Aaron and I pulled apart in an instant, but it was obvious that none of this looked innocent. Here Aaron was in his boxers and I was in my tiny pajama set, both in bed�in each other�s arms.
�What the hell is going on here!?� Jane yelled so loud I think the whole hotel heard.
�I knew you were keeping something from me!� Angel yelled toward Aaron, placing her hands on her hips.
�It�s not what it looks like.� I sighed.
�Oh, it�s not?� Jane asked, still her voice was in a yell.
�No, it�s not.� Aaron groaned. Nick walked in and looked at the situation.
�Shit, Mom knows about you two?� He asked. I closed my eyes and I could have killed him right then and there. Aaron looked like he wanted to punch him, but we both looked back toward Jane.
�I�I can�t fucking believe this!� Jane yelled through gritted teeth.
�Mom��
�I always knew you were a tramp who hung around my son for some reason!� Jane yelled and I winced.
�Don�t call her a tramp!� Aaron yelled.
�Aaron, don�t defend her.� Angel sighed. I suddenly felt lower than dirt.
�How long has this been going on?� Jane asked. I didn�t want to answer. I didn�t know whether to tell the truth or start making up lies.
�Was this going on while I was away?� Jane asked and I couldn�t look at her. She came closer to me.
�Look at me.� She said sternly. I looked into her eyes and she knew the answer.
�Cradle-robbing bitch!� Jane yelled and pushed me down on the bed. Nick quickly grabbed Jane and held her back.
�Let go of me Nickolas.� She ordered.
�No, Mom. You can�t blame Mackenzie for this.� Nick told her.
�She betrayed my trust! She was sleeping with my son behind my back!� Jane yelled and Aaron and I intervened.
�No!�
�No what?� She asked.
�We did not sleep together.� Aaron said forcefully.
�How can I believe that?� She asked.
�They didn�t Mom.� Nick said. Jane looked at him somewhat shocked.
�You knew about all of this and you didn�t try and stop it?� Jane asked.
�What? Now you�re going to put this on me?� Nick asked appalled.
�Wait a minute!� Aaron yelled. We all just looked at him.
�This was our choice okay? We don�t have to explain ourselves to anyone! We care about each other and we were trying things out, but it�s over. It�s all over, so just drop it.� Aaron said pissed off and walked out of the room.
�What does he mean it�s over?� Trista asked.
�Aaron and I aren�t seeing each other like that anymore.� I said.
�Mackenzie, I don�t want you around my son anymore.�
�Jane, I�m sorry that we went behind your back, but I know how much you hate me and--�
�Save it for someone who cares.� Jane said walking out. I let out a sigh and looked up to see Angel.
�You really make me sick.� Angel said before walking out as well.
I plopped back down on the bed and Trista sat beside me.
�I�m sorry. Just as I was opening the door, they appeared behind me.� She said rubbing my back. I nodded and let a few tears fall.
�Mac, don�t let my Mom make you cry.� Nick said sitting on the other side of me. I put my head on Trista�s shoulder and sobbed. The weird thing is, I don�t even think all my sobs were about Jane. How come Aaron took everything so well? He just let us end things without a fight or even a pout. I guess I really was just a toy for him to play with. He�ll find a new one soon.
I got to my room and begin kicking and slamming things before falling onto the bed. I let out an aggravated yell. My Mom could be such a bitch. I shutter to think of the problems she�ll give Mac now. I�m probably grounded until my eighteenth birthday. Nick walked in and sat down beside me. I didn�t even look up at him.
�This really sucks.�
�Tell me about it dude.� I sighed.
�Why does Mom always catch me just when I�m breaking up with the person?�
�You and Mac weren�t a couple so it wasn�t a break-up.�
�Yeah, well Keely and I weren�t a couple either.� I said.
�Dude, you haven�t had a real girlfriend since you were like fifteen.� Nick laughed.
�Yeah, so?�
�It�s kind of weird.�
�Whatever. I don�t need that hassle.� I groaned really not wanting to get into the topic.
�So why did you and Mac end it?�
�Jordan.� I sighed.
�He found out?� Nick asked wide-eyed.
�No, doofus. He and Mac are official now, so I�m out of the picture.�
�Dude, you�re still one of her best friends.� Nick said putting his arm on my shoulder.
�Yeah, I guess.� I sighed standing up.
�Aaron�� Nick said looking at me funny.
�It�s just�what if Mom forbids me to see her?�
�You�ll be eighteen before you know it.�
�I can�t go that long without seeing Mac�� I said and Nick snickered.
�Careful Aaron. Sounds like you�re in love. You wouldn�t want anyone to think that.� Nick grinned walking off into the bathroom. What a jackass.
There was a knock at the door. I opened it and saw Mom standing there. She looked pissed. She came in and stood in front of me.
�I�m trying to be calm about this Aaron.�
�Okay.�
�What were you thinking?�
�That�s just it Mom. Feelings aren�t always about thinking.�
�Feelings�you and Mac have feelings for each other?� She asked, her eyes wide.
�Yes, we�re best friends. We got caught up in the physical aspect of each other, but we never took it too far.� I explained.
�Aaron, I can�t trust you.�
�Mom, yes you can. I�m seventeen. I�m going to have girlfriends and sex and��
�Enough. What you had with Mackenzie was nothing more than a teasing game, wasn�t it?�
�Mom, it�s over. It doesn�t make a difference. We�re friends and that�s it.� I sighed.
�No Aaron. I can�t let you be around her knowing how she took advantage of you.�
�Took advantage of me!?� I practically laughed.
�Mom, honestly it wasn�t like that.�
�I could bring up charges on her if--�
�Mom, you better not!� I yelled.
�Don�t raise your voice to me!�
�Don�t do that to Mac.�
�I�m not, but I don�t want you seeing her after the tour.� Mom ordered.
�Mom, come on. You can�t do that to me.�
�Aaron, I mean it. If you two have to be at the same function together, then fine. But I don�t want you two alone.�
�Mom, Mackenzie has a boyfriend. Nothing more is going to happen between us.�
�What about Jordan? Does he have any idea about this?�
�No, they just started seriously dating last night, which is when we decided we had enough.�
�This whole situation sickens me. You�re punished for two months.�
�Mom!�
�That means no going out at night, no girls, nothing.� Mom spat out before walking out. I groaned and threw myself back onto the bed.
I laid on my bed thinking of what happened this morning. I felt like a little girl forced to stay in her room because Mama Jane told her not to come out. There was a knock at the door and I slowly got up and opened it. I wasn't surprised at who was standing behind it.
"We need to talk." Jane stated. I nodded and she walked in like she owned the place.
"Have a seat." I said softly.
"I rather stand." She said coldly. It actually made me shiver. "Mackenzie, I don't know what to do with Aaron anymore." She sighed crossing her arms.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"I don't like where he's headed."
"Jane, Aaron's a great--" I began, but was rudely interrupted.
"A great flirt and seducer�yeah, I'm becoming well aware of that." I closed my eyes and re-opened them.
"Jane, Aaron's young�" I started, but once again I was interrupted.
"Yeah, too young for you." I winced.
"Five years is not that big of a deal." I sighed.
"Don't try to make your ages right."
"You're an adult now and my son is still a child. He may think he's old enough to handle sex and relationships, but he's just a baby and you really should know better." Jane lectured.
"Look, Aaron means something to me. Do you think I just did this because it was a free ride?"
"I don't know. You tell me? From the moment I met you, I thought you wanted to get your hooks into my son!"
"Jane, all I ever wanted was respect."
"And this is the way you go about it!?" Jane yelled.
"No! I tried so hard to get an interview with Aaron�not because of any reason, but because I respected him as an artist and more than half my readers were fans of his! How many times do I have to explain that to you?" I yelled back.
"You cannot tell me you didn't want more from Aaron the moment you met!"
"I wanted to get to know him. What's so wrong with that?" I asked.
"Oh and you got to know him all right�sleeping in the same bed behind my back�doing God knows what to each other!"
"Why do you have to make it so dirty?" I asked as tears threatened to fall.
"Look who I'm talking to. A slut who's dating another guy while she messes around with my underage son!" Jane snarled and at that moment I wanted to slap her.
"I wouldn't talk."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Jane asked.
"At least I didn't pick my husband up on the side of the road hitch-hiking!" I shot at her. Jane pulled back and slapped me right across the face hard. I placed my hand over my cheek in shock. I was almost afraid to hit her back, knowing how fast she could slap charges on me. Trista came into the room just in time.
"Bitch�you will never EVER see my son again!" Jane said storming out and brushing past Trista. I laid down on the bed and curled my knees up crying. Trista came over to me and moved my hair out of my face, noticing my red cheek.
"She hit you!?" She asked in surprise. I nodded and Trista got up and walked out of the room. A few moments later she returned with Nick.
"What happened?" He asked and I sat up a little.
"Your freaking mother slapped Mackenzie!" Trista exclaimed. Nick's eyes grew wide and he examined my cheek.
"Jesus�what was said?" Nick asked.
"A lot." I sniffled. "She called me a slut and I said something about her picking your dad up hitch-hiking." I mumbled.
"Oh Mac�"
"Still no reason for her to smack her. She is not one of her children Nick." Trista gritted. Nick nodded.
"I'm going to talk to her."
"No, I really don't want everyone to get involved�"
"I'm going to talk to her too." Trista said, ignoring my comment. Both of them walked out of the room and before I knew it, I was alone.
Moments later, there was a knock at the door. I opened it to Keely, Shane and Jordan.
"We're taking you to lunch." Jordan smiled and pulled my hand. He really didn't know my facial expressions well at all.
"Is everything okay Mac?" Keely asked.
"Fight with Jane." I said, definitely not wanting to talk about this in front of Jordan.
"Oooh." Keely said knowingly. I knew she'd want to know everything later. got in the awaiting van and I was grateful for the distraction. I felt so hated right now and I couldn't bear to think of it. I mean Jane always hated me and I started to accept it since the feeling was mutual, but to know she hated me this strongly really bothered me.
I found myself at my mother's door and I took a deep breath before knocking. The door opened and Angel stood there. I walked inside and she just glared at me.
"What?" I asked annoyed.
"I can't believe you."
"What did I do so damn wrong?" I asked.
"Mackenzie�why? You can have any freaking bimbo you want, but you--"
"Angel Carter, shut up right now!" I said getting in her face.
"Afraid to hear the truth Aaron?" She asked.
"Mackenzie is a great person. She's different. It's not how it sounds."
"Oh so it's not the fact that you two are friends with benefits?"
"Well, yeah, but she doesn't do that kind of stuff with�" I started, but I felt weird talking about Mac's personal life with my twin sister who was being a bitch to her.
"Is that what she told you?" Angel asked with a laugh.
I narrowed my eyes, "Angel."
"So she doesn't kiss people like Jordan�and even Nick?" Angel asked.
"What are you talking about?" I asked.
"Jordan's her boyfriend now. He wasn't when we started this." I sighed.
"And Nick?"
"Mac and Nick had nothing going on."
"I heard some people saying they saw them kissing." Angel said raising an eyebrow.
"That was a stupid joke Angel."
"I can't believe you're going to stand here and defend her. Is she that good?" Angel asked and it took everything in me not to hit her. I never wanted to hit a girl before. I shoved Angel onto the bed.
"You know Aaron, I don't know you anymore. All you care about is sex, basketball and videogames. I guess I grew up and you didn't." Angel shot at me.
"Oh as opposed to your stuck up European model lifestyle? You've become such a bitch that I don't think I know you anymore." I shot back at her. Angel looked hurt and stormed out of the room.
I sighed and plopped onto the bed. A few moments later, the door opened and Mom walked in. She looked surprised to see me and before I could mutter an apology or anything Nick and Trista burst into the room.
"Mom, we need to talk." Nick said firmly. She turned toward them. Her prize people right now. I rolled my eyes at the thought.
"Okay." She said slowly.
"Mrs. Carter, I think you're taking this a little too far." Trista said delicately. Maybe they were my prize people right now instead.
"Trista, my son is my business." Mom said. Uh oh.
"Mom, you really are making a big deal out of this. You physically hurting people is really out of line and I'm shocked you'd stoop to that level." Nick said and I narrowed my eyes.
"Who did you physically hurt?" I asked and I got no response.
"Nickolas, she said some hurtful things. She had it coming."
"Mom, you called her a slut!" Nick yelled back.
"Wait, did you put your hands on Mac?" I asked standing up. Everyone ignored me again.
"Look Mrs. Carter, Nick and I would never want Mac or Aaron to get hurt." Trista sighed.
"Of course not. Nick thinks by letting his baby brother get as much action as possible, he's helping him out." Mom said crossing her arms.
"That's not true Mom. Look Mackenzie looks out for him. So big deal that they're attracted to each other. It's done now. Why can't you just let it go?" Nick asked.
"Let it go? Nick, I'm his mother. I'm supposed to just accept some older tramp coming in and seducing my son?"
"Mom�" I warned. "You weren't this mad over Keely." I pointed out.
"Keely's younger than Mac and you two actually had a relationship." Mom reasoned. Oh if she only knew. Trista and Nick both snickered, which only made Mom angrier.
"From now on, you're staying in hotel rooms with me and I'm not letting you out of my sight." Mom said sternly.
"Mom!"
"No, you can't be trusted. I thought you were at least mature enough to behave properly in a professional environment."
"I do!" I yelled.
"Don't raise your voice! And fooling around with the person in charge of the tour is not professional!" Mom yelled. I just stormed out of the room and went to mine. I slammed the door shut and laid on the bed, trying to wash away all of the horrible cuss words that were coming to mind when I thought of my mother.
As I sat in my room suddenly feeling imprisoned, my cell phone rang. I looked at the number and was unsure of how to react. I didn�t know whether to expect a lecture or what.
�Hey Dad.�
�Hi boy.� My dad laughed.
�Mom call you?� I wondered.
�Oh yeah. Aaron, Aaron, Aaron.� My dad said and I could tell he was smiling.
�You mad?�
�I�m not mad. Now your mother, oh she�s beyond mad.� Dad said and I sighed.
�Yeah, try being here with me.� Dad just laughed.
�So you and Mackenzie?� Dad asked. I rolled my eyes.
�It�s hard to explain.�
�You love her?� Dad asked.
�Of course, I consider her a best friend.�
�I mean do you love her like that?�
�No dad. We were just experimenting.� I reasoned.
�Experimenting? Aren�t you both a little old for that?�
�Not for experimenting with each other.� I joked.
�Aaron�you can�t take sex lightly, especially at your age.�
�Dad, I�m not. We haven�t even had sex. I would never do anything to hurt Mac and I know she wasn�t trying to hurt me.�
�But she did.� Dad said with a sigh. I narrowed my eyes.
�No, she didn�t.�
�She has a boyfriend now doesn�t she?�
�Yeah, but I�m happy for her.�
�Are you?�
�Yes.� I said confidently.
�Okay, so you two are okay then?�
�I hope so. I haven�t seen her since this morning.�
�Your Mom scared her off, huh?� Dad chuckled.
�She�s probably with Jordan.� I shrugged.
�Jordan? Oh is that her boyfriend?�
�Yeah. Dad, is Mom really not going to let me see Mac?�
�I�m trying to talk her out of it. You know how she feels about Mackenzie though.�
�Yeah.� I sighed.
�Aaron, you�ll be on the road anyway. In December you�ll be eighteen, so don�t worry.� Dad reasoned.
�Thanks Dad.�
�Until then, it might be hell though.� He cackled and I rolled my eyes.
�Tell me about it.�
�Look, I�ll see you when you come home next week. I miss you son.�
�I miss you too Dad.� I said before we said goodbye and hung up.
There was a knock at the door and I opened it to Erica. She smiled.
�Hi, what�s up?� I asked.
�Mac is waiting for you in the lobby. Do you think you can meet her?� Erica asked.
�Um, yeah. Do you know where Mike is though?� I asked.
�No, I wouldn�t know. I haven�t seen him much lately.� Erica sighed.
�Oh, okay. Well, then I guess I�ll get Nick to come with me.�
�He�s somewhere with Trista. Why do you need someone to go with you?� Erica asked.
�I need a cover for my Mom. Can you come with me?�
�I have a meeting with your Mom right now.� She giggled.
�Oh�� I said and thought for a moment when I heard, �I�ll go with you.�
Angel stepped out from behind the wall.
�Why? So you can report back to Mom?� I asked.
�No, because I�m your twin sister and we stick together.� She smiled. I smiled back.
�Thanks for telling me Erica.� I nodded at her.
�No problem.� She said walking away. We got into the elevator and we were both silent.
�I�m sorry.� Angel sighed.
�For?� I asked with a smirk.
�Everything.� She groaned, knowing I was going to torture her with a long apology.
�Even what you said about Mac?�
�Yes. I don�t know her that well enough to judge her.�
�Good. You�re forgiven.�
�Um, don�t you have something to say to me?� Angel asked.
�Nope.� I said as the elevator dinged and we stepped off. Angel smacked my chest and I pulled her into a hug.
�I�m sorry for calling you stuck-up and all of that stuff.� She smiled and we walked toward Mac.
Aaron and Angel approached me and I inwardly groaned. I didn�t need insults thrown at me by Angel now too.
�I�ll wait over here.� Angel said sitting in one of the chairs in the hall and picking up a fashion magazine. I looked back toward Aaron and he ran a hand over my red cheek.
�What happened?� He asked.
�Um, your Mom and I had some words. She insulted me, so I insulted her right back.�
�And she hit you?� Aaron asked, clenching his teeth. I nodded. It was kind of humiliating.
�I could�ugh!� Aaron clenched his fist. �I�m sorry Mac.�
�It�s not your fault.� I said placing my hand on his shoulder.
�Do you think this is all worth it?� I asked.
�Do you?� He asked.
�I asked you first.� I smiled.
�Definitely. I wouldn�t take any of it back.� Aaron said and I smiled.
�Me either.� I said.
�We�ll still get to see each other.� Aaron assured me.
�We still have that date on your eighteenth birthday.� I joked.
�Don�t tease me.� Aaron said bashfully.
�Hopefully we won�t have to wait until then to see each other.�
�No way. Mom can�t keep an eye on me twenty-four seven.� Aaron sighed. I nodded.
Jordan came walking by.
�Hey, there you are. I�ve been looking for you.� He smiled.
�Hey Aaron.� He said and Aaron just nodded toward him.
�Are you ready for the movie? We�re going to be late.� Jordan said putting his arm around me. It felt strange looking into Aaron�s eyes with Jordan by my side.
�Yeah, give me one second. Get a cab and I�ll meet you out there.� I said and he nodded before walking off. I hugged Aaron.
�Don�t let the beast gettcha down.� I grinned. Aaron laughed.
�You either. She has no control over you Mac.�
�She does. She has more money. More power and more guts than I do.� I sighed.
�You have more heart than she does and a stronger spirit.� I smiled and wished I could kiss him, but denied the urge and went for his cheek.
As I walked away, I wondered if that feeling in the pit of my stomach when Aaron smiled at me would always be there now. It�s been there everyday on this tour so far. I don�t know exactly when it started, but I wish I could make it stop. I got in the cab with Jordan and he took my hand in his.
�You and Aaron are close?�
�Yeah, we�re really good friends.�
�He�s just a kid.� Jordan laughed and I narrowed my eyes.
�Not really and what�s wrong with being a kid?� I asked with a grin. Jordan laughed.
�Not much if you like orange soda and videogames. I tend to like champagne and more adult games.� He said raising his eyebrows. It took me by surprise. Jordan didn�t make a lot of sexual advances toward me except for the occasional caressing of my thigh or he�d brush his hand against the side of my boob.
�Maybe I prefer orange soda and�� I trailed off. Jordan pulled me into a kiss.
�Don�t even say you like videogames more than sex.� I just laughed. How would I even know�I only played one of those games and just got prepared for the other and both of them have been played with Aaron in mind.
We got to the movie and it was the usual scenario on a date with Jordan. It was becoming routine already, not that I minded. It was hard to find something to do in a city you didn�t know much about. When I got back to the hotel, I heard my name called. I turned to see Erica coming toward me.
�I�ll see you later, okay?� I said toward Jordan. He nodded and leaned down to give me a kiss.
�We have a breakfast meeting tomorrow.�
�We do?� I asked.
�Yup. Me, you and Jane.� Erica informed me.
�Just great.�
�Look, I talked to Jane about it. She said she�s willing to keep it strictly professional if you are.� Erica explained. I nodded.
�Okay, for you I will.� I said. Erica smiled and hugged me.
�Wanna watch a movie or something?� Erica asked.
�Sure.� I smiled opening my bedroom door, surprised at what I saw. Nick and Trista were making out on her bed. Erica and I just stood there in shock. I closed the door and turned toward her, wondering her reaction.
�What?� She asked.
�I�m sorry you had to see that.�
�Oh Mac, I�m over that. I just wish they�d freaking talk to me already.� Erica sighed. I nodded.
�Listen, I�m going to go to my room. You want to watch a movie there?� She asked.
�Sure, let me go change and I�ll meet you there.� I said and she nodded before I walked into the room, this time closing the door behind me.
Trista and Nick pulled apart, somewhat blushing.
�Well, well, well�it�s payback.� I grinned.
�For?� Trista asked.
�Catching Aaron and I all those times.�
�We don�t care. We�re not trying to hide anything.� Nick said wrapping his arms around Trista. I smiled.
�Good. So�is it official?� I asked.
�Um, not yet.� Trista said.
�We�re trying things out first.� Nick said kissing her cheek. I laughed.
�If that�s trying something out, I wonder what you do when you actually make a sale.� I joked.
�That was corny.� Trista laughed. I shrugged and grabbed my pajamas before changing in the bathroom.
I headed over to Erica�s room and to my surprise Aaron, Angel, Shane and Keely were in there as well.
�What are you doing here?� I asked pleasantly surprised.
�Erica somehow convinced my Mom to let me hang out.� Aaron said.
�She doesn�t know you�re here, so don�t blow it.� Erica said to me and I rolled my eyes. Great, more sneaking around.
I sat on the floor next to Erica and we started watching the movie in silence. By the end of the night, everyone was asleep but Aaron and I. We shared a smiled and I scooted closer so we could talk. We talked about what we were doing after the tour mostly. At around three am, I decided I better get back to my room before Jane comes looking for Aaron. I hugged him good night and went off to bed, ready to let sleep take over me.
The next morning I found myself sitting with Erica in the hotel restaurant, waiting for my worst enemy.
�You okay?� Erica asked.
�Erica, how would you feel if you have to always deal with the person you hated most in this world?� I asked.
�Mac, Jane�s not that bad.�
�Not that bad? Erica, did you not see my face yesterday?� I asked.
�You shouldn�t have gotten involved with Aaron.�
�Yeah, and you shouldn�t have gotten involved with Nick. We all make mistakes.� I groaned.
�So you admit it was a mistake?� Erica asked.
�I didn�t mean that.�
�Then what did you mean?� Erica asked.
Just then Jane came over and sat down. She didn�t make eye contact with me until after we ordered.
�Okay, let�s get down to business.� She said and I looked up at her with so many different emotions. I felt exposed under her view. I felt like she looked right through me as if I were invisible.
�Mackenzie, Erica tells me she still wants you to be notified of all decisions I make for her.� Jane said and I looked somewhat surprised.
�What?� I asked looking at Erica.
�You�ve always handled my career Mac. As much as I trust Jane, I can�t just cut you out.� Erica said.
�Erica, I don�t think Jane and I will be a good team. Besides, I�m just a publicist.�
�You�re one of my best friends too. Please.� Erica begged. I looked over at Jane.
�Mackenzie, we can work together.� Jane sighed.
�Why would you want to? Why would I put myself through that kind of torture?� I asked standing up.
�Look, what happened yesterday is a personal issue. I�ll admit, you�re the last person I�d really want to manage someone with, but Erica�s right. She�s your client.� Jane argued. I sighed and sat back down. Did I really want to put myself through this?
�I need to think about this before I sign anything and make any agreements.� I said toward them. I stood up and began to walk away. I felt a hand on my shoulder and I turned around only to be face to face with Jane.
�I�m sorry for slapping you.�
�No, you�re not.� I scoffed.
�What did Nick make you apologize?� I asked.
�No, Aaron. I got an earful from him.� She said rolling her eyes. I inwardly smiled.
�I know what you think about me. You always thought it about me and this situation fit into that image perfectly.� I sighed.
�Mackenzie, I never actually thought you were a slut, but I know what I see when I see you.� Jane said.
�What�s that supposed to mean?�
�You�re still a fan trying to live out some fantasy.� I narrowed my eyes.
�Jane, that�s not it. I ended Aaron and I. I did.�
�Because he didn�t live up to the fantasy. He doesn�t love you.� Just the way she said that comment, it actually hurt.
�I didn�t ask him to love me.�
�No, but you wanted him to.�
�No, I never--�
�I know my son isn�t innocent and he may act like he�s wise beyond his years, but he�s my baby. Couldn�t you have had some fling with someone your own age?� Jane asked, tears brimming her eyes. Never have I seen this woman cry. She was too strong for that.
�Jane, he wasn�t just a fling. I know you don�t want to hear this, but it was special. I can�t explain it.� I said about to walk away.
�Mackenzie�� Jane stopped me. �As much as I would love to keep you far away from him, I know I can�t. He�d hate me for it. He�d choose you over me.� Jane said letting the tears fall. I couldn�t believe what I was hearing. I stepped closer to her.
�You�re his mother Jane. You�re family.� I sighed.
�I don�t feel like that much lately. I lost my grip on Aaron once he became close to you. He hates me.�
�No, he doesn�t. He loves you so much and it kills him that you do this to him.�
�Do what to him?� Jane asked narrowing her eyes.
�This. You never listen to what he really wants. You hardly see who he is anymore. He�s not your client. He�s your son and sometimes he just needs a mother who will understand when he needs to be normal.�
�Mackenzie, this is the last time I�m going to tell you this�don�t tell me how to raise my son.� She said before walking off. Just when I thought she was caving, she rebuilds the wall.
I got into the elevator and went to knock on Aaron�s door, but I changed my mind. I always found myself at Aaron�s door. I had to break the habit now. I walked to Jordan�s room and knocked. He opened the door a few minutes later and smiled at me.
�Good morning. This is a nice surprise.� He grinned. I smiled and kissed him sweetly. He welcomed me inside and we laid down together, just looking into each other�s eyes and stealing kisses every so often.
�What�s wrong?� He asked, finally picking up on my upset face. I wasn�t doing it purposely, but people knew my face well and when I was upset, almost anyone could tell.
�Jane Carter.�
�You two really don�t get along, huh?� He asked.
�Isn�t it obvious?� I asked. Jordan shrugged.
�It�s not a big deal. You only have to deal with her when you work with Aaron.�
�Not anymore. She�s managing Erica now, which means I have to work with her a lot more than I could even stomach.� I sighed.
�I�m sorry baby.� He said kissing my nose and then my cheeks.
�It�s just�she makes me feel��I started to say, but Jordan began kissing me.
�You think about it too much.� He said kissing me some more. I guess I did go to the wrong room to talk about this, especially since I couldn�t even say the whole story.
I spent a half an hour more with Jordan before heading to Aaron�s room. Angel opened the door and I smiled at her and she actually returned it.
�Aaron�s in the shower.�
�Oh okay.� I said about to turn around.
�You can wait here.� Angel said. I turned back around and walked inside. I sat on the bed and Angel sat next to me. We didn�t say anything. Angel got up and put on the radio to kill the silence. Some country music filled the room and I remembered we were still near the south. Aaron stepped out of the bathroom, his hair still wet. He smiled when he saw me.
�Hey.�
�Hi.� I replied.
�I�m going to get some breakfast. You guys want anything?� Angel asked.
�No thanks.� I said.
�I�ll get something later.� Aaron said. Angel nodded and made her way out of the room. Aaron sat next to me on the bed.
I fell into Aaron�s arms and began crying. I wasn�t even sure why. I just needed him to hold me as I released all the emotions running around inside me. He rubbed my back soothingly as the radio station came back from a commercial. A Tim McGraw song started playing. Aaron knew enough to just let me cry for a few minutes. The song laced through my thoughts as I clung to Aaron.
Mac was clinging onto me sobbing now. I almost felt like crying with her. I wasn�t sure why. I was so frustrated. My Mom was a total bitch. The one person I really want her to like, she can�t stand. My Dad saying Mackenzie hurt me was bugging me too. I wasn�t hurt. Disappointed that we had to stop making each other feel incredible, yeah, but I just want Mac to be happy.
On top of that, Angel is acting weird. I�m happy she�s not giving me shit about Mac anymore, but she keeps asking if I ever want to fall in love and have I ever thought I was in love. I mean fuck love! It�s not doing shit for me. It made Nick feel like crap when Trista wouldn�t go out with him. Mike is hurt over Erica still�Erica was hurt over Nick�it�s just all a bunch of bullshit hurt that no one wants to go through. Why bother when I can have what Mac and I have and just be friends? The stupid country song on the radio replaced my thoughts.
I got up and turned off the radio and sat back down next to Mac.
�What�s wrong?� I asked.
�I talked to your Mom.�
�Mackenzie, don�t let her get to you!� I yelled, startling her.
�Aaron, I can�t help it. I can�t take her hating me so much!�
�Why? She hates a lot of people!� I shouted.
�Why are you yelling at me?� Mac asked.
�I�m sorry. I�m just pissed with this whole situation.�
�That makes two of us. What did you say to your Mom anyway?� Mac asked.
�To apologize for hitting you.�
�No, Aaron�you said something way more.� Mac said.
�All I told her was that she was doing a pretty good job of making me hate her.� I sighed.
�What?� Mackenzie asked.
�What was I supposed to do Mac? She keeps threatening keeping me from seeing you and trying to tighten her grip on me, it�s ridiculous. She is making me hate her.� I said.
�She feels she�s losing you to me.� Mac groaned.
�I know and maybe it�s because I treat you with more respect. Maybe it�s because I actually like being with you.� I explained. �I used to be the one to always do whatever Mommy wanted. I never questioned her authority, but I�ve had enough of this shit Mac.� I said aggravated.
�I know Aar. Things will work out.� She said. I smiled.
�You always say that.�
�And I�m always right.� She grinned. I pulled her into a hug.
�Jordan�s a lucky guy.� I said.
�I hope he thinks so.�
�He better or I�ll kick his ass.� I said and Mac laughed. I pulled her into another hug.
�Go find your Mom.� Mackenzie said suddenly.
�Why?�
�Aaron, she needs to know you love her. As much crap as she puts us through, she�s still your mother and she feels like she�s losing her children. You�re the only one she really spends most of her time with and it�s killing her that she feels like she�s losing you�the baby.� Mac explained.
�Why do you care how she feels?� I asked amazed.
�I may not be able to stand the woman, but I�m not heartless. And I care how you feel and I know you need to make peace with her.� Mac said. I kissed her cheek and hugged her once again before going off to find my mother. I searched for about fifteen minutes before going to my room where Nick, Trista and my Mom sat laughing and talking away.
�Mom�� I said and she turned toward me. I didn�t say anything. I just hugged her and she hugged me back. �I love you.� I said and I felt her tears hit my shoulder.
�I love you too my baby.� She said squeezing me.
�I�m sorry for going behind your back and not always treating you with respect�� I said pulling back and she smiled.
�I�m sorry too Aaron. I realize that I tried to hold you too tight. You�re almost all grown up and I still can�t believe it.� Mom said.
We talked a little more and I didn�t even realize Trista and Nick had left.
�Look, I can�t tell you who you can and can�t hang out with anymore.� Mom sighed. �And it would be too hard. I mean we�re always working with Mackenzie and Spotlight and�it�s up to you.� Mom said and I was pretty shocked by what she was saying.
�Thanks Mom. That means a lot to me.� I said hugging her once more.
When I stepped out of the room, I went to Trista and Mackenzie�s room knowing Nick would be in there. I knocked and Trista answered the door.
�I can see Mac!� I said loudly. Mac grinned.
�Wow�who wore her down?� She asked.
�I did.� Nick and Trista both said.
�No, I did.� Nick argued.
�No, it was me.�
�No�� Nick went on.
�Yeah�� Trista said.
�You both did okay?� Mac laughed. Trista and Nick grinned and he wrapped his arms around her. I sat on Mac�s bed and laid next to her as we watched whatever movie was on. Of course I wound up falling asleep. I think I�ve slept in Mackenzie�s room more than mine this entire tour.
I felt hair tickling my neck and I opened my eyes. I smiled seeing Mackenzie snuggled up to me like I was her teddy bear who was protecting her from the boogieman. I began running my fingers through her hair as I felt her lips touch my neck. It was done unintentionally and I wished that it were intentional.
Mac hugged me closer to her body, causing my shirt to lift a little. She was wearing a half shirt, so our skin was touching, making me shiver. She mumbled something that I couldn�t understand as her leg grazed between mine. I wrapped my free arm around her and put my hand up her shirt, rubbing her back softly and her lips puckered against my neck. Mac responded with another mumble. There was a knock at the door, but I ignored it as I pressed my lips to Mackenzie�s. She mumbled something again, but this time I was able to understand it.
�Mmm�Jordan�� Mac said. What the fuck? She couldn�t tell the difference?
�Jordan?� I asked annoyed and Mackenzie�s eyes fluttered. The knocking at the door got louder.
�Is anyone in there?� Jordan�s voice said. My eyes widened. Oh shit.
�Jordan!� I yelled, jumping up. Mac sat up confused.
�Huh?� She asked.
�Your boyfriend�s at the door.� I said through clenched teeth before hauling ass into the bathroom.
I got up still confused at what was going on. I noticed my shirt was hiked up a little and I pulled it down. I was having a great dream where Jordan was making me feel just the way Aaron does. Maybe Aaron was having the same dream since I woke up to him saying Jordan�s name. I laughed the thought away as I opened the door.
�I was knocking for a while.� Jordan said.
�I was sleeping.�
�Oh. I heard talking though.� I looked around noticing Nick and Trista were gone.
�Yeah, that was Nick. He had to go to the bathroom really bad.� I laughed.
�I just saw Nick in the hallway.� Jordan said. Real smart there Mackenzie.
�Oh well then maybe it was Trista.� I shrugged.
�It was a guy�s voice.� Jordan said looking at me strangely.
�Hey, where�d Aaron go?� I said looking around.
�Aaron?� He asked.
�Yeah, he fell asleep here last night watching the Fast and the Furious.�
�You like that movie?� Jordan asked surprised.
�It�s cool. I just wouldn�t want to watch it all the time.�
�How come you never watch those kinds of movies with me?� Jordan pouted.
�Because you always tell me that it doesn�t matter what we see and that I pick what I want.�
�Oh. Aaron slept here last night?�
�On the floor.�
Just then, Aaron came out of the bathroom.
�Hey man.� He said to Jordan.
�Hi.�
�Mackenzie, do you want to go to breakfast with me?� Jordan asked.
�Okay, but can I take a shower and get ready first?� I asked.
�Yeah. I�ll see you in a little while.� Jordan said and he looked at Aaron expecting him to leave with him.
�Goodbye Aaron.� I said widening my eyes at him, hoping he�ll take the hint.
�Oh bye Mac.� He said and they both walked out together.
I walked out with Jordan, but I noticed the door didn�t shut all the way behind me. I acted like I was going back to my room until Jordan was out of view. I ran back into Mac�s room, closing the door behind me. Mac was standing there half naked as she tried to cover up with the towel.
�Aaron!� She yelled.
�It�s nothing I haven�t seen.� I sighed.
�This has to stop.�
�It has.�
�What was that this morning?� She asked.
�Your lips were kissing my neck!�
�I was half asleep!� Mac argued.
�Yeah, and you thought I was Jordan.� I said and regretted the jealousy that came out with it.
�Aaron, I�m sorry, but I have a boyfriend now.� She said like she should get a medal.
�Does that mean everything has to change because of that?� I asked.
�Some things, yes.�
�You mean avoid talking about love and sex at all costs again?�
�No, I mean avoid us having sex and love at all costs.� Mac sighed.
�We never had sex.� I reminded her.
�You know what I mean.�
�And we�ve never had love.� I pointed out.
�Aaron�I think we crossed a line that maybe we shouldn�t have crossed.�
�You regret it.� I said kind of annoyed.
�No. I didn�t mean that.�
�Maybe I do too.�
�What?� Mac asked.
�Maybe I regret ever kissing you. Maybe I regret touching you. All the sneaking around and getting in trouble�was it even worth any of it?� I said pissed off.
I couldn�t believe what Aaron had just said to me. I felt the tears come to my eyes, but I�m not sure if Aaron even saw them as I pushed him as hard as I could. I wanted to slap him, but I don�t think I had it in me. Aaron stumbled backwards and I went into the bathroom. Once the water was running over me, I let the tears run out too. What Aaron and I did together meant something to me. Not only were some of the things we did new experiences for me, but I felt that I made him feel like it was new for him too. It felt really good to not have any inhibitions about what I was doing with him the way I did with anyone else in almost every situation.
I guess to Aaron I was just something to play with for a little while. I�ve heard talk around saying Aaron would keep one girl around for a little while before moving on to something else. I guess I was something else from Keely and who knows who will follow after me next week. It shouldn�t hurt me because we were just having fun, but on that same note we�re best friends and he should respect me more than that. Saying it was a regret makes me feel so stupid for going along with it all. When I came out of the bathroom a little while later, Aaron was nowhere to be found and Nick and Trista were sitting on the bed.
�Hey.� They both greeted.
�Hey. See you guys later.� I said about to walk out.
�Where you going?� Trista asked.
�To breakfast with Jordan.�
�Oh is that why Aaron left here like he did?� Nick asked.
�What do you mean?� I wondered.
�He barely said two words to us.� Trista said.
�Someone seems jealous.� Nick chuckled. I rolled my eyes.
�Bye guys.� I walked out of the room and sighed. The thought of Aaron jealous made me want to smile in some demented way. I�m just afraid we won�t be able to get our friendship back to the way it used to be. We opened a door that I don�t know if we�ll be able to close.
The next couple of days, I avoided Mac. She regretted what we had done and that hurt. She�s one of the only people that I care about what she thinks. If Mac thinks it�s wrong, then maybe it was? I wasn�t just fooling around for the hell of it. I wouldn�t do that with Mac of all girls. Although if I knew she could kiss like that, I�d probably be tempted to a long time ago. With Mac, it felt like it was something we needed to do and I thought she felt the exact same way. Our bodies were drawn to each other and she made me feel things I never thought I could.
There were only a few days left on the tour and then I�d be going back to Florida for an all too brief vacation before going back into the studio for another album. I didn�t want to leave this tour on an unhappy note with Mackenzie. It was almost two am as I lay awake in the hotel room. We were in Philadelphia and I had a craving for a cheese steak. Maybe I just wanted to get away from Nick and Trista�s kissing noises and giggling.
�Couldn�t you guys have gone to your room Trista?� I asked.
�Sorry. Does this bother you Aaron?� Trista asked breaking away from Nick�s mouth. I shrugged.
�Bro, don�t worry. We�re not going to do anything, but--�
�I don�t care what you do. It�s just kind of distracting when I�m trying to sleep.�
�Why don�t you sleep in my room then?� Trista asked.
�What about Mac?�
�She didn�t mind last month if you slept on top of her.� Nick joked. I rolled my eyes.
�Yeah, and it�s a new month now.�
�It�s not like you have to sleep in her bed or anything.� Trista reasoned. I nodded.
�Where�s your key?� I asked. Trista reached into her purse on the nightstand and handed me the key.
�Thanks.� I said slipping my flip flops on and headed out of the room. I still wanted that Philly cheese steak and I wasn�t really tired. I didn�t want to go into Mac�s room to hear her breathing as she slept while I lay awake.
I began to walk aimlessly. I walked down to the lobby, knowing I was risking being noticed. My hair was sticking up in every which way and I was in sweat pants and a wife beater. I shoved my hands into my pockets as I wandered toward the front desk. About three girls came up to me, all smiling and giggly. They looked around nineteen, but were probably only fourteen. Girls were really tricky like that. I smiled back at them.
�Hi Aaron.� One of them said before giggling again.
�Hi girls. What are you guys doing out this late?� I asked.
�We were waiting for you to come out.�
�Aww, you�re losing sleep over me?� I asked.
�It�s worth it.� Another girl said.
�Can we take a picture with you?� I nodded. Before I knew it, I was being hugged and squeezed as pictures were snapping. I signed their CD covers and they tried to make more conversation with me.
�Are you having fun on the tour?�
�Oh yeah. There�s a lot of cool people on it and the fans have been great.� I grinned.
�Yeah, I saw a picture of you and some of the crew on the tour in Spotlight Magazine and Teen People.�
�Oh cool.�
�You and Mackenzie, the editor seem really close.� One girl said.
�Yeah, we�re best friends.�
�I thought I read that somewhere.� Another girl said.
�Aaron, do you have a girlfriend?� The flirtiest of the three asked.
�No, I�m a single man.� I grinned.
�Well, if you�re ever looking for one�� She said slipping her number in my hand.
�Thanks, I�ll keep you in mind.� I winked.
�We have to go though. My dad�s been beeping outside for the past fifteen minutes.� I nodded and they hugged me once more before walking out. I finished my walk over to the front desk.
�Do you guys know where I can get a Philly cheese steak at this hour?� I asked. I got a couple of laughs.
�Actually, there�s a vendor down the street. He keeps his stand open all night.� The concierge said.
�Sweet.� I grinned. They directed me which way to go and just as I was about to walk out, I heard a familiar voice.
�Excuse me, is there a place I can get something fast and cheap to eat?� Mac�s voice asked.
�You can follow him.� Someone said to her. I turned around and Mackenzie stood there in pajama pants and a zip up sweatshirt. We walked toward each other and stopped when we were only a few inches apart.
�What are you doing up?� I asked.
�I should be asking you the same thing.�
�I was hungry.�
�Me too.� She said.
�Walk with me to the Philly cheese stand?� I asked. She shrugged and began walking with me.
�I can go for a cheese steak.� I held the door open for her and she thanked me. As we walked down the street, we were silent. One of those silences where you want to say something, but you rather the other person speak first.
�I don�t want us to be mad at each other.� Mac sighed. I looked over at her and stopped walking.
�Me either.�
�I don�t regret anything.� I assured her.
�I don�t either.� Mac said and I smiled.
�So why did we argue over it?� I wondered.
�Misunderstanding I guess.� Mac shrugged.
We started walking again, much more at ease.
�So how are you and Jordan?� I asked.
�Aaron, we don�t have to talk about him.� Mac sighed.
�I know. I�m not jealous or anything.� I said. Mac nodded.
�I just want to know how things are going.�
�Good. I�m new at this relationship thing, but I think it�s going good. Do you?� She asked.
�How am I supposed to know?� I laughed.
�I don�t know.� She giggled along.
We got to the vendor and ordered two cheese steaks.
�Shit.� Aaron said.
�What?� I asked.
�I forgot my wallet.� He sighed.
I laughed. �Dork.� I said handing the man enough money to cover both of our food.
�Hey, who carries money with them to bed?� He asked.
�Well, if you plan on roaming the streets looking for food in the middle of the night, maybe you should.� I snickered.
�Lady, most people beg for money in the middle of the night so they can�t take that advice.� The vendor joked handing me my cheese steak. Once Aaron got his, we lazily walked back toward the hotel. Aaron started munching on his sandwich.
�Why aren�t you eating?� He asked. I laughed at the mess around his mouth and wiped it with my fingers.
�I don�t like to eat and walk.� I said. Aaron smiled.
�Sorry, I forgot.� He said. We walked over to a little sitting area with a table and some chairs.
�Were you going to come out here alone?� Aaron asked.
�Well, I wasn�t exactly expecting to bring a party with me at this hour.�
�You�re always traveling by yourself and late at night.� Aaron sighed.
�Aar, it was right down the street. I hardly call that a journey.� I said taking a bite into my sandwich.
�Still. It�s late and the streets of Philly are no place for a pretty girl all alone.� I smiled at him.
�What?� He asked.
�You think I�m pretty?�
�Mackenzie��
�Aaron�� I mimicked him.
�Of course I think you�re pretty.� He said.
�I think you�re beautiful. You didn�t know that?� He asked. I shook my head. �I thought I was pretty obvious about it.�
�Yeah, pretty obvious when you�re staring at my chest or me half naked.� I said uncomfortably.
�What? No, that�s not only where you�re beautiful to me.� Aaron said and I had to indulge myself.
�It�s not?�
�No. Your smile is just so contagious. And your face is so expressive. It makes me laugh.� Aaron said. Well�that�s comforting I thought.
�Gee, thanks.�
�No!� Aaron laughed. �I meant in a good way. You�re not afraid to be you and that�s part of your beauty.� Aaron said sweetly. I smiled and was about to thank him, but he went on. �And your eyes��
�They�re invisible.� I laughed.
�It�s cute that they disappear when you laugh, but when you can see them...the color is so cool. It�s like green and brown all mixed together. It�s like you can see nature in them.� Aaron said staring into them. I was kind of shocked.
�Aaron, don�t say things like that.�
�Why?� He asked.
�It makes me�never mind.� I sighed. It makes me want to kiss him.
�Mac, you wanted to know if I thought you were pretty. My answer is you�re beautiful.� I blushed.
�Thank you.�
Mackenzie was blushing deeply and I didn�t know why I had gone into such detail. I don�t think these were things you usually tell your best friend. I never told Craig that I could see the nature in his eyes�what the hell kind of line was that anyway? The weird thing was, it�s true. I noticed that Mac wasn�t even halfway through with her sandwich.
�Are you going to finish that anytime soon?� I asked.
�Huh?�
�Your sandwich. I know you�re a slow eater, but damn.� I laughed. Mac did too and took one more bite of her cheese steak before handing it to me.
�Thanks.� I woofed the sandwich down and we both stood up.
We walked back to the hotel and took the elevator up to our floor. I followed Mackenzie to her door and she kind of looked at me strangely.
�You�re room is down the hall.�
�I know, but your assistant is having um�a business meeting with my brother.� I said and Mac laughed.
�You�re sleeping in Trista�s bed.�
�I know.� I said as she opened the door. We got inside and Mac pulled off her sweat jacket and got in her bed. I made my way to Trista�s bed and kicked off my sandles before getting in and looking over at Mac.
�Good night.� She said.
�Night.� I closed my eyes and fell asleep instantly.
The day had come. The last day of the tour. We had just arrived in New York and didn�t even check into a hotel this time. I got off the bus and walked toward the venue. I felt an arm slip around my waist and I smiled.
�Good morning.� I said kissing Jordan.
�Morning.� He said grinning.
�What�s that smile for?� I asked.
�Just thinking about tonight.� I turned toward him and I didn�t know what to say to that. I had made the mistake of asking Jordan to stay with me the rest of the week while he was in New York. I think I gave him the wrong idea.
�Jordan�� I started.
�I keep picturing your body next to mine and�� Jordan began. Okay, yeah I definitely gave him the wrong idea. I quickly stopped him.
�Jordan, I need to tell you something��
�Tell me baby.� Keely, Shane, Nick, Trista and Mike all came walking toward us and I sighed.
�Later okay?� I said and Jordan nodded. Everyone kind of sighed looking up at the venue and I laughed.
�Do not make me cry anymore than I�m already going to.� I said.
We walked inside and everyone split up going about their everyday business that seems so habitual now. I went in the production office and spoke with security before heading out to check in with Trista to see how things were going on her end.
�Everything going okay?� I asked.
�Yup, perfect.� She said.
�I can�t believe it�s over.� I sighed. She put her arm around me.
�I know. It was a great tour.� She smiled.
�Yeah, it was.� I agreed. We both stepped out into the hallway and we both kind of stopped walking once we saw Nick talking to Erica. I looked over at Trista and her face seemed to have tensed.
�Tris, they�re just talking.�
�Mac, with them talking somehow seems to turn into way more.� Trista sighed. Aaron walked out of his dressing room and walked over to Nick and Erica for a couple of minutes. He then came toward us.
�Hey chicks.� He said wrapping an arm around each of us.
�What is Nick doing?� I asked.
�Talking.� Aaron said like I was crazy.
�With Erica.� Trista gritted.
�Whoa, put the fangs away. It�s nothing to worry about.� Aaron laughed. Just then, Erica wrapped her arms around Nick in a warm hug and he kissed her cheek.
�I can�t believe him.� Trista said walking toward them. Aaron and I followed behind. Nick and Erica broke from their hug and Erica was down the hall before we knew it. Trista made her way to Nick and shoved his chest lightly.
�What was that all about?� She asked. Nick narrowed his eyes.
�Erica and I talked and--� Nick began.
�Did you really?� Trista asked.
�Yeah, and I mean what�s in the past is in the past right?� Nick shrugged.
�I�m not stupid Nick.�
�What?�
�I thought we had both agreed that Erica was out of our lives.� Trista sighed.
�No, maybe you agreed. Look, my Mom�s going to be managing her now. I can�t keep giving her the cold shoulder and I don�t want to anymore.� Nick argued.
�Oh so ditch the cold shoulder for a warm lay every now and then?� Trista asked.
�Tris�� Aaron tried to cut in, but she put her hand up to silence him.
�What the fuck Trista!? You don�t trust me?� Nick asked upset.
�Nick, I don�t trust you when you�re around her.�
�Well, if you can�t trust me completely then maybe this was a bad idea.� Nick groaned.
�What was?� Trista asked.
�Us!� Nick said in a yell before storming off. Trista looked back at us.
�What just happened?� She asked.
�Um, I think he broke up with you.� I said.
�What?� Trista asked.
�He broke up with you.� Aaron said kind of annoyed and walked off toward Nick. Trista looked over at me with sad eyes.
�Did he really break up with me?�
�I think so.�
�Mac, what have I done?�
�You didn�t trust him.�
�Can you blame me?� Trista asked.
�Well, you shouldn�t have forgiven him if you couldn�t get past it.� I reasoned.
�I need to apologize.� She said and I nodded.
�Good luck.� I said patting her back before she walked off.
Keely and Shane walked over to me.
�Hey guys.�
�Hey.� Keely replied. Jordan then walked over.
�Hey baby.� He said kissing my lips softly.
�Shane, sound check.� He said punching his arm.
�I�ll see you guys later.� Shane said kissing Keely�s cheek before they both left.
�So Jordan�s staying at your place this week?� Keely asked.
�Yeah. Shane staying at your place?�
�Yup.� She said and we both smiled.
�You and Jordan�haven�t�um�� Keely said kind of uncomfortably. I laughed. Keely and I had discussed when her and Shane first�you know, but I asked her flat out. It was funny that she had trouble asking me.
�Have we had sex?� I said bluntly. Keely smiled and nodded.
�No.�
�Good. I mean, I was afraid you didn�t tell me.�
�Don�t worry, when I have sex I will alert the media. I�ll even put it in the magazine.� I joked. Keely laughed.
�So are you going to?�
�One day hopefully.� I laughed.
�Mac, I mean�this week.�
�No.�
�No?� Keely confirmed.
�No.� I said again.
�Well, um Shane kind of said�um�� Keely said and I rolled my eyes.
�Jordan said something to Shane?� I asked.
�Yeah. He made a big deal about staying at your place this week and it was about time and�yeah, he�s expecting something.� Keely sighed.
I shrugged, �I kind of figured that. I�ll have to talk to him later.� Keely nodded. Jane walked over and stood there with her arms folded. I looked toward her.
�Do you need something?� I asked.
�Can I talk to you for a minute?� She said. Great, just what I needed on the last day of the tour. I nodded and followed her into Aaron�s dressing room.
�Yes?� I asked after about five seconds of silence.
�Mackenzie, I know we�ve had our fair share of disagreements and we never really liked each other��
�Jane, let�s face it, you hate me.� I sighed.
�Hate is a very strong word Mackenzie.�
�And you strongly hate me.� I pointed out. Jane just rolled her eyes.
�I think you have that backwards.�
�I don�t hate anyone.� I assured her.
�Of course you don�t because you�re little miss goody-goody.� Jane said in a snippy tone.
�Jane, is there a reason you wanted to talk to me?� I asked annoyed.
�I realize slapping you that day I caught you and Aaron�in�� She said then sighed.
�We were just hugging that day, nothing more.� I said hoping to ease her mind. She looked somewhat relieved as she went on.
�Well, anyway I was wrong.� She said looking down and really hating the fact that she had to admit that. I think it was making her hate me more. Her words spouted forgiveness, but her eyes showed hatred.
�I�m glad you could admit that.�
�Yeah, I just wish you�d admit you were wrong.�
�For?� I asked.
�Making a move on my son.�
�Ever think your son made a move on me?� I asked.
�Mackenzie, Aaron looked at you as a mentor, not some hot chick he wanted to sleep with.�
�Jane, I�m not Aaron�s mentor. We�re five years apart. Our goals are really nothing alike. Nick�s his mentor, I�m his best friend.�
�Maybe so, but you put this idea of you two sexually involved in his head.� Jane accused.
�No, I didn�t. It just happened. I don�t know how or why, but it did. It won�t happen again.�
�You bet your ass it won�t.� Jane said.
�Good, so we�re agreed.� I said walking out.
I followed Nick to his dressing room. He was walking so fast, I could hardly keep up with him.
�Bro, wait up.� I said and he stepped inside the room and I walked in and closed the door behind me. Nick threw a water bottle across the room and plopped down in a chair before running his hands through his hair, obviously pissed off.
�Dude, Trista just got the wrong--�
�She doesn�t trust me Aaron.� He groaned.
�Can you blame her?� I asked.
�You�re taking her side? Fuck you then man.� Nick spat at me.
�Shut up Nick. I�m not taking sides. You know you�d react the same way if some guy had been all up on Trista�s shit and she had slept with him when you two were supposed to be hooking up.� I pointed out.
�Erica and I were making up.�
�Yeah, you remember the last time you two made up?�
�Whatever. She should trust me.�
�Yeah, she should. You�re going to just give up though?�
�What do you mean?� Nick asked.
�You tried so hard�you kissed Trista�s ass�and finally, you two have something. Something you wanted badly and you�re going to throw it away over some stupid misunderstanding?� I gritted. This shit was really pissing me off. I�m supposed to be the kid, but yet no one around me knows how to handle a relationship. I don�t know if I could do better and I�m not willing to try right now.
�I don�t want to give up, but I�m starting to think Trista will never feel the way I feel about her.� Nick sighed. There was a knock at the door. I opened it and Trista stood there, looking completely broken up. Nick jumped up and they both stared at each other.
�Nick, I�m sorry.�
�Me too.�
�I know I shouldn�t have jumped to conclusions.�
�I can understand why you did.� Nick said taking her hand.
�I just saw you two together and freaked.� Trista explained and Nick nodded.
�I hate you for making me jealous�and for making me fall.� Trista said and I had to smile.
�When did I make you fall? I didn�t mean to--� Nick began. What a dumb ass!
�Nick, I didn�t mean literally.� Trista laughed looking into his eyes.
�Ohh�wow�Trista, I fell a long time go. I didn�t even know if you�d ever feel the way I did.�
�How do you feel Nick?� Trista asked.
�I love you.� Nick said like one of those cheesy dudes in the movies. I shook my head ashamed to be his brother, but inwardly smiled knowing he found exactly what he wanted. True love.
�I love you too.� Trista said and Nick smiled before taking her in his arms and kissing her. They were so into it, that I decided it was best to get the hell out of there. I squeezed by them and walked into the hallway.
Shane and Jordan were walking toward me and I could hear them talking.
�So you still think you�re getting some tonight?� Shane asked.
�Yeah, why wouldn�t I be? The girl invited me to stay at her place for a week. Come on man.� Jordan laughed. My jaw clenched and they both looked over at me.
�Hey Aaron.� Shane said, eyeing Jordan then me.
�Hey, what�s up?� Jordan nodded toward me.
�I�ll be in a bit.� Shane said toward Jordan. He walked away and Shane looked at me.
�Jordan doesn�t know about you and Mac, does he?�
�You crazy dude? We were supposed to be a secret. I don�t think Mac would really want to tell her boyfriend she fooled around with me.� I sighed.
�But you two are still--�
�No, no. Mac wouldn�t do that to Jordan.�
�Oh, are you okay about all this?� Shane asked.
�I�m fine. Mac and I were just killing time I guess.� I laughed it off. Shane laughed too and slapped my back.
�I�ll catch you later.� He said walking away.
I rushed into the production office trying to find Mac. I know it was none of my business, but did she really plan on giving herself to Jordan tonight? Mac was looking over some paperwork and didn�t notice me come in. I closed the door and locked it. She looked up.
�Hey, what are you doing?� She asked.
�I need to talk to you.� I said pulling up a seat next to her.
�Are you sure about this?� I asked. Mac looked at me strangely.
�Sure about what?� She asked.
�Jordan sleeping with you.�
�We�re just going to be sleeping.� She shrugged, but seemed annoyed by the question.
�You are?� I asked.
�Yes. God Aaron, this really isn�t any of your business. How the hell did you even know anyway?� She asked.
�I know it�s not my business and I�m sorry for asking, but I overheard Jordan talking. He seems to think something�s going to happen.�
She sighed, �I figured he did. I haven�t even told him that I�m a virgin yet.�
�Well, then I guess now�s as good a time as any.� I said.
�Yeah, but I don�t know. Most girls my age are not virgins. I don�t know how he�ll deal with that.� Mac sighed. I put my hand on her knee.
�If he�s not cool with it, then you don�t need him.� I said and she nodded.
�Listen, I have to do sound check, but do me a favor and please be careful tonight. I don�t want you to do anything you don�t want to do.� I said looking into her eyes. Mackenzie smiled and nodded. I stood up and was about to walk away.
�Hey Aaron?�
�Yeah?�
�Where�s my present that you�d said you got for me three months ago?� She asked. I laughed.
�Damn, you remembered.�
�You�ll get it tonight.� I winked. She looked at me funny.
�Mac, I�m giving it to you here.� I said shaking my head.
�What?� She asked.
�Girl, get your head out of the gutter. Nick�s a bad influence on you.� I joked.
�Nick? Uh, you�re the bad influence on me.� She smirked.
�And you liked my influence.� I said wiggling my eyebrows. She shook her head at me before turning back to her paper work.
I smiled and walked out before going to do sound check. I kept thinking about Mac and Jordan in bed together and it disgusted me. I don�t know why. Maybe Jordan just isn�t the right guy for Mackenzie. Okay, maybe I was a little jealous of the fact that he�ll be in bed with her and I won�t�even if they are just sleeping. Only if Mac was a guy then maybe I could talk to my best friend without picturing her naked.
After my sound check was done, I sat down next to Trista as Nick got on the stage. She flashed me the biggest smile and I shook my head.
�Does loving someone really feel that good?� I asked.
�When that person loves you back, it�s�amazing.� Trista said looking over at Nick, who looked down at her like he was mentally kissing her. I sighed. Maybe love was worth something after all.
�Mom?� I said going into my dressing room, but Mike was sitting there.
�She went to go check into the hotel.� I nodded. As much as I wanted to head right home, I was glad we�d be spending the night in a hotel. I knew after the show, I�d be too wired to go right on a plane. Plus, the house would be empty until tomorrow afternoon. Dad took Leslie to visit her friend in California for the week and wouldn�t be back until tomorrow.
�So you get some time off once we get back home. Are you happy?� I asked.
�Yeah, I�ll miss the tour though.� Mike shrugged.
�Why? You were pissed off for most of it.�
�I know, but you know, Nick will be going back in the studio with the guys, so he�ll be busy. You�ll be at home and I�ll miss the crew and stuff.� Mike sighed.
�And Erica?� I asked.
�Erica is just a friend.�
�Is she even that anymore Mike?�
�Aaron, don�t start.�
�Really, you know she could use your friendship.�
�Aaron, she led me on.�
�Whatever dude. You knew she was hung up on Nick. Now that she�s over him, you�re just going to ditch her?�
�I didn�t ditch her.� Mike gritted.
�Yeah, you did.� I said and Angel came into the room.
�Aaron, Trista said your signing is about to start.� She said. I nodded and followed her out of the dressing room.
After the signing was over, I went into catering to grab a quick bite to eat and I was disgusted at the sight I saw. Mackenzie and Jordan were making out and I groaned. I hope she talked to him. That wasn�t exactly hinting around that they weren�t going to have sex. I quickly walked out before they noticed me. After I ate, I started to get ready for the show. I hope Mac likes her present tonight. I was actually kind of nervous about giving it to her.
I walked over to Trista and her face was still beaming. She had explained what happened between her and Nick and I couldn�t be happier for them.
�You wanna get something to eat with me?� She asked.
�I just ate with Jordan.�
�Did you tell him?� She asked.
�No.� I sighed.
�Mackenzie!�
�I know, I know. I just don�t want to hurt his feelings.�
�Yeah, well the longer you wait to tell him, the more it will hurt him.�
�I know. So show time in half an hour.� I sighed.
�I know. Don�t cry yet, okay?� She asked with a smile. I laughed and nodded.
The show started and it was going amazing as usual. The crowd was hyped and I knew they would be. New York crowds usually were. Erica had her best performance yet. The audience was really responding to her and I was proud. Nick�s performance held an extra smile as he stole glances at Trista and every love song he sang seemed to hold so much more meaning, like the lyrics were written about their relationship even though we knew they weren�t.
We were all huddled to the side of the stage, watching on intently like we haven�t seen this concert over twenty times already. It felt so special. Even Jane seemed to be in a sentimental state of mind. After Nick got off the stage, Aaron followed and I realized it was just about over. Aaron was the last performer. I sighed as a dance song off of Aaron�s last album flowed through the arena. I bopped along, almost able to do the dance with him. He always thought I was a dork for knowing his dance routines, but he thought I was even dorkier for knowing just about every other artist�s dance routines as well. Toward the end of Aaron�s set, he was talking to the crowd like he usually does, but he started to say something different.
�Before I get to the last song, I have to do something. You guys all know how much I love Spotlight Magazine, right?� He asked and the crowd cheered.
�They�re such a cool group of people and we always party when we hang out. I want to thank them for putting this tour together. It was an experience I�ll never forget.� Aaron said and Trista nudged me.
�He meant professionally.� I said glaring at her.
�Sure he did.� She laughed.
�Now, I have a gift for the person who made this all possible. She�s amazing. She really knows how to make her dreams come true. If you guys look up to me because of that reason, then you really should look up to her. She�s the editor of Spotlight Magazine and honestly, she�s my best friend.� Aaron said and I was taken back.
Jane glared at me and everyone else turned toward me and smiled.
�You think we can get her on the stage?� Aaron asked. The crowd cheered.
�Mackenzie Wiley, where are you?� Aaron said in a funny voice looking over toward me. I smiled at him and shook my head.
�Yes.� He said nodding. Suddenly, I felt hoisted in the air and placed on the stage. I looked behind me and saw Mike smile at me. I laughed and looked back toward Aaron as he took my hand and led me to the middle of the stage.
Mackenzie looked almost unsure of what to expect as I pulled her to the middle of the stage.
�Everyone say hi to Mac.� I said and the crowd all screamed and shouted out hellos.
�Would you like to say anything to the Spotlight fans?� I grinned pointing the microphone at Mac.
�Hey guys! I just want to thank you all for coming out and seeing the show! We had a great tour.� Mac said. The crowd cheered and I smiled at her. She was a natural celebrity.
�Well, when we started this tour I told Mackenzie I had a present for her, but she couldn�t have it for three months. So, now I would like to give it to her.� I said and I left Mac�s side to retrieve the award I had gotten. It was a really cool looking star trophy that was engraved personally for Mac. I walked back over to her with the trophy and her eyes lit up.
�On behalf of all your readers, all us performers and your staff, I�d like to present to Mackenzie Wiley this Best Editor of All Time award!� I said handing it to her as tears filled her eyes. I smiled at her as she took the award and observed it for a few seconds before wrapping her arms around me and hugging me causing me to almost drop the microphone. I rubbed her back softly and we parted. The crowd was clapping and snapping pictures.
�Thank you.� Mackenzie whispered and I kissed her cheek before leading her back over to the side of the stage. Mike helped her down and I went back to finish up the show.
After the show was over, I got off the stage and was met in hugs from Angel, my Mom, and Nick. Then Trista and Keely. A few more acts came over to slap my hand or hug me before I finally got to Mac. She was leaning against the wall hugging her award tightly. I smiled and I wrapped my arms around her.
�You made my lifetime.� She said softly, still sniffling with tears.
�Same here.� I smiled. We just stood there, half in each other�s arms looking at each other for a few minutes before Jordan came over.
Jordan came over and took my hand, practically pulling me away from Aaron.
�Ready?� He asked.
�I told you I have to take care of some things first. You go check the guys in at their hotel and I�ll meet you at my apartment.� I said and Jordan nodded reluctantly before kissing me fiercely, right in front of Aaron�s face. He walked off and I looked over at Aaron who did not look pleased at all.
�I don�t like him Mackenzie.� Aaron sighed.
�Why?� I asked.
�I just don�t. He�s not your type.�
�And who is my type?� I asked.
�I don�t know. Not him.� Aaron said softly not looking in my eyes.
�Jealousy never did anyone any good.� I said jokingly. Aaron looked up at me.
�I can�t help being jealous.� Aaron said. Whoa, he really was jealous?
�Aaron��
�Any guy would be lucky to know you, let alone do the things that he�ll do with you.�
�We�re not doing those things.� I said.
�No, but you will eventually.�
�Aaron, what do you want from me?� I asked.
�I don�t know anymore Mac. I�I just want to be with you. I want to make you feel good and safe. I don�t want you feeling uncomfortable about your body or about sex. I want to be the one who gets you first.�
�Aaron, I�m not some prize that you can claim. Maybe whoever gets me first should love me first. How about that?� I asked somewhat frustrated.
I walked away and started saying goodbye to various acts and wrapping up any last minute business before heading back to my apartment. I didn�t even say goodbye to Aaron. Nick, Trista and I got back to the apartment.
�Good night guys.� I said to them over my shoulder before heading into my bedroom.
�Aar, you coming out with me?� Mike asked as I brought my bag onto the bus.
�Where are you going?�
�Club Abyss. It�s in Jersey.�
�Okay, I�ll chill with you for a little while.� I shrugged. Mac walked by and she didn�t even look over at me. I couldn�t believe I admitted I was jealous. I don�t know what the hell I�m doing anymore. Thank God Mike asked to hang out or else I might just go crazy in my hotel room thinking of Mackenzie�and Jordan all over her. Mike went back in my dressing room to get something and Nick passed by and I stopped him.
�Hey, Mike and I are going out. You wanna come?� I asked.
�Thanks for the offer, but I�m going to spend the night with Trista.� He smiled.
�Alright, I�ll see you tomorrow morning before I leave then?� I asked. Nick nodded and slapped my hand before walking off. Erica walked by and I smiled at her.
�So I guess we�ll be seeing a lot more of each other.� I said.
�Yeah, I guess we will.� She smiled.
�And you and Mike will get to see more of each other too.�
�Aaron, don�t push it. I lost a great friend because I was too busy trying to get your brother and the last thing I need is you still trying to mend something that can�t be put back together.� Erica sighed. Mike came out of the dressing room and he and Erica shared a look.
�Wanna come out with us tonight?� He asked.
�No, I think I�m just going to go home. I miss my own bed and all.� Erica said. Mike nodded.
�I�ll see you guys soon.� She said waving before walking off. Mike sighed.
�Come on, let�s go.� He said. I nodded and we walked off toward the bus. We put our stuff on and walked off coming face to face with Mom and Angel.
�Who called for a car?� Mom asked.
�I did.� Mike said.
�You guys going out?� Angel asked.
�Wanna come?� I asked, even though I didn�t really like to go clubbing with my sister. Not only did I feel the need to watch out for her, but also I got disgusted looks and lectures from her on every girl I hit on.
�No thanks. I wanna get some shopping in early tomorrow morning, so I need my sleep.� Angel smiled. My sister was definitely a shop-a-holic. She was like five girls and two flamboyant gay guys put together and bought enough clothes to make three outfits for that many people on each shopping spree.
�Aaron, don�t stay out too late and be careful.� Mom warned. I nodded and kissed her cheek. She didn�t even ask where I was going. I think Trista and Nick put her in a good mood. She loved Trista and I think is already mentally planning a wedding in her mind.
Mike and I got to the club and it was pretty packed as most New York and New Jersey clubs were. I scoped the place out. We were approached by two girls who obviously knew who I was. You could tell in their eyes and the almost intimidation in their voice as they asked us to dance. Mike and I followed them onto the dance floor. Mike�s dance partner looked as if she was shooting daggers at her friend with her eyes. I love it when girls fought over me. Mike on the other hand hated it and soon left, finding someone who actually wanted to dance with him for the right reasons.
The girl Mike had been dancing with came up behind me and both girls started grinding into me. By the end of the dance, I was turned on beyond belief and I really felt like curing my desire. I leaned into the girl in front of me and kissed her softly. Her hands ran up the front of my shirt and I tried to feel something from the kiss, but honestly I felt like I was kissing a wall with weird tasting lip gloss smeared all over it. Suddenly, the other girl broke us apart.
�Jessica, you promised you wouldn�t touch him!� The other girl yelled.
�Kim, it�s Aaron freakin� Carter! If he wants to kiss me, I�m kissing him back.� She yelled back.
Okay, these girls were not exactly my scene. Groupies I could deal with. Groupies who couldn�t share and couldn�t even kiss were not worth it. I kind of laughed under my breath as the girls fought. They�d throw away a friendship over some guy they didn�t know just because he was famous. It sickened me. It made me want to pull my hair out that people can be so crazy and at times it didn�t flatter me at all. I quietly slipped off the dance floor and found a table. An older girl was sitting a few feet away in the same booth as me and she glanced my way. I smiled and before I knew it, we were sliding closer and closer to each other until we were right next to each other.
�What�s your name?� I asked.
�Monica.� She said sticking her hand out. �Yours?� She asked. I smiled. She really didn�t seem to know who I was. Good.
�Aaron.� I said shaking her hand.
�Nice to meet you Aaron. You want to dance?� She asked. I nodded and we got on the dance floor. After a little while, Mike made his way over to me.
�Let�s get out of here.�
�Okay.� I said and I looked at Monica.
�It was nice meeting you. Thanks for the dance.� I said and she pulled me toward her, kissing me fully.
�It was my pleasure.� She grinned. I just nodded and walked out before she could offer her number. These girls were good for one thing and as much as I only want that one thing right now, I didn�t want it with a complete stranger.
Mike and I got to the hotel and I sleepily got changed for bed before lying down over the blankets in the summer heat of July. After a little while of discomfort, I pulled my shirt off and my pajama pants, leaving me in my boxers. A while later, I heard Mike getting dressed and he left the room. Who knew where he was going. I got up and made sure the air conditioner was on. It was but seemed to be broken. I sighed and opened the window since I was breaking into a sweat now.
I laid in bed, kind of hot so I threw the blanket off me. I heard a knock at the door and was about to get up, but heard Trista greet Jordan, so I decided to lie back down. I nervously laid there, almost paralyzed as Jordan�s footsteps came closer. There was a knock on my bedroom door and I mustered up a soft �come in�. Jordan stepped inside and smiled at me.
�Hi.� He said taking off his over shirt.
�Hi.� I said suddenly feeling like a little girl.
Jordan took off his tank top as I just watched him before he fiddled with his belt and before I knew it his pants were at his ankles. I glanced over his body, trying not to show that I liked what I saw. I didn�t want to lead Jordan on anymore than I already have.
He slid into bed next to me before kissing me softly. I smiled and rested my head on his bare chest. Jordan just held me. Maybe he knew what I was thinking already and returned to the gentleman he usually is.
Jordan�s hands slid up the front of my shirt and rested on my breasts as he began kissing me. His kisses were no longer sweet and gentle, but lustful and needy. I slowly started to pull back, but he started to lift my shirt, trying to get it over my head.
�Jordan�� I began, fighting my shirt back down. He kept trying to kiss me to muffle what I was saying and it scared me a little.
�Jordan�� I said again.
�Mackie, just kiss me. I want to feel you.� He whispered against my ear.
�Jordan, no.� I said forcefully shoving him away a little. He looked hurt.
�No? Your boyfriend can�t touch you? He can�t kiss you?� Jordan asked aggravated.
�It�s not that. We can kiss all you want. I just know where this is leading and--�
�And what Mac? You know me. We�ve been seeing each other for over a month now.�
�We�ve only been dating seriously for a little over two weeks.� I sighed.
�We�re not kids anymore. We don�t have to be completely in love to sleep with each other. It�s not like it�s our first time.� Jordan snickered. I stared at him. I couldn�t tell him. I don�t know why, but I couldn�t.
�I�m just not ready to move to that stage with you yet.�
�Mackie, baby�� I hated when he called me Mackie. Jordan put his hand on my inner thigh and started to trail upward.
�Let me make you feel good.� He said and I pulled his hand away.
�Jordan, can�t you just hold me?�
�Mac, give me something to work with.� He groaned. I took his hands and placed them up my shirt.
�Happy?� I asked. He smiled and lifted my shirt over my head. I sighed. I just wasn�t enjoying this. After a little while, Jordan started to pull at my pajama shorts and I got really annoyed this time. I yanked his hands away and put on my shirt.
�Why are you holding back from me?� Jordan asked.
�I�m not. Jordan, I�m sorry if I�m not like other girls and don�t fall into your sweet smile all the time. I have a right to not want to do certain things.� I huffed.
�You let him touch you, don�t you?�
�What? Who?�
�Aaron.� Jordan said, his face turning to stone. I wondered if someone told him.
�No, where did you get a crazy idea like that?�
�He�s always around you. He looks at you like he�s in love and you almost look at him the same way.� Jordan gritted.
�You�re being ridiculous. Aaron�s just a kid.� I said, not really meaning those words at all. Aaron was hardly a kid.
�Maybe you like them young. You won�t give me head, so I figure you must be giving it to someone.� Jordan said shocking me to no end.
I never slapped anyone before. I�ve wanted to so many times and was really close to slapping Jane, but right then I raised my hand and met Jordan�s face with it hard.
�Don�t ever talk to me again.� I said grabbing my shoes and slipping some pants on. Jordan took my arm.
�Mac, I�m so--�
�We�re over.� I said walking out of the room and I really didn�t know why I was leaving the apartment, since it was mine, but I couldn�t bear to lie there and cry all alone.
I walked down the street and heard thunder boom as I jumped. Tears fell down my face and soon rain was mixing with my tears. Damn summer showers. I looked down at my soaked tank top and cursed myself for not wearing anything over it. I hopped on the subway, knowing I would probably get an earful of traveling alone lectures from whomever I decided to run to. I found myself on the six train and didn�t know why I was even going there. Was I looking for more pain?
I crossed my arms around my soaked chest as I rode the train, hoping the bums and creepy people would keep away from me tonight. Luckily, it was a quiet night and not too many people were in my train car. I got out of the subway and was relieved the rain had stopped. I ran all the way to the familiar hotel. The concierge was sleeping away, so I just ran past him and into the elevator. I made it up to the room number I overheard Jane say earlier. I stood there for a few seconds before deciding to knock. I tried to wipe the tears from my eyes before Aaron opened the door, but it was no use. It was obvious. Aaron stood there completely sweaty with lipstick on his mouth. I closed my eyes and re-opened them.
�Mackenzie�� He said looking at me wide-eyed.
�I came at a bad time, I�ll let you--�
�No, what�s wrong?� Aaron asked.
�Aaron, you�re with someone. I don�t--�
�Mac, what are you talking about? I�m alone.� He said confused.
�It�s a nice shade of lipstick you�re wearing.� I said wiping his lips.
�Oh, I went to a club with Mike--� He began. I put my hand up.
�You don�t owe me an explanation.� I sighed.
�Come in.� I said to Mac since she was still standing in the hallway with her arms wrapped around herself. Her clothes were soaked to her skin. She was shivering and I was afraid she�d get sick. I finally took her hand and pulled her into the room before closing the door.
�You should change.� I said.
�Sorry, I didn�t bring a change of clothes.� Mac said sarcastically. I went to my suitcase and pulled out a tank top and a pair of boxers.
�Wear these.� I said handing them to her. When Mac came out of the bathroom, I had to laugh. She looked like a little girl the way my tank top hung off her. I stood up and walked toward her.
�I�m all sweaty.�
�I see that.� She laughed.
�I�m going to take a shower.� I said and she nodded. I took her hand and pulled her into the bathroom with me.
�What do you think you�re doing?� Mac asked.
�Sit on the toilet and keep me company.� I said and Mac laughed before doing so. I got in the shower and threw my boxers at Mac as I covered up with the curtain. She laughed and shook her head. I started the cold water and screeched a little as it hit my back. Mackenzie laughed.
�You scream like a girl.�
�Don�t make me throw soap at you.� I warned.
�So�talk.� I said starting to lather up.
�I don�t know why I came here.� Mac said and I peeked my head out.
�I don�t know either, but I�m happy you did.� I grinned. She let a small smile escape her lips and I continued washing up.
�Did you tell Jordan?� I asked.
�Not exactly.� She sighed.
�I take it things didn�t go well?� I asked shutting the water off.
�Not well at all.� She said and I saw a hand stick in the shower holding a towel.
�Thanks.�
�He didn�t try to force you, did he?� I asked kind of protectively.
�Not really.� Mac sighed and my eyes widened.
�Where is he? I�ll go--� I said wrapping the towel around my waist as I stepped out of the shower.
�Slow down killer. He just didn�t get that I didn�t want to move on. He was annoyed, that�s all.� Mac said looking down. I pulled her out of the bathroom with me and sat her on the bed.
�So why did you come to my doorstep crying then?� I asked.
�I broke up with him.�
�You did?� I asked, trying not to sound happy, but I couldn�t help it.
�Gee, thanks Aaron for your sympathy.� Mac said shaking her head.
�I�m sorry. So you broke up with him because he didn�t understand about the sex thing?� I wondered.
�No, I broke up with him because he was being rude.� Mac stated.
�He asked about me and you. Did anyone tell him?� She asked.
�I don�t think so. Shane�s the closest person to him and he didn�t tell him.� I assured her.
�Well, then we�re just very transparent.� She said and I laughed.
�So what did he say about us?� I asked.
�He said he wasn�t getting head from me because someone else was.� Mac said looking down, somewhat embarrassed. I clenched my fists and my teeth at the same time.
�Where the fuck does he get off saying that shit to you?� I yelled as a few tears squeezed out of Mac�s eyes.
�I don�t know, but it made me feel dirty and the fact that he�d even think to say something like that to me�� She said and I pulled her into my arms.
�Don�t feel dirty. Just because you did stuff with me does not mean you have to do it with everyone. You and I were not meaningless.� I said sincerely. Mac smiled.
�No, we weren�t.� Mac agreed.
�So things are really over between you two?� I asked. Mac nodded and I couldn�t help but to smile. Mac shoved my arm and I pulled her into my arms again, squeezing her tight.
�Aaron�I should go.� She whispered, but made no attempt to move.
�It�s late.�
�I know, but I should go.�
�How did you get here?� I asked.
�Subway.�
�What? Mackenzie, you got on the subway at this hour wearing that soaked tank top?� I asked pulling away from her.
�I was upset. I needed to go somewhere.�
�Well, now that you�re here, you�re not going back. Not dressed like this either.� I laughed. Mac pinched my nipple and I whimpered before grabbing to pinch one of hers.
�Hey!� She said swatting my hand away.
�You did it to me!�
�You�re a guy.�
�So we both have nipples. It�s not fair that girls can touch ours, but it�s so wrong for us to touch theirs.� I pouted. Mac laughed at me. I got up and opened the balcony door wider so some air could circulate although the rain did cool things down a bit.
�Are you ever going to get dressed?� Mac asked and I looked down, forgetting I was still in a towel.
�Do you want me to?� Mac blushed and I smiled before grabbing a pair of boxers and slipping them on underneath my towel.
I laid back in Aaron�s bed as he walked toward me. He slid in next to me and I wrapped my arms around him before resting my head on his chest. He began to run his hands through my hair.
�I�m sorry.� Aaron sighed.
�About?� I asked.
�Earlier. You�re not some prize to me Mac.�
�I know. I was just aggravated.� I sighed.
�I just wish I could have fallen in love with you.� I joked. Aaron stopped stroking my hair.
�Are you saying you fell in love with Jordan?� He asked.
�I was getting there.� I sighed.
�If I could fall in love with you Mac, I�d never let you go.� Aaron said and I smiled.
�Too bad you�re too much of a player and I�m looking for something serious.� I said. Aaron laughed.
�Plus, it would never work.� I said.
�Yeah, we�re like brother and sister.� Aaron said.
�No, then we�d be incestuous.� I said disgusted.
�Okay, if we didn�t do that stuff, then yeah we would be.� Aaron laughed. I laughed too and looked up at him and he stared into my eyes.
�Kiss me.� I asked.
�Anything you want.� Aaron said leaning in and meeting my lips. I slowly deepened the kiss, but Aaron pulled back a few seconds later.
�Good night Mac.� He said turning off the light.
�Night Aaron.� I said laying my head back onto his chest.
The next morning, I woke up still wrapped comfortably in Aaron�s arms. I thought about what happened the night before with Jordan. I thought he�d be my first relationship to actually last. When Aaron asked if I had fallen in love with Jordan, I had said I was on my way. At least I thought I was. Do you really know if you�re on your way to love before you�re there? I looked at the time and groaned. It was only six am. I rubbed my cheek against Aaron�s chest and traced my finger around his belly button, knowing he was extremely ticklish there. A smile played on his lips as he wiggled away.
�What time is your flight?� I whispered.
�Twelve something.� He murmured, his eyes still closed.
�I still can�t believe it�s over.� I sighed.
�I know. I�m going to miss it.� Aaron said opening his eyes and looking down at me. �I�m going to miss you.� He said. I smiled.
�I�ll miss you too.� I said sitting up.
�Stay.� Aaron whined.
�I�ll be right back.� I said going into the bathroom. I peed and brushed my teeth with my finger before walking back out. I crawled onto the bed and straddled Aaron, taking him by surprise.
�What are you doing?� He grinned, placing his hands on my hips.
�Getting some quality time in before you leave.� I said leaning down and kissing his chest and moving up to his neck. Aaron moaned and guided my hips into his pelvis.
�Why are you teasing yourself?� I laughed.
�I was hoping you�d end that teasing for me.� Aaron said sitting up and kissing me before removing my shirt.
�Not until December seventh.� I smirked. Aaron sighed.
�Why does my birthday have to be at the end of the year?� I giggled and kissed him again before he flipped me over so he was lying on top of me.
�I love�doing this with you.� Aaron said closing his eyes as I ran my nails down his back.
�I love doing this with you too.� I smiled before he kissed me.
After we were finished, I took a shower and my clothes from last night were still a little wet. I stepped out of the bathroom in my towel.
�They�re still wet.� I pouted.
�Here take my t-shirt and a pair of sweat pants.� Aaron said handing them to me.
�I�ll send them over to you tomorrow.� I assured him.
�Don�t worry about it. Keep it as a souvenir.� Aaron winked. I laughed and pushed him playfully.
I got in the shower, happy that Mackenzie could get past this Jordan crap and maybe when we saw each other we could still have our fooling around time. I heard voices outside of the bathroom and I shyly peeked my head out seeing Mike, Erica and Mac talking.
�Ahem.� I cleared my throat. They all looked at me.
�I didn�t bring clothes in here with me.� I said. Mac rolled her eyes and grabbed a pair of basketball shorts, boxers and a t-shirt for me.
�Thanks.� I said before taking the clothes from her and closing the door. After I was dressed and I fixed my hair a little, I came out and looked at Mike and Erica curiously.
�What�s up?� I asked. Everyone just shrugged.
�Where were you last night?� I asked Mike. He smiled and looked over at Erica.
�Getting a friend back.�
�Good.� I said hitting his back.
�So what did you guys do last night?� Erica asked, with a curious smirk.
�Talked.� Mac said annoyed with the question.
�And you somehow lost your clothes along the way?� Erica motioned to Mac�s outfit.
�My clothes got wet in the rain shower late last night.� Mac explained, but Erica still glared at her.
�Erica, just leave it alone please.� Mac sighed.
�I�m sorry, but you have a boyfriend Mac.�
�Not anymore.� Mackenzie said going into the bathroom and closing the door. Erica and Mike both looked over at me.
�What happened between her and Jordan?� Erica asked.
�He�s an ass.� I shrugged.
�Thanks Aaron, that was informative.� Mike said sarcastically. I just grinned.
There was a knock at the door and Mike answered it. Nick and Trista stood there and it was so obvious they slept together. Between Nick�s �I just got laid� grin and Trista�s �Let me try to act like nothing happened last night� look, the only thing left to do was spell it out. I just laughed at them as Mac came out of the bathroom.
�What did I miss?� She asked and took one look at the happy couple and smiled.
�Oh, hi guys.� Mac said, but from her smile I could tell she was thinking the same thing I was.
�What?� Trista and Nick asked.
�Nothing.� I said and they both looked over at Mac.
�Mac, what are you doing here anyway?� Trista asked.
�And why are you in Aaron�s clothes?� Nick added to her question. No one missed anything around here.
�I slept here and I got rained on last night, so I borrowed Aaron�s clothes.� Mac shrugged.
�What happened with Jordan last night?� Trista asked.
�I�ll tell you later.� Mac said looking down.
�You�ll tell us now.� Erica said taking Mac�s hand and pulling her toward the hallway. Trista followed.
Once the door closed, Mike and I looked at Nick.
�What?� He asked.
�Have a good night?� Mike smirked.
�Dude, I am not going to brag about last night.� Nick sighed.
�Why not?� I asked kind of shocked.
�Some things are personal.� Nick laughed.
�That never stopped you before.� Mike pointed out.
�And Trista never happened to me before either.� Nick grinned.
�It was bad?� I asked. Nick rolled his eyes and smacked me�hard.
�Owww��
�No, not at freaking all! It was the most amazing thing. It wasn�t just sex with her. It was like magic.� Nick said. Mike and I looked at each other and busted up laughing. What a dweeb!
�Yeah, laugh now assholes�you�ll know what I mean when you find the right person.�
�Man, if I start talking like you I don�t know if I want to find the right person.� I joked.
�Maybe because you think you already have.� Mike smirked.
�Oh you mean the girls from last night? Which one was right for me? Ditzy or Ditzier or was it the suction cup who almost ripped my lips off when she kissed me?� I asked.
�Nice girls you met last night Aaron.� Nick said sounding a little scared.
�That�s why I came back alone.�
�You came back alone to be with Mac, who are you kidding?� Mike said shaking his head.
�I didn�t know Mac was coming over, so that wasn�t the reason.�
�Whatever man. I still say she�s too old for you to get serious with.� Mike sighed.
�Who the fuck said I was getting serious with her?� I yelled.
�Aaron, calm down. Let�s just drop it.� Nick said, obviously just wanting to stop an argument. We decided to play videogames instead.
�So what happened between you and Erica last night?� I asked.
�You slept at Erica�s?� Nick asked wide-eyed as Mike paused the game.
�Dude!� I yelled.
�We can talk about me and Erica, but we can�t talk about Aaron and Mac?� Mike asked.
�There is no Aaron and Mac.� I said with a sigh.
�Because Aaron�s too sensitive when it comes to her.� Nick said answering Mike�s question with a half smile.
�I am not.�
�Are too.� Nick insisted.
�Am not.�
�Are too.�
�Not.� I gritted.
�Are too.�
�Am not.�
�Are too.�
We didn�t notice that Erica, Mac and Trista had walked in and were staring at us.
�You guys are worse than Mac and Trista.� Erica laughed.
�Huh?� I wondered.
�That�s our game when we argue.� Trista laughed. Mac laid down on the bed behind us.
�So what are guys arguing about?� Mac asked.
�Videogames.�
�Sports.� Nick and I said at the same time.
�It�s a sport videogame.� Mike shrugged. Mac looked at the TV.
�You�re playing Vice City.�
�Shooting�s a sport.� Nick shrugged. We all just laughed and Trista patted his head.
�Sure it is sweetie.�
We continued to play videogames as the girls talked amongst themselves and threw comments at us every once in a while. I noticed something different. Trista and Erica were actually talking. Maybe they finally made up. When it was Nick�s turn to play Mike, I pulled myself onto the bed and laid back in Mac�s lap.
�Can I help you?� She asked. I smiled and nodded. I noticed tears forming in her eyes.
�What�s wrong?� I whispered.
�Nothing.� She sighed and looked back toward the TV. Now I sighed. Did Jordan really mean that much to her?