oh, I wanted to ask you...what kind of flowers does Keely like?" Aaron asked. I rolled my eyes. It starts already.
"I don't remember. Ask Trista." I said aggravated. Just then, Nick knocked softly on the opened door.
"Hey, come in." I said surprised.
"Who's there?" Aaron asked.
"I thought I'd stop by and visit with my favorite magazine editor." Nick said and I laughed softly.
"Aaron, I'll talk to you later." I said hanging up. Nick sat down and we talked for a few minutes.
"So I'm going out tonight with two of your friends and Aaron." Nick said and I didn't know they were going too.
"Wait, Erica's going with you?" I asked surprised.
"Yeah. I don't know how that will go." Nick said.
"What are you hoping for?" I asked and Nick shrugged.
"A good time and for her to lose the attitude."
"Define good time." I said and Nick sighed.
"Dancing, laughing...the usual."
"And Trista?" I asked.
"Actually, is she here?" Nick asked. I nodded.
"I wanted to take her to lunch. That is if it's okay with you?" Nick asked. I smiled. Why does Nick feel the need to ask me, but Aaron couldn't give a damn if I was okay with him and Keely?
"Be my guest." I said and Nick smiled back before leaving the room, but he quickly came back in.
"Do I look okay?" He whispered. I giggled and nodded.
"Yes, Romeo." Nick grinned and walked back out. I sighed. If Nick and Trista worked out, I'd be really happy for both of them.
I sat in the Regis & Kelly studio waiting for Mom to finish up anything else. I kept thinking about tonight. Finally, she was finished and we made our way to the van. Once I got back to the hotel, I decided to pass out since I knew I'd be out late. The best part? I didn't worry about sneaking in tonight. Mom was flying to Florida for a meeting and wouldn't be back for about three days. Ah, freedom.
At about 11am, I woke up and decided to call Mackenzie. We talked for a little bit. She seemed distant still and then I heard Nick's voice. I could have sworn he was flirting. Maybe Mac was telling me the truth about not having something for Nick, but it seemed Nick was making it obvious how he felt about her. Since when does he make morning visits to her job? To any girl's job for that matter unless he really had it bad for them. I decided to just go back to sleep. I woke up around five, just in time to say bye to my Mom before she left for the airport.
"Behave yourself." She warned. I smiled innocently and grinned at Mike as soon as she turned around. After she left, Mike and I ordered room service.
"You're not coming tonight dude?" I asked surprised.
"No, I'd feel like a fifth wheel." Mike said.
"But you're my bodyguard man, what if something happens?" I asked.
"There are bouncers." Mike shrugged.
"Besides, Richard and I will drop you guys off and pick you up." Mike said and I nodded, though sometimes I really did feel like I had babysitters.
I put on a black dress shirt and pants before spraying a little cologne on. My hair was a little spikey. I shoved my wallet in my pants and met Mike and Nick in the hall. I looked over at Nick's outfit and we both laughed. He had the same thing on in all white.
"What is this ebony and ivory?" Mike cracked on us.
"Man..." I said toward Nick.
"Dude, get your own look." Nick shot at me.
"Whatever." I said rolling my eyes and pushing him.
We were meeting Keely and Erica outside of the club. We offered to pick them up, but with traffic and all, they figured it would be easier. Nick got out and I followed. Mike and Richard waited until they saw the girls before pulling away. I looked over at Keely and my tongue hit the floor. Her shirt stopped right after her chest and was low-cut. She had tight ass low-cut jeans as well. I glanced over at Erica and she was dressed to kill also.
I walked over to Keely and took her hand as Nick and Erica just looked at each other.
"You look hot." I whispered in Keely's ear. She smiled innocently before thanking me.
"Looking pretty hot yourself." She said as her arm rested right above my ass.
"Let's go in." Nick said and we walked into the club without a problem. I never got IDed. The perks of being famous. The music was blasting and the club was packed. Keely started to move to the music instantly.
"You want a drink?" Nick screamed into Erica's ear.
"Yeah." She yelled back.
"I'll get us a table." She said slipping into the crowd and finding one toward the back. Nick took off for the bar and Keely led me out to the dance floor. I pulled her close against me and let my hands guide her hips into me. Her body hit against mine every few seconds and pretty soon she took control and grinded herself into me. I was in heaven. I ran my hands all along her back as we danced and once we were tired, we found Nick and Erica at the table, both looking buzzed.
"Why don't you guys dance or something?" I suggested, since I doubt they even talked.
"Yeah, I want to shake my ass!" Erica yelled like a maniac before standing up.
"Dude, she wants you." I whispered in Nick's ear laughing. He got up and took her hand as she dragged him onto the dance floor. I ordered Keely and I a drink. I rested my hand on her thigh and inched it up as I trailed kisses along her neck. Our drinks came and I pulled away. I downed my shot and Keely sipped her margarita. She took some of the salt off the rim of the glass and rubbed it on my lips before sucking it off. Damn, this girl was my speed.
"I can't hold out much longer. I want you Keely." I said kissing up to her ear. She nodded as her hand played with the hairs on the base of my neck. I wondered if she was normally this...easy? I don't really want to put it that way because I didn't care. Maybe it was just because she wanted me. I didn't give a fuck. I kissed her fiercely, wanting more.
After another hour of bump and grinding on the dance floor and playing kissy at the table, I told Nick I wanted to leave. He and Erica were beyond wasted at this point. Erica was all over him and Nick didn't mind one bit. Nick nodded and I called Mike. We dropped Nick and Erica off at Nick's hotel and headed back to mine. Mike looked pissed.
"Dude, what's your problem?" I asked as Keely laid her head on my shoulder.
"Nothing." Mike snapped. Whatever. He's just being an ass. We got back to the hotel and once we got inside my room, Keely and I started shedding clothes fast.
Afterwards, I looked over at her sleeping. She was so beautiful. The weird thing was, I hardly remember talking. Did we ever have a full conversation? I shrugged it off and wrapped my arm around her waist, wanting to feel her skin on mine again. Thoughts of Nick and Mackenzie entered my mind. If Nick liked her, what the hell was he messing around with Erica for? If Mac falls for my brother and he screws her over, I'd kick his ass or at least I'd try to. I looked down at Keely again and sighed. Was this a one-night stand?
I sat at my desk the next day, the memory of the concert still in my head. Being groped while I was trying to do an interview was not something I enjoyed. Trista even got a phone number out of the deal, which she tossed immediately. Something I was happy about last night was that Nick did ask Trista out for tomorrow. I glanced at the clock and noticed it was after ten. Trista walked by and I called out to her.
"Yeah?"
"Did Keely come in yet?" I asked. Trista shook her head. I sighed. I called her house and got the machine. Just as I was leaving a message, Keely walked in.
"Sorry I'm late." She mumbled before walking out again.
"Did you two have a fight?" Trista asked.
"No." I said, not really considering our Aaron discussion a fight. Trista walked out a moment later. The phone rang and I answered, only to be met by fits of excitement and then an "Ow!"
"Erica?" I asked.
"Yeah, it's me. Just talk softly. I have a headache." She said.
"You drank last night, huh?" I asked, knowing how crazy she gets when she gets a drop of alcohol in her system.
"Yeah, but something amazing happened last night." She said and I waited for her to finish.
"Nick and I didn't fight!" She said.
"Wow, that is amazing." I smiled.
"No, that's not even the amazing part." Erica said and I narrowed my eyes, wondering where this was getting at.
"Nick and I, well we got pretty drunk, so we were both such retards." She said in her Boston accent, followed by a laugh.
"We wound up back at his hotel--"
"Erica, you didn't!" I yelled.
"I did." She said proudly.
"Mac, it was incredible. He more than lived up to my dreams."
"Erica!"
"I know!" She squealed happily. This wasn't happening. Erica did not just tell me she had sex with Nick Carter, while Trista has a date with him tomorrow.
"Wait, let me get this straight...you and Nick got drunk."
"Uh-huh." She said.
"Went back to his hotel..."
"Uh-huh."
"And had sex?" I asked.
"Mmm-hmm." Was it me or did she not find anything wrong with this picture?
"Erica!"
"Mackenzie!" She laughed.
"You said you were over him. You even called him a jerk." I pointed out.
"That was because I thought he was out of my reach. He made my dreams come true last night." Erica said and I covered my face with my hand.
"You had a one-night stand." I sighed.
"Screw you Mac, what are you jealous or something?" Erica asked. Ugh!
"If one more person accuses me of anything with Nick, I'll--"
"No, I meant because you can't get any from Aaron." Erica said thinking she was funny.
"That's not true." I said trying to think of something to say.
"Oh, so you and Aaron have had illegal relations?" She asked with a laugh.
"No, Erica stop it."
"You're so transparent."
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"Yeah, you do."
"What do you have against mine and Aaron's friendship?" I yelled.
"Nothing, except for the fact that you want him and you use him because you don't have anyone else." Erica shot at me. That hurt.
"Well, maybe I should sleep with guys in a drunken stooper like my good friend, Erica." I said as my voice cracked and I slammed the phone down.
"Wow...I don't want to get on your bad side today." Aaron laughed coming in. I looked up at him trying to hide the tears, but his eyes widened.
"Mac, what's wrong?" He asked coming over to me.
"Nothing." I said trying to look away, he guided my face to look at his with his hand.
"Don't lie to me. My mom said it causes wrinkles." Aaron smirked.
"Then why isn't she shriveled yet?" I asked and Aaron snickered.
"Be nice. She's still my mom." He warned and I nodded.
"Come on, let me take you to lunch and we'll talk." Aaron said taking my hand and pulling me up. I didn't want to, but I knew Aaron wouldn't take no for an answer. We walked across the street to a deli and sat down.
"What are you doing here anyway? Don't you have anything better to do than to hang around my office?" I teased.
"Well, it seems all my friends are at work when I have the day off."
"Where's Nick?" I asked.
"Recovering from a hangover." Aaron snickered. I nodded and sniffled, still upset about my conversation with Erica. I really didn't want to talk about any of it with Aaron though because I knew it would lead us into that conversation we never had...the relationship talk. Aaron didn't know my history with guys and I wanted to keep it that way.
Mackenzie was asking everything under the sun, thinking I would just let the fact that she was still on the verge of tears, pass by. Finally, I gave her hand a squeeze.
"Tell me what's wrong."
"I had a fight with Erica." I rolled my eyes.
"What else is new?" I asked.
"She slept with Nick last night." Mac said and I groaned.
"I thought you said you didn't have a thing for Nick." I said, but Mackenzie sighed.
"I don't. Trista has a date with Nick tomorrow." She said and I nodded, remembering Nick mentioning it to me.
"I mean does he think he can just sleep around with all my friends and them not care about it?" Mac said.
"So this is what made you cry?" I asked, really hoping that she wouldn't worry about everyone else's problems too much. She always did that.
"No. She said some hurtful things." Mackenzie said looking down.
"Well, what did she say?" I asked, wishing she'd just spill it already.
"Aaron, I really don't want to talk about it."
"Mac, tell me. I'm your friend. I thought we were cool like that?" I asked, causing her to smile.
"She said I use you." I was shocked. How the hell did Mackenzie use me? All she did was offer me help in my career. Sometimes I was afraid she'd think I was using her.
"You use me? For what?" I asked. Mac sighed.
"Apparently because she thinks I can't find a guy my own age to screw." Mackenzie said.
Screw? Did I miss something?
"But we're not screwing, so how could you use me for that?" I asked and then smirked.
"I mean not that I would mind." I said and she smiled and pushed me lightly.
"I don't know what she's talking about. She doesn't make sense. She basically was trying to say I keep you as a friend because I can't get a real man." Mac explained. Ouch. Shoot me down why don't you? It made me wonder if those were Erica's thoughts or Mac's. She must have seen the look on my face because she put her hand on my shoulder.
"I didn't mean it like that. I meant a boyfriend or something." She corrected and I nodded.
"Well, you don't need a man to make you feel good." I defended her and she smiled at me gratefully.
"It surprises me that you don't have one though." I admitted. She blushed slightly, just then Keely and Trista walked into the deli and both were surprised to see us.
"Hey!" Trista greeted. Keely looked over at me and I smiled at her. She smiled back and Trista made herself at home at our table. Keely walked closer awkwardly looking between me and Mackenzie.
"Oh, are we interrupting something?" Trista asked and I looked down at my hand still placed on top of Mac's. We both pulled away.
"I had a fight with Erica." Mac said as if it were an excuse for our hands to be touching. Whatever, people thought what they wanted to anyway.
"Ugh..." Trista said annoyed about Erica and Mac's fighting. Keely was still standing there.
"Have a seat." I said. She smiled and sat down next to Mac. They didn't make eye contact and I wondered what was going on there. Keely couldn't look me in the eye without blushing and I couldn't help but to think of last night each time I looked over at her.
"So what time you going out with Nick tomorrow?" I asked Trista and Mac kicked me under the table. I rolled my eyes at her.
"Eight." She grinned. Trista was a beautiful girl and had a great personality. I admire hers and Mac's friendship, it reminded me of a girl version of Nick and I. Nick is an ass if he screws her over. I wondered if Mackenzie was going to tell Trista about Nick's night of lust with Erica.
I sat there annoyed that Aaron brought Nick up to Trista. He's such a dumbass sometimes. What annoyed me more was sitting at the same table as Aaron and Keely. There was definite awkwardness in the room. It only led me to believe one thing...they slept together. The thought sickened me to no end and worse yet, Keely and I were barely on speaking terms.
I thought back to what to do about Nick and Erica. Do I tell Trista and squash the idea of Nick and her before it could start? Or do I keep it from her, even though it could play an important factor in her feelings toward Nick? Maybe I should just talk to Nick and see where he stands.