September 2012

“I can’t believe you’re making me go out to this stupid club!” I whined on the phone to my best friend, Bianca.

“Layla, you need to get out of that house and get over this!”

Ok, so I knew it was true. Maybe I have been cooped up in the house for a while and maybe I was isolating myself from everything. It had been a few short months since my whole world was turned upside down. The man who I thought I was going to spend the rest of my life with had an affair with another woman. When I had found out, I vowed to work through things with my husband, Austin and put everything behind us. However, Austin had different plans. He told me that he was not in love with me and that he wanted a divorce so that he could be with the other woman.

Fast forward to now, I am still living in the home I shared with my then husband who has moved out (and moved on) while I’m still reeling from the betrayal.

I never thought I would be a divorcee at the young age of 30 but here I AM!

I went through my closet and searched for something to wear. I hadn’t been out to a club in ages. What do people even wear anymore?

“I have nothing to wear, B. I think that means I should stay home.”

Bianca sighed heavily. “Layla, just throw on a cute top, jeans and some heels.”

“Fine.”

Bianca squealed. “Yay!! I’ll be there in 20 minutes! Love you, bye!”

I grabbed a red lace tank top, some dark jeans and some black heels. I pulled my long curly black hair into a low ponytail, did some natural looking makeup with a bold red lip that looked perfect on my caramel colored skin. I looked at myself in my full length mirror and thought I looked pretty damn good. I wonder if I’ll catch any looks tonight… I don’t know. I’m not really ready for that… but maybe I should just see what happens.

———————-

Bianca and I sat at the bar at Club Sunset having just ordered our second round of drinks. I was starting to get a nice buzz and had finally loosened up some.

I’m glad Bianca dragged me out tonight. I’m actually having fun. Fun isn’t exactly apart of my life lately.

“So you ready to hit the dance floor, girl?” Bianca asked.

“Sure..” I replied hesitantly.

Bianca led the way through a small crowd of people until they reached the dance floor. With my drink in hand, I danced and let the music move me. Three songs later, I patted my friend on the shoulder and said “I’m going to head back to the bar! Time for another drink!”

Bianca nodded and continued to dance. I made my way to the bar noticing a couple of eyes look my way.

Hmm.. I could get used to this. Yeah, I still got it! Fuck Austin and that skank he left me for. He was such a —

I was so consumed with my thoughts that I didn’t notice I was walking right into someone.

“Oh my gosh, I’m so…. sorry” I blurted out. And then I saw it… the most beautiful blue eyes. Hell, the most beautiful EYES I’ve ever seen!

Holy shit, he’s fine! And he looks vaguely familiar…

We stood like that for a couple more seconds just staring at each other until we both realized just how awkward it was and the guy spoke.

“Hey, no worries. Seems like you were in a little bit of a hurry” he said.

I could feel my cheeks turning red. Am I blushing? Or am I just drunk? Or both? Why am I blushing?

“Yeah, just heading back to the bar for another drink.” I said breaking eye contact and looking towards the bar.

“Would you like some company? Oh, my name is Joshua, by the way. You can call me JC.”

“JC? Like JC from NSYNC?” I gawked. Then quickly changed my face to a more nonchalant expression, because hello I do not want to scare this beautiful man away.

“That would be me. Were you an NSYNC fan?” He asked warily.

“I wouldn’t say fan per se.. but I mean you guys were pretty popular during my teenage years so I am familiar. Does that weird you out?”

“No, not at all.” He smiled. “So, like I said, would you like some company at the bar? I was headed that direction. And I didn’t get your name?”

Company?? What? “Uhh- sure. I’m Layla.”

We headed towards the bar and sat down. JC ordered a Jack and Coke. Me, a Sex on the Beach.

“Sex on the beach, huh? Interesting choice” JC laughed softly.

I smiled and felt the heat rising in my cheeks again. Blushing again?

“Yeah, I like girly drinks I guess. Or maybe just ones with suggestive names” I joked.

“Noted. So what brings you out tonight?” JC asked.

“My friend Bianca convinced me to come out. It isn’t usually my thing… but I let her talk me into it”

“Well I’m glad she did.”

Is he flirting with me?

“So Miss Layla.. tell me about yourself.” JC stated as he took a sip of his drink.

I rolled over and yawned and opened my eyes slightly to adjust to the sunlight coming into the room.

Why is it so fuckin’ bright and why does my head feel so heavy?!

Now I’m remembering why I haven’t been out in so long. Hangovers suck.

I stretched my arms out wide and SMACK! My hand came in contact with skin. And no, not my skin.

Who is in bed with me? Instantly I thought OMG did I get so drunk that I called Austin for a night of drunken “please take me back” sex?

“Oww! Damn girl!” JC groaned.

Woah. What a minute. Why is JC in MY bed??? I remember meeting him last night at the club. Then drinks.. then what??

I gasped and looked down at my black lacy bra and matching panties. Please don’t tell me I had sex with this stranger!

JC must have sensed my panic at that moment because he starting grinning. “For the record, we did not have sex”

I breathed a sigh of relief. “Oh… ok.”

That’s good, right? I thought as I looked over and saw this beautiful specimen of a man in my bed… shirtless… staring at me.

Suddenly, I became shy and hopped out of bed in search of my robe. I put it on and tied it and stood awkwardly at the foot of the bed. JC sat up and ran a hand through his dark, curly locks. “Good morning… I think?”

“Good morning. Sorry if I’m being weird. I just don’t remember much of what happened last night.”

“You and me both. But I do remember kissing you. A lot” He smiled.

I blushed and started fidgeting with the tie on my robe.

“We did? Did we do anything else?”

“No, I wouldn’t take advantage of you, girl.” JC climbed out of bed and put his shirt over his head and walked towards me.

“But, would you like to grab some breakfast with me?”

“Uh, yeah sure. Let me just uh get dressed. Is this like a date or something?” I said still fidgeting with my robe.

JC laughed. “Sure, if you’d like it to be.” He then placed a light peck on my cheek. “I’ll wait in the living room while you get ready”

He walked away and I think my heart stopped beating for a second or two after that kiss.

Get it together, Layla! This guy is hot and he seems like a good person.

It’s been so long since I dated anyone so ok, I’m a little rusty.

———————

We decided on breakfast at a little cafe downtown. We slid into the booth, one of us on either side. A waitress arrived to take our orders and poured us some piping hot coffee.

I took sip of coffee and looked up and made eye contact with JC.

“So what are your plans today?” I asked him.

“Well, it’s Sunday so I typically try to make Sundays my off days. Unless of course, something else comes up. So I don’t really have any exciting plans today. Maybe kick back and watch some football later. And you?”

“Umm, I’m off today as well. I usually just work 3 days a week. Nurse life. But no plans for me either. I don’t usually have any plans beyond work to be honest” I said looking away.

“And why is that? You have friends, right?”

“Oh yeah. I do. I just.. I, um have just kinda laid low lately” I shrugged and took another sip of coffee. Ok, so I’ll admit.. I didn’t tell JC about my divorce. I have this super hot ex-pop star interested in me at the bar and well mentioning divorce didn’t really seem that appealing.

“I get it. I’m sort of lowkey like that too.”

Our food arrived at that moment and we began to eat and chat here and there. The waitress set the bill down on the table and we both reached for it at the same time.

"I can get this" I stated.

JC lightly picked my hand up and I swear his thumb grazed the back of my hand for a millisecond, then he placed it back down on the table and picked up the check. "I know you can get it, but you're not. Its my treat."

"JC. I can pay for my own food. I don't want you thinking I'm some gold digging girl"

"Layla." JC rolled his eyes and then smirked at me. "Didn't I invite you to breakfast? So it is MY treat."

He quickly placed some money on the table and stood up and placed his jacket on. I followed suit as we exited the cafe.

We stepped outside into the cool air and stared at each other awkwardly. 
"Sooo, I can take you back home or you could come to my place with me and watch some football.." JC trailed off looking down at his sneakered feet.

Everything in me was screaming YES GO TO HIS PLACE. But for whatever stupid reason, I opened my mouth and said "Umm, I actually need to get back home and do some laundry and you know some other stuff. Or whatever."

JC quickly said "Yeah, sure no problem. Well, let's get going. I'm freezing."

__________________________________________

Needless to say, the drive back to my place was an awkward one. I glanced over at JC a couple of times in an attempt to read his mood, but couldn't really decipher it.

Yes, I wanted to spend more time with him! BUT, this was all too soon. I just met him. Yeah, we slept in the same bed together last night (half naked at that) but that's besides the point. We were drunk. It meant nothing. He's this super rich hot guy that people fanaticize about and I'm just this average looking chick who overthinks literally everything. What could he possible want from me?

We pulled up in my driveway and JC looked over at me. "Well, I'll see you around. I had fun, Layla"

"Me too. Um, thanks for breakfast." I hurriedly grabbed my purse and began to hop out of his car when I felt his hand grab mine.

"Text me, ok?" He looked at me with sincere eyes.

"I will, JC. Bye" I shut the car door and practically ran inside my house. When I shut the front door, I let out a big sigh and looked around. My house has been my sanctuary lately, my escape from the world when all I wanted to do was be alone and sulk. But now... it just felt so lonely.

Nearly a week had passed and I had gone back to my normal routine with one little difference— JC was on my mind 24/7. The only problem, I had not talked to him. I didn’t text him, but he had not texted me either. 

It was Saturday afternoon and per usual, I was at home. Alone. Staring at the tv watching some mindless reality show. My phone began ringing and my heart jumped. It was Bianca. I secretly hoped it was JC. 

“Hey, B.”

“Hey girl. What’s up?” 

“Nothing. The usual.” I sighed. I am so thankful for my best friend. She has been there for me through everything. My shoulder to cry on when I learned about the affair. After moving to LA, I wasn't exactly close to my family back home in Ohio. So to me, Bianca was my family out here. 

“Still haven’t heard from JC?” she asked.

“No. I don’t know what I was thinking. I can’t believe I brought him home with me. I feel so stupid!” I whined.

“So call him.” 

“No. What would I even say?” 

“Um, hello it’s Layla, I want you in my bed again” Bianca laughed.

“You know I’m not saying that shit!” I chuckled. Bianca is the more blunt one in our friendship. I am the more subtle one. Unless of course, I’ve have a couple of drinks in me. For example, the night I met JC. 

“Ok fine! Then just text him. That’s less scary, right?” She asked.

“I suppose. I just didn’t want to be the first one to reach out.”

“Layla, this man is obviously on your mind. So why not?”

Why not? I guess she’s right. 

____________________________________

Later that night, I climbed into bed and scrolled mindlessly on my phone trying to get the courage to text JC. Here goes nothing!

Hey JC. It’s Layla.

I pushed send and put my phone down. 10 minutes passed and I was literally pacing the room by that point. 

Hey.. thought you forgot about me… He replied back.

I could say the same for you

Ok ok. I deserve that. But I didn’t forget about you. Just have been really busy. Plus you told me you would text me. I was waiting.

Yeah, I’ve been busy too. 

Busy thinking about me?

Oooh, what a flirt.

I try, Miss Layla ;)

This was going better than I expected. JC and I texted back and forth talking about everything under the sun, our favorite colors, our favorite artists, everything. Before I realized it, two hours had passed and the clock on my nightstand read 1:15AM.

Holy shit. I didn't realize how late it was. I have to work in the morning. I texted.

Sorry for keeping you up. Call me tomorrow?

Sure. Goodnight JC.

Goodnight :)

I put my phone down and rolled over on my side in an attempt to fall asleep, but all I could think about was JC. I wondered if he was thinking about me too. I doubt it. He most likely has millions of women he texts cute flirty things to, right? Part of me hoped that was true, then I would have an excuse to keep him at a distance. Self sabotage is my middle name!

______________________

I sat down at my desk at work to finish up my documentation on my patients for that shift. It was 7:05pm and my shift was technically over, but as a nurse your shift is hardly ever over on time. I truly love my job, but the days are long and physically exhausting at times. I bet you're wondering how I ended up working at a hospital in LA when I am from Ohio -- a state so totally unlike California. 

When I graduated nursing school at Ohio State University, I began working right away at Ohio State Medical Center in the emergency room. I loved the fast paced environment there. Everyday I didn't know what to expect and I loved the thrill of that.  I worked there for several years and began to get the burnout that most nurses feel after a while. A colleague of mine introduced me to travel nursing. With travel nursing, I could have an assignment anywhere I wanted for 3 months, then move to literally any other state and have another nursing assignment. I did that several times and the change of pace and location definitely made a difference. Traveling to an assignment Houston and then LA. However, I liked the assignment in LA so much that I applied for a permanent position and decided to put down roots here in LA and at East Hollywood Medical Center. This is where I met Bianca, who is also a nurse and we still work with each other now.

I clicked 'submit' for the last documentation note on my computer and shut it down. I went to my locker to grab my bag and quickly checked my phone. 1 new message from JC.

Hope you had a good day at work. Call me later ;)

I smiled and began walking out towards the garage to my car. Once I got inside, I pressed his name on my phone and waiting nervously for him to answer.

"Hey girl"

Shit his voice was so sexy over the phone.

"Hey."

"How was work?"

"It was okay. Kind of a slow day so I didn't get out of there too late today."

"Well, that's good news. So listen, if you're not too tired, you should join me for dinner."

"Dinner? Where? I'm still in my scrubs."

"At my place. Who cares? I'm sure you look great in your scrubs."

I blushed and looked down at my black scrubs. I mean, they did fit me well. In all the right places..

"You cooked?" I asked.

JC laughed. "Negative. I ordered Chinese and it should be here in 20 minutes or so."

Just on cue, my stomach began to growl basically making the decision for me. 

"Ok. I am actually hungry. Text me your address"

"I will. When you get to the gate, I'll buzz you in. See you soon, Layla. Drive safe."

"I will. Bye JC." I ended the call and threw my phone in the passenger seat.

I looked in the mirror and attempted to fix my hair. Let's just say it did not look the same way it did at 7 AM this morning when I got to work. My curly pony tail had somehow become a frizzy mess. My very minimal makeup I had put on was now basically non-existent as I had either sweated it off or smudged throughout the day. I did my best to brush my hair back and rub off any smudges that were left and applied a little lip gloss. This will have to do.

As I drove out of the parking garage and towards the address JC had texted me, I began to get this jittery feeling. I was so excited to see JC again, but didn't know what to expect. I just hoped I didn't mess this up.

After JC buzzed me in, I drove through the gates and up a steep driveway. It wasn't until I was halfway up the driveway that I noticed just how massive his house was. Suddenly, I felt even more nervous.

What the hell am I doing here? His home makes mine look like a matchbox. 

Oh well. Too late to turn around now, Layla. 

I steadied my breath as I parked my car behind a jeep. A really fucking nice one at that. I stepped out and ran my hands down my scrubs smoothing them out. JC was standing in the doorway of his home looking at me intently.

"Hi." I said awkwardly as I walked up to him.

Do we like shake hands.. or hug... or what? This is weird as fuck. I don't know. So I just stood there.

"Hey. Come on in. The food just got here." He smiled and moved aside to usher me in.

I walked in and stopped in the foyer and literally gasped. Out loud. The walls were a pristine white. The marble floors were clean and shiny. Above us, was quite possibly the largest chandelier I've ever seen.

"Your house is beautiful, JC." I turned to look at him and briefly caught his eyes flit from my ass to my face. How smooth, Mr. Chasez. But I acted like I didn't see.

"Thank you. I wish I could take credit for the designing, but I hired someone to do that." He chuckled.

"Of course you did." I laughed. "Wish I could say the same."

"Oh, stop. Layla, your house is nice too," He assured me.

 
I nodded and my stomach growled. Loud enough for both of us to hear. 

"Sounds like someone is hungry." JC laughed. "Come on, girl. Let's eat."

I followed him through a long, spacious hallway to his kitchen and we each took a seat at the bar stools placed at the kitchen island. 

"Did you buy enough food?" I joked. There was fried rice, lo mein, egg rolls, wonton soup, and about five other food items. 

"Hey, I like Chinese food." He shrugged.

"Me too. I guess we have something in common." I smiled. 

We ate our feast and chatted about my day at work and JC's day in the studio writing songs for a new artist he was working with. It was super cute how his eyes lit up when he talked about music. I made him promise to let me sit in on a studio session one day so I could see him doing what he does best. 

We cleaned up the remaining food that was left. JC popped open a bottle of Pinot Grigio and poured each of us a glass. 

"Would you like to watch a movie? If not, I understand if you need to get back home or whatever." JC stated as he took a hefty sip of wine.

I glanced at my watch and it wasn't even 9 PM yet. "Sure, we can watch something. What did you have in mind?"

"I don't know. Let's just find something on Netflix." JC led me into his "theater room". There were several theater style chairs and a huge flat screen TV on the wall. He flipped a switch and several dim LED lights that were lined around the top of the room came on. 

We settled in and found a comedy to watch. Let me just say, JC has the absolute cutest laugh I have ever heard. Halfway through the movie, our bottle of Pinot Grigio was almost depleted. 

How the fuck did that happen? Thankfully, I just had a good, chill buzz. That's why I love wine. I was more relaxed and now everything on the movie was hilarious to me and JC apparently too. 

We laughed until we literally had tears rolling down our faces.

"I'm not sure if that movie was just really funny or if this wine is just really good." JC chuckled as he stood up and stretched. His white shirt raised up just enough for me to get a peek of his toned stomach. 

Suddenly, I started to get that warm fuzzy feeling. You know, that one where you feel the heat rising in your face and also between your legs. JC placed his wine glass on a nearby table and our eyes met.

He walked slowly back over to me and hovered over me for a second. I looked up at him from my seated position and he leaned in closer.

"You're beautiful, Layla." He stated in a low whisper. 

Before I could even respond, or think, his lips were on mine. We started off slow, a couple of soft pecks. He grabbed both of my hands and pulled me up out of my seat so that we were standing up, face to face. His right hand cupped my face and he leaned in for a deep, passionate kiss. Our tongued swirled around each others and I felt my legs getting weak.

Damn, it has been so long since I've been kissed like this. And DAMN, it feels amazing.

That warm, fuzzy feeling took over my mind, and I reached my hand down between us and and felt his arousal through his jeans. JC let out a low moan and his hand instantly went to my breast and began kneading it in slow, circular motions. I whimpered at his touch. I wanted more, but I started to get in my head again.

It's only our second time hanging out. I should really slow down. I'm sure the only thing he wants from me is a quick fuck and I'll never hear from him again.

I broke our kiss and looked down at my feet. "It's getting late. I should get going."

JC took a step back and tugged at his jeans where his arousal was still pretty evident. I glanced at it and then back at the floor. 

Why am I suddenly acting so shy?

"You sure you're ok to drive?" JC asked.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. I think you had more than me anyway." I laughed. 

JC led us back to the foyer where I slipped my shoes back on. I reached for the door, ready to get the fuck out of there. I was still a bit flustered by our make-out session and here I was leaving him with blue balls.

He grabbed my waist and pulled me back towards him. My back against his chest. I felt his breath on my neck and another heat wave went through my entire body. 
He placed a light peck on my neck and turned me around and looked at me with his glassy, blue eyes. 

"I had a great time." He said. "Can I see you tomorrow?"

"Umm, yeah. Sure." I said quickly. I smiled awkwardly, turned around and opened the door.

I walked to my car, fumbling with my keys, dropping them on the ground. 

Ok, is it possible to die of embarrassment?! Because I think I am on my way there.

I picked them up, got in and started the car. I started my descent down his driveway and tried to calm myself down. Glancing in the rearview mirror briefly, I saw JC standing in the doorway with a goofy smile on his face.

The next morning Bianca and I went to the gym for some workout class she had signed us up for. Sitting in the house and eating junk for the past 6 months had made me gain a few pounds. I was starting to think that if I was maybe getting back into dating that I should get back in shape.

We began stretching as we waited for the class to begin. 

"So, have you been talking to your lover boy?" She asked.

I looked over at her and rolled my eyes. "A little."

"A little? The look on your face tells me something different."

"Ok, so we hung out last night." I shrugged.

"Oh, where'd you go?"

"His place."

"HIS PLACE?" She gawked. "I need all the details please."

I looked around at all the other people in the room hoping they did not hear any of our conversation.

"Girl, be quiet! I don't need the entire class to know I was at JC's house last night" I shushed her.

"Ok fine! Now tell me."

"He ordered Chinese, we watched Netflix and we kissed. That's all." I said nonchalantly.

"Sounds pretty PG."

"It got a little heated but I stopped it."

"Heated how?" Bianca's eyes got wide.

"Like, maybe he was a little.... excited." I blushed. "And then I practically ran out of there."

"You left JC Chasez with blue balls?" Bianca threw her head back and laughed. "Girl, why did you stop? He's clearly into you."

"It's been so long since I have done this, B. It's really hard for me to open up to anyone after what happened. I just keep thinking that this is too good to be true. I don't know what his intentions are and it kind of scares me."

Bianca looked at me sympathetically. "I know. Just take things slow... but if it feels good, then don't sabotage it. You deserve to feel good again, Layla."

The workout instructor entered the room and stood in front of the class. "Good morning, everyone! Grab a workout mat and let's get started!"

I started to think of what Bianca said. I liked being around JC and he definitely made me feel good. Maybe it was time to allow myself to open back up again.

_______________________________
I nearly limped out of the gym and to my car after that class. I swear I worked muscles that I didn't know existed. I was sore, but it felt good to break a sweat and release some anxiety.

"I am tired as fuck and it's not even noon." I whined reaching in my bag for my keys and unlocking my car. Bianca and I hopped in and I rested my head on the steering wheel. "I don't even want to drive."

Bianca laughed. "Well, you drove us here so you kind of have to."

I rolled my eyes and started up the engine and drove towards Bianca's apartment.My phone rang just as we pulled up to her apartment building.

She raised an eyebrow at me and mouthed "JC?"

I looked at the display on my phone and sure enough, it was JC.

"Yes. So be quiet! I don't need your commentary" I laughed.

"Hey, JC." I answered.

"Good morning. What's up?"

"Just left the gym with Bianca. I was just dropping her off at her apartment."

"Oh really? When do I get to hang out with you and your best friend?"

"I'm sure you will soon. She's always around." I chuckled and looked at Bianca.

"HI JC!!!!" Bianca leaned towards my phone and said loudly.

"B, I told you to hush!!!" I shushed her.

JC laughed. "Tell her I said hello"

I repeated it back to Bianca and she responded with "I can't wait to hang out with the man that is making my friend so happy!"

I placed my hand over my face and sighed. I told you she was blunt. Well, if JC had any question about how he made me feel, she answered that for him just now.

"Oh, I make you happy, hmm?" JC asked and I just knew he was on the other end of the phone with a smug ass smile on his face.

"Maybe." I said shyly.

"Feeling is mutual. Which is why I am calling... I want to take you to dinner tonight at one of my favorite restaurants. Are you free?"

"Yeah, sure."

"Ok, I'll come pick you at 7. See you later, babe. I gotta get back in the studio and finish this song so you can have my undivided attention tonight."

"Ok. Bye JC." I hung up the phone and looked at Bianca and squealed. "WE'REGOING ON A DATE TONIGHT!"

Holy shit. We're going on a DATE, tonight. AND he called me BABE?

It was 6:55pm and I was pacing the floor of my living room as I waited for JC. I had finished getting ready early, just in case he arrived early, but instead it just made me more anxious as I had more time to sit around and wait.

I wore a leopard print low-cut tank top paired with a black leather skirt and black knee high boots with a heel. I wore my curly hair down and it fell just past my shoulders. I applied a little bit of eyeliner, mascara and topped the look off with a nude, pink lipstick. 

While waiting, I had texted Bianca a picture of my complete look. She texted me back: You're definitely getting some, tonight. :) 

At 7:02pm, my doorbell rang and I glanced at myself in the mirror one last time before I opened the door. JC was standing on my porch with a bouquet of red roses and a bottle of wine.

"Hey beautiful, I brought you some presents." He smiled and handed me the roses. I took them and stepped aside to let him inside. 

"Aww! Thank you, JC. They're beautiful. I'm going to put them in a vase before we leave." I blushed.

I walked towards my kitchen with JC following close behind. I found a vase, put the flowers in with some water and set it on my kitchen table before I sniffed them one more time. 

JC placed the bottle of wine in my fridge. "That's for later."

As excited as I was for dinner, I was now even more excited for "later". 

JC walked up to me and put both of my hands in his and stared at me intently. "You look amazing, babe. I can't wait to show you off."

I blushed and smiled. "Thank you. You look handsome too."

He gave me a soft peck on my lips and said "Let's go. I'm starving!"

______________________________________________________


We arrived at Uptown Cafe and JC grabbed my hand as we walked in. It was an upscale, yet not formal restaurant. The lights were dimmed and there was tons of string lights draped throughout the space. There was light jazz music being played, but it seemed fairly quiet in there. We were seated in a more secluded part of the restaurant. I could tell that JC knew the owners. We were ushered to our table immediately upon arriving and the hostess placed a bottle of champagne on our table.

"It's really nice here. Very chill." I said looking up from my menu to look at JC.

"Yeah, I love it. It's nice but not formal and stuffy. Not to mention, the food is amazing."

I ordered a salmon and rice dish with a side salad. JC ordered the chicken parmesan meal. He poured each of us a glass of champagne as we waited for our food.

"So, word on the street is that I make you happy.." He grinned.

"Hmm.. Sounds like a rumor to me." I said with a straight face.


JC's grin dropped to a frown and he looked at me with furrowed brows. "Oh."


My straight face didn't last long before I burst into laughter. "I am joking, Jace. It's true. You make me really happy, actually."

The grin was back on that handsome face of his. "You make me happy too, Layla. I really enjoy spending time with you."

"So, tell me about your family.  I know you're not from LA. Does your family visit often?" JC asked.

"Well, I'm from Ohio. My mom and dad have been divorced since I was a kid. I have two older brothers. I talk to everyone occasionally, but no, they have not come to LA to visit me. Let's just say, they weren't exactly happy when I told them I was moving to LA." 

"Why not?" 

"Just because it is so far away. My mom likes to keep tabs on me and she couldn't do that with me being thousands of miles away. Most likely, the reason why I did move so far away. I needed to grow and experience life on my own and truthfully, they were hindering me from doing that."

"I get it. You're the baby of the family. They were just being protective." 

I shrugged. "I guess. So now, I guess they're upset with me and have been for the past two years so things have been weird. Sometimes it makes me question my move out here, but I really love it in LA. It's home to me now." I took a sip of champagne and looked up at JC who was looking at me with concern in his eyes.

"For the record, I am really glad you're here. I really hope you guys are able to patch things up, honey. Family is really important."

I nodded in agreement. Just then, the waitress arrived and placed our food on the table. It smelled amazing! We began to eat and chat some more. JC fed me a bite of his chicken parmesan and I made a mental note to order that next time.

"I'm going to use the ladies room. I'll be right back." I stood up and smoothed out my skirt and winked at JC as I walked away.

I found the restroom and did my business as quickly as possible so that I could get back to dinner with that hunk I was with. I was having such a great time. JC made me feel like I was the most beautiful woman in the room.

I washed my hands and took a quick peak in the mirror to make sure my hair and makeup still looked good. At that moment, a woman stepped out of the other stall and my heart stopped. It was that BITCH, Brianna. The one that my ex, Austin, left me for. In the same bathroom as me. In the same restaurant as me. Which means he's in this restaurant too.

We both looked at each other and I took a deep breath and started to walk towards the door.

"Layla. Wait." Brianna stopped me.

I turned around and looked at her with fire in my eyes. What could this bitch possibly want to talk about?

I looked at her and said nothing. I guess she expected me to speak.

"I just wanted to say that I am sorry about everything that happened with Austin."

I couldn't tell if she was sincere or not and frankly, I didn't care. I just wanted to get the fuck out of there.

"It's fine. I have to go." I reached for the door again and she stopped me. AGAIN.

"Believe it or not, the divorce was hard on Austin too. I really don't think he meant to hurt you."

I rolled my eyes. "Well, he did. I hope you all have a happy life together."

"Things are better now. I'm pregnant and we're expecting a baby in a few months." She rubbed her small baby bump and smiled at me.

PREGNANT?

Before I knew it, the tears were stinging my eyes. I said nothing, yanked the door open and bolted out of the restroom. I quickly walked back to our table and desperately tried to wipe away my tears before returning to the table, but it was too late. JC saw me and looked at me confused.  I sat down quietly in my chair and refused to make eye contact with him. I was a ball of emotions. I was hurt, angry, and of course embarrassed that I was at dinner with JC and crying about another man.

"Layla. Honey, what's wrong?" He reached across the table and held my hands in his, rubbing them softly.

I sniffled and looked at him. "Can we just leave, please?"

"Sure, baby. I'll pay the bill. Here's my keys, you can go to the car and I'll meet you there." JC got up in search of the waitress and was able to flag her down. I took his key and walked out of the restaurant and to his car. Once I got inside, the tears began to flow.

 
What a date.

"Do you want to talk about what made you so upset?" JC and I had arrived back at my house from our disaster of a date. Ok, well the date part itself wasn't a disaster. Just running into my ex's current girlfriend, baby's mama, whatever she is and having her brag about them expecting a baby together is what ruined the night. 

I made a beeline for the fridge as soon as we stepped foot inside the door and popped open the bottle of Moscato JC had brought over. I poured myself a generous cup and one for JC as well. 

We were standing at the kitchen island. I was on one side and JC on the other. I brought the wine glass to my lips and took a big sip.

"While I was in the bathroom, I ran into my ex's current girlfriend. The one he cheated on me with and left me for."

JC nodded and looked at me sympathetically. "Did she say something to you?"

"Yeah... She told me that they are expecting." Saying the words out loud was harder than I thought. I felt the tears coming to the surface again.

"Wow. I'm sorry, Layla. How long ago was this relationship with your ex?" 

"We broke up 6 months ago." I took another large sip, hoping this wine would make me feel better. And fast.

"I see. Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?" He offered.

I sighed and smiled at him from my side of the kitchen island. "Just being here is enough. I'm sorry I let other people ruin our date."

JC walked over to me and pulled me into a hug. "Hey, it's ok. There will be plenty of other dates ahead and this one will just be a memory."

I rested my head against his chest and he placed a kiss on the top of my head. Being in his arms felt so amazing. JC was so caring and patient. He could have easily just dropped me off at home and sped the fuck out of here. Or even worse, left my crying ass at the restaurant. He deserved to know the truth about Austin. That he wasn't just an ex, but my ex-HUSBAND. Once again, I failed to mention that part tonight. I mean it was already a drama-filled evening and I didn't need to add to that.

"Hey, I know something that will make you feel better." JC said.

"Hmm?" I pulled away and looked up at him with a raised eyebrow. "Are you talking about sex?"

JC laughed that terribly cute laugh of his and said "No, I wasn't, but hey... I won't turn it down."

I probably would've been way more embarrassed if I hadn't already finished my glass of wine, and let's not forget the fact that JC saw my ugly cry face earlier tonight as well. 

"Ha Ha. Ok, what were you talking about then?" I inquired.

"Let's dance."

"Dance? Right here?"

"Yeah, why not?" He shrugged.

JC walked over to my radio and switched it on and the sound of country music came on. I stifled a laugh at the sight of JC's face. "Didn't take you for a country music fan, girl." He laughed.

"Hush, I like to listen to it sometimes. The songs are really like story telling. Don't knock it until you try it."

"I'll take your word for it." He turned the radio to the next station and 'Truly Madly Deeply" By Savage Garden was playing. Oh, the nostalgia. 

"I LOVE this song." I gushed and began to hum along.

"Perfect." JC said and pulled me back close to him, his hands on either side of my hips. I placed my arms around his neck and we began to sway to the song. I was still feeling some residual sadness, but in this moment, all that mattered was being with JC and listening to this song. 

You don't have to close your eyes

Cause it's standing right before you

All that you need will surely come

I'll be your dream,

I'll be your wish,

I'll be your fantasy

I'll be your hope,

I'll be your love,

Be everything that you need
I'll love you more with every breath

Truly, madly, deeply do

I was standing in my kitchen dancing with this beautiful man and listening to this beautiful song. The words seemed so relevant. And JC was right, I was feeling better. Things were getting better for me and I needed to accept it and welcome it instead of running from it. Dwelling on the past was only going to keep me there. It was time to move forward.

JC moved his body closer to mine and his arms circled around my back. We locked eyes and JC licked his lips and leaned in for a soft kiss. I deepened the kiss and allowed my tongue to explore his mouth and he welcomed it by doing the same. I tasted the wine on his lips and it made me want more. We continued kissing long after the song ended and a different song came on. I couldn't tell you what songs came on after because they were tuned out when we began kissing.

I pulled away to catch my breath because goodness, it was getting hot in here. 

"Feel better, sweetie?" JC asked.

"Absolutely. Thank you." 

"Anytime." He smiled. "What do you want to do now?" He asked.

I knew what I wanted to do but I still felt like it was too soon to take that step. However, I did know that I didn't want JC to leave anytime soon. Hell, I didn't want him to leave at all.

"I'm exhausted. I think the crying and wine has caught up to me. I just want to lay down. Will you hold me?" I asked.

"I'd love to."

I took his hand in mine and led him to my bedroom. I kicked off my boots and stripped down to just my shirt and panties. JC followed suit, and took his shoes and pants off leaving just his shirt and boxer briefs on. We climbed into my bed and I pulled the duvet over us. I laid with my back to JC and he curved his body against mine and placed his hand across my stomach.

"JC?" I asked.

"Hmm?" He answered half sleep. I felt his breath tickle my neck. 

"Will you stay with me tonight?"

"Of course, baby." He kissed my neck softly and hugged me a little tighter. 

I could stay like this forever.

*One month later*

I was sitting in JC's studio while he worked on a new song for a new artist named Karly Mitchell. During this particular session, he was doing a little writing, strumming on his guitar occasionally and tinkering around with a bunch of buttons on a sound board. I was watching him in amazement. He was totally in his element and it was super cute to witness.

Oh, did I mention that I don't like this Karly girl? Well, I don't. JC introduced me to her at the Halloween party his manager/friend Eric hosted last week. I didn't like the way she looked at JC and basically ignored the fact that I was there with him. I'm definitely going to keep my eye on her going forward. However, the party itself was so much fun. JC gets all into Halloween. He asked me to go but under the condition that we had a couples costume. 

"A couples costume?" I asked. 

"Yeah, it'll be so fun. Please?!" He was practically giddy about this idea.

"Aren't couples costumes for people who are dating?" I asked. We had not put a label on this 'relationship' we were doing, but not by choice, it just had never come up in conversation. Until now.

JC looked at me confused. "We aren't dating? Are you seeing someone else?"

I shook my head and laughed. "Seriously JC? I'm with you almost everyday. Who else would I be seeing?"

JC smiled. "Okay, you have a point. So, why can't I go to a Halloween party with MY girl in a super sexy costume?"

"Your girl? Hmm, I don't remember you asking me if I would be your girlfriend." I flirted.

"I thought that was understood, honey. But I'll appease you. Layla Roberts, why don't you be my girlfriend? I'll treat you good. I know you hear your friends when they say you should."  JC asked in a sing-songy way stifling a laugh the entire time.

I couldn't help but giggle at the NSYNC reference. 

"Well, when you put it like that, how can I say no?" I kissed him and sealed the deal.

So, here we were in the studio where we had been for the past hour. I was getting restless, but it didn't seem like JC was going to be finished anytime soon. The man can spend an entire day in here. It was time to distract him a little.

I stood up from the couch I was sitting on and sauntered over to JC who was sitting in a chair writing some lyrics down on a notepad. He looked up briefly and raised a brow at me then continued writing. "What's up, babe?"

"I think you deserve a break. You've been working so hard." I grabbed the pen and pad from his hands and tossed it aside. Then looked him in the eyes as I slowly sat down on his lap, straddling him while placing my arms around his neck. JC welcomed me by placing his hands on my hips.

"I could use a break." He smiled before he pressed his lips against mine. JC's kisses were so slow and sensual. His hands traveled from my hips to my ass and gave it a light squeeze. I let out a small gasp as we were kissing and I felt him smile at my reaction.

"You're so bad." I whispered as I pulled away from our kiss.

JC shushed me and in an instant, his lips were back on mine. I could feel his arousal against my jeans as I grinded on him slowly. Things were hot and heavy in a matter of minutes.

It had been a little over a month since JC and I began seeing each other, but we still had not had sex. This was the extent of our sexual relationship: hot and heavy make-out sessions and feeling each other up. 

I was certain that JC was ready to take that next step, but I was still hesitant. Did I want to have sex? Absolutely. Look at this man. He's hard to resist!

Truthfully, the thought of JC being the first person I would have sex with after my divorce was something that made me worry. With all of the sweet things he did and said, I still had my doubts. I didn't want to take that step with him and be totally disappointed if we didn't work out. I had some serious abandonment issues after my last relationship.

JC's kisses had moved from my lips to my neck and I moaned at the feeling. Just as he reached for the hem of my shirt, we were interrupted by none other than little miss Karly herself as she busted into the studio.

I stood up quickly from JC's lap and adjusted my clothing and brushed my hair back with my hands. JC attempted to cover his bulge in his pants. 

"Looks like you're working hard, JC" She said in an annoyed tone.

He cleared his throat and grabbed the pen and notepad that I had tossed aside earlier. "Was just taking a quick break. How'd you get in here?"

"Remember you told me to meet you here at 3. I already know the gate code and your door was unlocked." She said nonchalantly.

Why the fuck does she have the gate code?

'Yeah, sorry. Lost track of time" JC said.

"Yeah. No shit." She rolled her eyes and looked in my direction. Ok, I really don't like this girl.

JC motioned for her to come over towards the sound board. "I'll show you what I've been working on so far today."

"Sure" She said giddily and took a seat in the chair beside JC. I suddenly felt invisible and like I was intruding on their session. I sat back on the couch that I had occupied earlier and watched their exchange. JC would show her a line of lyrics he had written down and sing it to her in a certain melody. I noticed her placing her hand on his shoulder a couple of times or stealing looks at him and I was becoming more and more uncomfortable. I felt like JC basically forgot I was there.

After a couple of minutes, I stood up and grabbed my phone and purse. "Hey, um.. JC, I need to get going. Call me later."

Neither JC or Karly looked my way. He just waved his hand up and said "Sure, babe. Call you later."

I let myself out of the studio and then out of JC's house and got in my car. Those feelings of uncertainty were there again. I had a bad feeling about this girl and her relationship with JC. He seemed to totally ignore me once she got there and I didn't know if it was due to his work or other reasons. My mind was racing and all I wanted to do was go home. I drove home fighting back tears the entire way.

I got home from JC's and my mind was still on overdrive. I busied myself around the house, cleaning and making myself dinner. After dinner, I sat down on my couch and switched on the TV. I checked my phone numerous times to see if JC had called or texted. I was mentally going over every little thing he could be doing with Karly right now.

After watching a couple of shows, I decided to take a long, hot bubble bath to relax. I sat in the tub and thought about the events that went on today. I wanted to know why Karly didn't like me and why JC ignored me once she got there. As much I wanted to know, a part of me was scared to know the truth. Or what I thought was the truth.

I began to relax in the bathtub and got out around 10pm. I put on some comfy pajamas and decided to get in bed. I wondered why JC hadn't called yet, but I wasn't going to call him.

At some point, I drifted off to sleep and awoke to the sound of my cellphone ringing. I checked the clock on my nightstand and it read 12:04 AM. 

Who is calling me after midnight?

"Hello?" I answered sleepily without looking at the display.

"Hey baby. Did I wake you?" JC said on the other end.

"Yeah. It's okay though. What are you doing? Did you just finish in the studio?" I asked curiously.

"No, we finished around 8pm. Then, we decided to go out with a couple of our friends."

A pang of jealousy went through me. JC and Karly went out TOGETHER? I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Was I dreaming?

"Oh." Was the only response I could come up with.

"Yeah, so I was just calling to tell you goodnight. I know you have to work in the morning. I'll see you tomorrow, ok? Goodnight sweetie."

"Goodnight JC." I said and ended the call.

Maybe I'm not girlfriend material for a guy who is a celebrity and has beautiful women around him all the time. I was starting to second guess this relationship and it had just begun. I sighed and rolled over and hoped I could go back to sleep soon. I was so not looking forward to going to work with all of this on my mind.

______________________

The next day, I was leaving work to head home after a shitty day. I was overwhelmed with patients today and it was a stressful shift. I got in my car and started out of the garage and dialed JC's number by habit. It was becoming my after work routine to phone JC as soon as I got out of work.

"Hey beautiful. How was work?" was how he greeted me. JC never failed to make me gush by calling me beautiful, or any other sweet adjective he decided to use that day.

"Hey Jace. It was shitty."

"I'm sorry. Wanna talk about it?" He asked.

"Not really. What are you doing?"

"Just finished up some studio stuff with Karly. Are you going straight home? I'll meet you there with dinner." He offered.

I winced at the mention of Karly. Can this bitch just disappear already?

"That sounds great. See you soon."

"Drive safe! Muah!" JC kissed into the phone and the call ended.

How can I really be upset with him when he was so cute?
_____________________________________

I pulled into my driveway to see JC's car already parked there idling. We got out of our cars at the same time and started towards the front door. JC smiled at me with a bag of food in his hands. He greeted me with a light kiss on the cheek.

Once inside, we started towards the kitchen. JC grabbed plates and silverware and ordered me to sit down at the kitchen table as he put the food on our plates andtook a seat across from me.

We ate in an awkward silence for a couple of minutes. My mind was on his sessions with Karly and the events that happened the day before in his studio. I wanted to be the non-confrontational, easy-going girlfriend but a part of me wanted to ask what was up with him and Karly. I guess JC read the thoughtful expression on my face.

"Layla. What's wrong?" He asked.

"What's going on with you and Karly?" I asked surprising myself with how direct I was being for once. Way to ease into the conversation, Layla. 

JC stopped shoving chicken alfredo in his mouth briefly and placed his fork down. "What do you mean? She's an artist I work with.."

"I mean, it seems like there is a little more there than just an artist you work with. When she showed up yesterday, you nearly forgot I was there." I avoided eye contact and focused on pushing the food around on my plate.

"I just got caught up in my work. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you feel that way."

"You didn't answer my question." I finally looked up at him. My brown eyes meeting his blue ones.

"Look, um, I'm going to be honest. Karly and I used to casually date. We went on a couple of dates. It never really went anywhere. We decided we were better off as working colleagues and friends and not boyfriend and girlfriend. I don't have any romantic feelings for her." JC looked at me sincerely. I searched his eyes looking for any hint of dishonesty and didn't find any.

"Ok. I wish I would have known this. Does she have feelings for you?"

"I'm sorry. I should have told you that we have dated before." He scratched his head briefly and looked away then back at me. "And I'm not sure if she has feelings for me or not... BUT that doesn't matter to me. I'm with you. The only feelings that matter to me are yours."

My heart fluttered in that moment. I needed that reassurance and here he was, providing it and putting my concerns at bay. For now.

"It still makes me uncomfortable that you guys go out together." I voiced.

JC nodded. "Ok. Won't happen again. Unless you're with me."

"Trust me, I do not want to go out with her even with you." I rolled my eyes.

JC laughed and shook his head. "Ok, ok." He stood up and walked over to the sink to clean his plate. I followed suit and rinsed mine as well.

"Are you staying tonight?" I asked looking up at him with pleading eyes. "I'm so lonely when you're not here."

JC chuckled. "Sure. We have to get you a dog or something to keep company when I'm not here."

"Hush. I'd rather just have you." I wrapped my arms around his neck as he enveloped me in a tight hug.

"So, what are you doing for Thanksgiving next week?" JC asked.

We were at a small coffee shop downtown. A couple of weeks had passed since the Karly incident. I haven't seen nor heard much about her since then so I was feeling much better about things with JC. There was rarely a night that we spent without each other. And no, he didn't get me a dog. Although, I wasn't really opposed to that idea.

"Probably nothing. I haven't been home to Ohio in a couple of years." I shrugged and took a sip of my latte. "What about you?"

"I'm going to Florida to visit with my family. You should come."

I nearly choked that time. "Come with you to see your family?"

"Yeah. Why not? They'll love you." He smiled.

"I have to work." I replied quickly.

"So, take off. Use vacation days." He answered just as quickly.

"I can't, babe. They really need me and it's too soon for me to ask for vacation." It wasn't a complete lie. Work has been pretty swamped lately with a recent uptick in patients. I was sure that I could use my vacation days, but the thought of meeting JC's family freaked me out.

"Well, maybe I need you." JC said with a smirk.

"JC..." I rolled my eyes and looked away.

"Fine. I'll let it go." He said. I studied his face and he didn't appear to be angry so I breathed a sigh of relief.

_________________________

A few days later, I was leaving work and practically running out of there. JC was leaving for Florida the next morning. He had decided to stay the night with me and I wanted to soak up all the time I could with him before he left me for an entire week.
I pressed his name on my phone and waiting impatiently for him to answer. "Hey baby."

"Hey. Where are you? I just left work. Have you packed yet? I can meet you at the house. I'll be there in 15." I rambled.

"Woah. Slow down." JC laughed. "Yes, I am packed and heading out the door now. I'll see you at your house."

"Sorry, I just want to spend as much time with you as I can before you leave."

"I know, honey. I'll see you in a few. Bye." JC said sweetly and ended the call.

I threw the phone in the passenger seat, started the car and headed home to meet JC.

______________

I got to my house before JC arrived so I let myself in and decided to freshen up a bit. I discarded my scrubs and hopped in the shower and quickly lathered up and took the quickest shower ever. I stepped out smelling of warm vanilla, dried off and put on some pink lounge shorts and a white tank top. I pulled my hair up into a bun and looked in the mirror satisfied with my look. I heard that familiar knock at the door and ran to open it.

JC stood on the porch with a suitcase by his side and a backpack on his back. "Hey."

"Hi." I said and moved aside to let him in. He left his belongings at the door and pulled me into a hug.

"You look good, baby." He snuggled his face into my neck, his stubble tickling me .

"Thank you. I missed you." I sighed.

"Already? I haven't even left yet, girl." He laughed.

I pulled away and smacked his arm. "Hush. Don't remind me."

I walked to the kitchen, opened the fridge and pulled out a bottle of wine. I needed something to calm my nerves so that I didn't focus on JC's impending departure in the morning. JC settled on the couch and starting flipping through channels.

Girl, get a hold of yourself. It's only a week.

I curled up beside JC, sipping my wine slowly. JC had turned on an episode of some singing competition show and became engrossed in it. It was always music with this guy. I watched it here and there, sipping my wine, stealing glances at JC. The wine succeeded in relaxing me.

"I know you're staring at me, woman." He said still staring at the TV.

I blushed and laughed. "Sorry."

He turned towards me and grinned. "Like what you see?"

Before I could answer, he had pushed me back on the couch and settled on top of me, his lips capturing mine. My body instantly heated up with want for him. I deepened our kiss, my tongue dancing around his. I opened my legs allowing him to settle closer to my core feeling his length along the damp fabric of my shorts.

He broke our kiss and traced a finger down the side of my face to my neck and the center of my chest sending chills down my spine. I closed my eyes in anticipation of what was next, but then felt my body get cold as the warmth of his body was suddenly gone. I opened my eyes to see him standing up beside the couch, his hand stretched out offering to help me up.

I accepted his offer as he pulled me up to him. Hand in hand, he led me down the hallway to my bedroom. I stood awkwardly by the bed, not knowing what to do next.

"Lay down." He ordered his voice low and husky.

I got on the bed and laid down as he climbed back into the position we were previously in on the couch. His lips began their attack on mine. I raised up and began to pull my tank top over my head. I felt JC's eyes on my bare breasts for the first time. I didn't feel self conscious under his gaze. He began to nibble and flick on my nipple with his tongue, his hand massaging the other. He then switched sides giving the other nipple just as much attention as the other before leaving a trail of kisses down my stomach. He grabbed either side of my shorts and slid them down effortlessly. I was on full display for him and his eyes darkened with desire.

"Am I the only one getting naked tonight?" I half joked looking at his fully clothed body.

"Be patient." He growled and started his trail of kisses again until his mouth met my wet center. I gasped at the first contact. His tongue lapping me softly and slowly. My hand found its way to his curls and I instinctively pushed his head closer. He moaned and the vibration sent chills through my entire being. He quickened his pace and deepened the pressure on my clit and I felt the warm wave of an orgasm washing over me. I let out a loud moan and threw my head back in complete pleasure. That first orgasm, after not having any for months, felt like ecstacy.

JC sat up satisfied at his work. He pulled his shirt off and threw it on the floor, his pants and boxer briefs followed. He settled back on top of me, the tip of his hard member at my slick opening. He slowly pushed himself in inch by inch until I was full.  

"Shit" He whispered, hanging his head lower to mine, his eyes closing briefly. He opened them back up and focused on my eyes. "You're so tight, baby."

"Mmmm" was all I could whimper as he began a steady pace thrusting himself in and out of me. His hand cupped the side of my face as he kissed me intermittently between his own moans and mine. The slow knocks of the headboard hitting the wall became more fast and loud as he sped up.

"JC.." My breath was knocked out of me with each powerful thrust. "I'm gonna cum-- uhh --fuck"

"Yeah, baby. Let it go. Cum with me." He grunted, beads of sweat popping up on his forehead.

"FUUUUCK" I felt the wave of a second orgasm come tumbling down as my walls tightened around him. JC grunted as he slammed into me one last time, releasing inside me. He collapsed beside me, turning on his back and we both lay there naked coming down from the most incredible high.

After a while, JC pulled the duvet over us and faced me kissing me softly. "That was worth the wait."

"Now I really don't want you to leave." I whined.

"At least you got a parting gift" He smiled.

"Shouldn't I be the one giving that?"

"Next time, baby."

It was Thanksgiving Day and I was at work with a small caseload of patients. Thankfully, it was a slow day so it made it a little easier being at work on a holiday. Plus, I was getting paid double time so that was another good thing.

It had been two days since JC left for Florida. The morning after he stayed with me, I woke up in his arms, our bodies flush against each other, still naked from the night before. The thought of it now still makes my knees go weak. We had finally allowed our relationship go to the next level and now I really couldn't get JC off of my brain.

I was in one of my patient's rooms, preparing her evening medication and gathering supplies to change a dressing on her abdomen from her hernia surgery she had the day before. We had chatted some throughout the day when I would make my hourly rounds and she was a sweet lady who reminded me a lot of my mother.

"So, who are you spending your Thanksgiving with, young lady?" Miss Alice had asked me as I was placing several pills in a small cup.

I felt a small tinge of sadness but looked up at her and smiled. "Just me. My family is from Ohio."

"Oh, really? Do you visit them often?"

"Not too often. It's a long and expensive trip to take often. I saw your family came to visit you earlier." I handed her the cup of pills and a cup of water to swallow them.

She took them in one swift movement and gulped them down with a sip of water. "Yes, my son, his wife and their two sons, my grandsons, came to bring me a plate from their Thanksgiving dinner. It was lovely considering I am stuck here in this hospital."

I smiled at her. She was incredibly optimistic for someone who was spending their holiday recovering from surgery. "That's nice, Alice. Did ya get some pumpkin pie?'

"Yes, homemade! My daughter-in-law makes the best pumpkin pie in town!" She gushed.

I carefully pulled the old dressing from her abdomen and tossed it in a nearby trash can. I inspected her incision mentally noting that it looked healthy, cleaned it and applied a new dressing.

"You don't have a special person you're spending this day with? You're way too pretty and smart to be alone."

"Thank you, Alice. I actually have a boyfriend, but he is in Florida with his family for Thanksgiving." I discarded my gloves and walked over to the sink to wash my hands.

"Why didn't you go with him?" She inquired. Wow, what's with the 21 questions, lady?!

I walked back to the hospital bed and pulled her blanket back over her. "I had to work."

"I see. Well, I am glad you are here with me because you're a great nurse. My late husband used to love the holidays. It makes me a bit sad when this time of the year rolls around, because I don't get to spend it with him anymore. If I learned anything darling, it was that jobs are important, but they are not your life. Spend your time wisely and with the people that make you happy."

I nodded at her sympathetically and headed towards the door. "Thank you, Alice. I will remember that. Happy Thanksgiving."

I finished the rest of my shift with Alice's words still on my mind. I was beginning to regret not going with JC to Florida. I knew that once I got home, I would be reminded that I was spending my Thanksgiving alone while my boyfriend and family were thousands of miles away.

_________________________________

I returned home from work and took a nice, long shower, changing into some comfy pajamas and putting my robe on. I decided on not texting JC to allow him to spend uninterrupted time with his family. I settled on the couch ready to really begin my pity party. I flipped through the channels and found The Notebook was just starting. Great, another thing to make me even more sad. .

I heard a tap, tap on the door and wondered who it could be. JC was in Florida. I wasn't expecting anyone else.

As if they read my thoughts, the voice on the other side of the door said, "Layla, it's B! Open up!"

I shuffled over to the door and opened it to see Bianca standing there with a several plates of food wrapped in aluminum foil. "I brought you some food!"

She stepped in and walked to the kitchen with me following behind. She set the plates on the counter and began unwrapping them revealing turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, rolls and of course, pumpkin pie. My heart literally swelled at the thoughtful gesture.

"Wow. Thank you. You didn't have to do this.."

Bianca looked at me and raised an eyebrow. "Did you really think I was going to let you spend Thanksgiving alone? Hell no. Eat up, girl!"

I swear I love her. I began to dig in, savoring the amazing food, surprised that was still warm.

"My mother made all of this food. She's an amazing cook. You could've come over for dinner. You know you're always welcome."

"Thank you, B. You're the best."

I ate until I was literally stuffed and placed the remaining food in the fridge.

"Looks like I crashed your little pity party here." Bianca joked.

"Basically. I should've just went with JC." I sighed.

"Told you so! Just think, you could be with him now having sex in his parent's house." She laughed.

I gasped and hit her playfully. "I would do no such thing!"

"Girl, don't act like you guys haven't been having sex. You spend almost every night with him." She rolled her eyes.

"We've only done it once, actually. The night before he left was our first time." I confessed, my cheeks blushing as images of that night popped up in my head.

"WHAT?! OK, SPILL. How is sex with THE JC Chasez?"

"Fucking amazing." I smiled as I began to tell her all of the juicy details of our first time.
____________________________________

I yawned and climbed into bed around 11:30. Bianca had stayed to watch The Notebook with me and we had a glass of wine as I filled her in on the latest with myself and JC. She had just left and I realized just how tired I was from my long day.

I decided to phone JC before I went to sleep to see how his day was going. It rang twice before I heard "Hey, baby girl. I've  been waiting for you to call."

I smiled and sank back into my pillow. "Sorry. After work Bianca came by with food from her family dinner. Then we watched a movie and had a drink. I'm just now getting in bed."

"I see. That was nice of her to bring you some food. I'm glad she made sure you weren't alone too. She's a good friend."

"She is. I'm lucky to have her."

"So, how was your day?" He asked.

"It was ok. Work was slow.."

"I wish you were here with me. I've told my family all about you and they can't wait to meet you. In fact, they have insisted that you come back with me for Christmas and I am not taking no for an answer this time."

"Well I guess I don't have a choice then, huh?" I giggled.

"Nope. I can't stand being away from you this long." He said softly. "I miss that smile, those beautiful brown eyes, your lips, your soft skin... THAT ASS!" He continued and laughed at himself.

"JOSHUA SCOTT CHASEZ!" I gasped into the phone.

He tried his best to contain his laughter and all I could do was roll my eyes. "Joshua, huh? I must be in trouble."

"Oh, yeah. Tons."

"Well, I guess I just have to make it up to you when I get back." He said low and seductively.

My breath hitched and my body was suddenly very warm. "Can't wait, baby."

"I know." He said cockily.

I heard a male voice in the background yelling at him to hurry up. "Sorry, that's my brother Tyler. He's yelling for me to come back in the living room to finish our game. I'll call you tomorrow, ok? Goodnight honey."

Boys and their videos games.. I laughed to myself.

"Goodnight Jace." I ended the call and placed my phone on the nightstand. I rolled over and hugged my pillow. It still smelled like JC, a woodsy scent of patchouli and cool eucalyptus.

I couldn't wait until he was back home.

JC had returned to LA from his visit with his family is Florida. He told me so much about his family and all the things to do there. I was starting to get excited about traveling with him the next time.

We fell back into our routine: me working, JC writing and producing for other artists. Then, spending time with each other every free moment we got. There was rarely a night that went by that I didn’t spend falling asleep in JC’s arms. We were growing really close and with that realization, came more fear from me. I was afraid of investing my time in something I cared so much about and it ending with me being heartbroken. I tried my best to keep those feelings to myself, because I didn’t want to seem clingy or worse, scare JC away.

“Babe, did you hear me?” JC said into the phone breaking me away from my thoughts.

“No, sorry. I zoned out for a second." I laughed.

“I said I’m having some people over tonight for a game night at 8. It was Lance’s idea. We haven’t hung out in a while so he suggested a game night with a couple of friends. I want you to come.”

“Lance?? Like your former band mate?” I asked excitedly. JC and I had spent so much time together alone that I sometimes forgot he knew and regularly hung out with other celebrities. It was still something I was getting used to.

JC laughed. “Yep, that’s the one. It’ll be me, you, Lance, his boyfriend Michael, and a couple other people we know. Nothing too big.”

“Ok Jace. I’ll be there.”

“Great, babe. I can’t wait to introduce you to all of my friends. They’re going to love you.”

“I can’t wait!” I said anxiously.

“Bring your friend, Bianca. The more, the merrier.”

“Ok, I’ll see if she’s free.”

“See you tonight, honey. Bye”

“Bye, Jace.”

I hung up and immediately ran to my closet and looked for something to wear.  I called Bianca on speaker phone as I continued ripping my closet apart. 

“Hey Lay” She answered.

“We’ve been invited to JC’s for a game night. Do you want to come with?”

“Hell yeah, I want to come! What time?”

“He said 8, so be here by 7:30 please. I know how you can be so fashionably late.” I rolled my eyes. It’s true. The girl is never on time. 

“Oh, HAHA. I will be on time so you can make it to your heartthrob boyfriend’s party. What are you going to wear?”

I groaned as I threw a skirt on the floor. “I don’t know! “

“I’m sure you’ll find something. Just keep it cute and casual. I’ll see you at 7:30! Bye!”

“Bye. DON'T BE LATE.” I hung up and tossed my phone on the bed.

I was hoping she would’ve given me some ideas but here I am, still standing in front of my messy closet. The worrying about what to wear had poured over into worrying if his friends would like me. Would they think I’m up to JC’s standards? Would we not have anything in common because I wasn’t rich nor famous like them?

Ok, get a grip, Layla. 

--

I heard a knock on the door at 7:25pm and I went to the door confused. Surely, this wasn't Bianca arriving on time, better yet, EARLY?

I opened the door to see my best friend with a smug look on her face. "Bet you didn't think I could be on time, huh?"

I laughed and stepped aside to let her in. "You look cute, Layla! JC is going to be drooling once he sees you." She continued.

I had decided on a simple black t-shirt style dress that was form fitting and fell just before my knees, a red and black flannel that was left unbuttoned, and a pair of Converses. I had always worn my hair curly and natural around JC, but tonight I decided to straighten it and it fell right to the middle of my back. I knew how much he liked my curly hair, so I hoped he liked my hair tonight even though I had switched up.

"I hope so. You look great too, B." 

Bianca was wearing a graphic tee with Prince on it, some ripped jeans and a pair of Vans. We both looked cute and comfy and ready for game night at JC's.

"Well, let's get going!" I said grabbing my purse and keys. We headed out the door, hopped in my car, and drove to JC's house. 

--

We pulled up in JC's driveway that was crowded with at least 8 other cars including mine. I thought this was a small party? I could feel my palms getting sweaty as I gripped the steering wheel. I parked my car behind someone's BMW and Bianca and I headed towards the front door which was surprisingly left unlocked.

We let ourselves in and the house was pretty quiet. As I walked a little further, I could hear the faint noise of music playing from the backyard. "I bet everyone is out back." I said to Bianca. I led her towards the back of the house to a door that led to JC's yard. As soon as I opened the French doors that opened up to the spacious yard, JC spotted us and sauntered towards us with a cute smile on his face. 

"Hey babe. You look beautiful." He greeted me with a kiss on the cheek then he hugged Bianca. "Hey Bianca, I'm glad you could come!"

"Thanks for inviting me! Your place is amazing!" She looked around the yard in awe. The entire space was surrounded by a tall privacy fence and and large evergreen trees. There was a patio area where most of the guests were congregated talking and laughing amongst themselves. On the patio, were several lounge chairs, a bar with bar stools and a grill that was currently being used by JC's chef, Mario. There was music playing through the sound system.

I had been out here a handful of times with JC, but never when he was entertaining other guests. It really made the space come alive. 

"Come on, I'll introduce you to everyone." He grabbed my hand and led us towards the small crowd of people. 

"Hey, guys!" He raised his voice to catch everyone's attention. They directed their attention to JC and I immediately felt my cheeks getting warm. Here is the moment I have been worried about. "This is my girlfriend, Layla and her friend, Bianca!" He motioned towards us and placed his arm around my waist and pulled my closer. I smiled meekly and waved. Several people waved back, some others said "Hi!" cheerfully and a handful walked over to give me a hug, specifically Lance.

"Hey girl! I've heard so much about you." Lance said kindly. "JC, this girl is WAY out of your league!" He joked playfully shoving JC.

"I know, but I guess she felt sorry for me! I got lucky." JC laughed. 

"Oh, stop it Jace." I blushed. 

"I'm going to grab some drinks. Bianca, would you like to help me?" JC asked.

"Sure!" She stated following him to the bar located on the other side of the patio, leaving me and Lance alone. I had a feeling this was all a part of JC's plan to allow Lance to get to know me. 

"So, JC tells me that you're a nurse. That is awesome. What is your specialty?" Lance asked.

"I bounce around to different areas usually. Sometimes medical-surgery, sometimes pediatrics, or mental health. It helps to keep me from getting burn out." 

"I get it. I really admire nurses. I think they are some of the strongest people in the world. Are you from LA?"

"Well, thank you. I really enjoy what I do. No, I'm from Ohio. I moved here a couple of years ago during a travel nursing assignment and decided to stay."

Lance and I chatted for several minutes getting to know each other. He introduced me to his boyfriend, Michael, and they were both the sweetest guys and made me feel super welcome. I was starting to feel a little more comfortable. 

JC and Bianca returned with drinks in their hands. JC handed me a cocktail and I took a sip. "Mmm, did you make this?" 

"I did. I know what you like." He smiled.

"That you do."

We sat at a table of a group of people who were starting a game of Uno. Bianca bet JC she would win and he argued that he was the best Uno player this side of LA. Needless to say, she won and gloated about it but he took it like a champ. He was the butt of everyone's jokes for a couple of minutes after that game. Then, everyone moved on to a game of charades. JC and I were on a team while the other guests paired up as well. JC and I lost horribly, but maybe because we had another round of cocktails during the game, so everything that the other players acted out just made us end up laughing. 

"Okay, who wants to play Twister?" Lance announced giddily.

"NOT ME." I stated loudly from JC's lap. "After the drinks JC keeps making me, I would lose my balance if I just stood up right now." 

Everyone laughed and some joined Lance, Michael and Bianca for Twister, some busied themselves at the bar making more drinks and dancing to the music that was playing. 

I remained in JC's lap and ran my fingers through his hair. "Your hair is getting so long, babe."

"I know. I need to cut it." 

"Nooo, please! I love it like this." 

JC looked me in my eyes as he licked his lips. "Speaking of hair, I love yours like this. I love it curly too, but this is sexy."

"Thanks, I was hoping you would like it." I leaned down to kiss him on the lips. 

"Mmm, I love it." 

He patted my leg and motioned for me to stand up. I got up from his lap and he grabbed my hand and walked towards the doors leading into the house. 

"Where are we going?" I asked stumbling slightly trying to keep up with him.

He pulled me inside, closed the door and led me down the hall to a room I recognized as his office even though it was dark inside. He pulled me inside the room and locked the door. He pressed me against the door and began to kiss me deeply as his hands went to either side of my face.

I broke the kiss panting "There's people out there, JC."

"They're outside. They can't hear anything in here." He shushed me and guided me over towards the desk and lifted me up placing me on top of it while he stood between my legs. He kissed me again and I lost myself in his kisses, as I do most times. His tongue explored mine and the taste of whiskey on his lips left me even more intoxicated. He slid a hand between us and he rubbed my center. 

"Did you wear this dress for me?" He whispered as his lips left my mouth and traveled to my neck.

A simple "Yes" was all I could muster out of my mouth as his lips continued to trailed down my neck. He pushed closer to me and I felt just how excited he was. 

"I want you so bad, baby. I've been thinking about it all night." His breath was hot on my neck and I felt like I might pass out from the heat and the alcohol. He must have read my mind because he pulled the sleeves of my flannel down as I wriggled out of it.

I hiked my tight dress up a bit giving him more access. I couldn't believe we were about to have sex in his office with a party of people close by outside, but my reservations disappeared as I felt JC pulling my panties down slowly as they fell on the floor. He quickly unbuttoned his pants and left them just below his thighs. His lips attached to mine as he entered me in one motion. I gasped into his mouth and he used that opportunity to tug on my bottom lip. He used the desk as leverage as he continued to pump in and out of me grunting softly. My mind was in a haze from the absolute bliss I was feeling and the thrill. I moaned loudly without even realizing where we were. JC shushed me and laughed. "You're going to get us caught."

I nodded and threw my back and tried my best to be quiet. JC began to pick up the pace as I wrapped my legs around him. I felt my orgasm approaching as I dug my nails into his back. "I'm right there with you, baby. Cum with me." He said and that was all I needed to let go as I kissed him again to stifle my moaning. He shuddered as he reached his climax and I felt him release into me.

He placed a kiss on my forehead and lingered there. "That was fun, honey."

"Yes, it was." I smiled. I am typically the shy, usually reserved girl, but I had just had sex with my boyfriend in his office? This was just a side of me that only JC could bring out of me. And I was beginning to love it.

JC helped me down off of the desk before he pulled his pants back up and buttoned them. He straightened out his shirt and ran a hand through his wavy hair.

"I'm going to go back out. You can go down the hall to the bathroom and freshen up, babe. If we both went back outside right now, everyone would definitely know we just had sex in here." He laughed.

"Is that really a bad thing?" I joked retrieving my black lace panties from his office floor and slipping them back on.

JC raised an eyebrow at me. "Honey, I don't care who knows. I'd yell it from the rooftops, but I know you're more reserved and I would never want to put your personal business out like that. So, we will just keep it as our little secret."

He kissed me one more time before he unlocked the door. He walked towards the door leading to the backyard and I walked the opposite way to the bathroom grinning about our "little secret" in the office.

--

After freshening up, I returned back outside and noticed most of the guests had left, leaving only a handful of people. Bianca looked my way as I walked toward her, and she smiled wide. She KNEW exactly what I had just got finished doing. I avoided her gaze as I walked over to her, Lance, Michael, and JC.

"Well, it's getting late. We should be going. I'm pretty sure Bianca has to work in the morning and she rode here with me." I announced.

"I do. 7 AM to be exact." She groaned.

JC pulled me in for a hug as he rested his chin on top of my head. "I wish you didn't have to leave, babe."

I melted into his arms, not wanting to leave either. Instantly regretting letting my friend ride with me, because all I wanted to do was go upstairs and cuddle with JC.

"I know." I said softly into his chest. I looked up and met his mouth for a kiss.

"It was really nice meeting y'all." Lance spoke up.

"You too. I really hope we can hang out again soon." I walked over to hug Lance and Michael. Bianca and I waved goodbye as we walked through the French doors back into the house to get the front where my car was.

Once inside my car, Bianca looked at me knowingly and started laughing.

"What's so funny?" I asked looking over at her in the passenger's seat.

"You sneaky bitch! I know you and JC snuck off to have sex!" She continued to laugh at me.

I turned up the radio, focused on the road ahead of us and sighed. "I don't know what you're talking about."

--

I awoke the next morning and rolled over expecting JC to be on the other side of the bed. After a few seconds, I remembered that I came home alone. I rubbed my eyes and stretched out in the bed as I thought about the night before. I was falling hard for JC and he had opened up a side of me that I thought I would never get to experience again.

Just a few short months prior, I had spent a lot of my days in a deep depression, experiencing crippling anxiety about every situation. Now, I was feeling lighter and like I had something to look forward to each day. Was I in love? I wasn't quite sure. I had promised myself that love didn't exist for me. The one person I had loved before had hurt my pride, my confidence and my most importantly, my heart.

My phone ringing on the nightstand halted my train of thoughts. As I reached over to answer, I glanced at the display that read 'MOM'.

My heart began to race. Phone calls with my mother were scarce lately due to our estranged relationship. In her eyes, I was to blame for my failed marriage. She never said it directly, but always made me feel that way with the comments she made.

"Hello?" I answered holding my breath.

"Layla. Hello. How are you?"

"I'm fine, Mom. Is everything ok?"

"Yes, everything is fine. I just wanted to call my daughter. I haven't heard from you in months, dear."

I breathed a sigh of relief. "I know, Mom. I've just been pretty busy. How are you doing?"

"Oh, fine. I officially retired from my job last month and I am already getting bored around here."

"Congratulations,  Mom. You deserve it. You worked for the bank for as long as I've been alive and then some." I suddenly felt guilty that my Mom had went through this huge milestone and I had no idea.

"Yes, it was a long time coming. So, with all of this free time, I thought I would do some traveling."

"Oh yeah? Where to?"

"First stop is LA to see you. I'll be there tomorrow!" She said excitedly.

"WHAT?" I jumped out of bed and began to pace the room. My mother in LA? Tomorrow?

"Yes! Isn't that exciting?! I can't wait to see you, honey! I'll be staying at the Westin in downtown LA, but I would love if you would pick me up at the airport!"

"Yeah, Mom. Sure, I'll be there."

"Ok, I land around 3pm! See you tomorrow, Layla."

"Ok, bye mom." I hung up the phone and looked around my room at the unmade bed, clothes strewn across the floor. My mom had a tendency to be very critical of me. I had to make sure my house was spotless by tomorrow.

I would also have to introduce JC to my mom. Would they get along? Would my mother approve of JC?

I stood in the airport by myself nervously chewing my lip and checking my phone. Breathe, Layla. Its just your mother. How bad can it be? Last night, I told JC about my Mom coming to visit and he was excited to meet her. I tried to explain to him my mother's sometimes judgmental ways and to not take everything she said to heart. His response was "I'm a big boy, Layla. I can handle it. Plus, I'm sure she'll love me." As modest as he is, JC still has his cocky ways. He knows he's charming as fuck.

While nervous, I was still excited to see my Mom. It had been almost a year since we had seen one another. I glanced at the screen that announced the arrivals and departures and noted that her flight had just landed. Moments later, I saw my mom walking towards me smiling from ear to ear and rolling her cute Coach luggage behind her. I greeted her and she pulled me in for a long hug.

"Layla, honey, it's so good to see you!" My mom pulled away and I saw her eyes were on the verge of tears. Her genuine response made me feel so many emotions as I tried to keep my own tears at bay.

"Hi Mama. I missed you." 

"I'm so excited to be in LA! It's beautiful here. I can't wait to see your home!" She gushed.

"Yes, it is. I love it here, Mom. I think you will too. I also have someone I want you to meet later."

Mom looked at me surprised. "Really? You're dating again?"

"Yeah, I am and I'm really happy."

Mom placed a hand on my shoulder and squeezed it affectionately. "I think that's great. I can't wait to meet him. You deserve some happiness after everything you've been through."

Maybe my mother had a change of heart? That was not the response I was expecting from her, but I gladly accepted it and hoped that dinner with JC later would go smoothly.

"Thanks, Mom. That means a lot to me. Let's get out of here." I took her luggage from her as we walked towards the airport exit.

-----

"Layla, it looks amazing in here. Did you decorate this yourself?" Mom took a seat on my couch and looked around the living room.

"Thank you. I did. I was hoping you would like it. You should see JC's living room. It's about 5 times this size." I took a seat beside her.

"JC? What does that stand for? And what does he do?" She inquired.

"It stands for Joshua Chasez. His name. He's just always went by JC but you can call Josh. He is a song writer and producer and he used to be in a band years ago."

"That all sounds wonderful. Well, I can't wait to meet this Mr. Chavez!"

"CHASEZ, Mom!" I laughed and shook my head. She began laughing too. "I'll try to remember that."

We both stopped laughing as awkward silence filled the room. I starting picking at my hands because I knew what topic was coming next - the divorce with Austin. 
"So, how are you since.. you know.. the divorce? Have you seen Austin or spoken with him?"

"I'm fine now. I wasn't for a long time. I really struggled with things and I kind of just shut off everyone and everything. I have been much better now though. No, I haven't seen him... but I ran into his girlfriend recently and they're expecting."

My mom looked at me as tears welled in her eyes. "I'm sorry I wasn't here for you like I should have been. I regret that. As your mother, I should've been more supportive when you needed it the most. I was just so upset that your marriage didn't work out and as someone who has had a failed marriage, I didn't want that for you. I am truly so sorry."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. This was all I ever wanted to hear from my mother. It was the cause of a lot of our estrangement. I couldn't put into words the range of emotions I was feeling. I just stared at her as tears ran down my cheeks.

"You don't have to forgive me now, but I hope you do one day. I just hope that we can mend our relationship and that I can be more supportive for you now." She continued as she wiped a tear from her own cheeks.

"I would like that a lot. I miss you, Mom." I hugged her tightly as we sobbed together.

I pulled away as I heard a knock at the door alerting me that JC was here. I stood up and quickly tried to wipe away my tears and collect myself. This was going to be awkward greeting him with my face all red and tear stained.

"It's JC." I said to my Mom.

She jumped up from the couch. "Where's your bathroom so that I can fix my face?" She laughed.That's my mama. She has to look her best.

"Down the hall and to the right." I pointed. She hurried down the hall and I went to the door to let JC in.

"Hey baby--- what? Are you ok? What's wrong?" He pulled me into a hug and rubbed my back. He's so sweet when he's concerned, but really I didn't want to start the waterworks again.

I pulled away before I could become emotional again. "I'm fine, Jace. My mom and I were talking and I got a little teary. It's ok, really."

He looked at me still a bit concerned but accepted my answer. "Ok.. Where is your mom?"

"Bathroom. She'll be out in a sec. Are you nervous?" I asked.

"No, honey. I told you this is going to be fine. Quit worrying." He reassured me.

Just at that moment, my Mom walked towards our direction. "KC!! Hi dear! Nice to meet you."

"JC, Mom!" I placed my hand over my face and sighed. This woman just keeps butchering his name.

"Hello, Mrs. Roberts." JC said stifling a laugh. "It's lovely to meet you as well."

"Oh, please call me Amelia. Mrs. Roberts sounds so old and I am not old yet." She pulled JC in for a hug.

"Since JC is here, I'm going to get started on dinner. Mom, you're welcome to go rest in the guest room if you'd like." I offered.

"Actually, I do think I will take you up on that offer. That flight was exhausting."

"Okay. Follow me." I led her down the hall to the guest room and helped her get situated. Her head was on the pillow before I even left the room.

I met JC back in the kitchen as he was grabbing a beer from the refrigerator. 
"That was easy. I think you're all worried for nothing, Layla."

"Probably so. We had a good talk before you showed up. I'm really feeling much better about my relationship with Mom." I walked up to him taking the beer from his hand and taking a sip before placing it down on the counter. I pulled him in for a hug and snuggled into his chest. He smelled amazing per usual. His scent was so intoxicating and manly. He placed a gentle kiss on the top of my head.

"That's good, honey." We stayed in that embrace for a little longer before I pulled away to begin cooking.

----

"So, Layla tells me that you are a music producer and you write songs?" My mom asked JC as she took a bite of her steak. For dinner, I made grilled steaks and baked potatoes. I let JC make our garden salads. JC is not much of a cook, so I gave him the simplest task and I'll say he did it well considering all he had to do was chop up some veggies and throw them on some lettuce.

"Yes, I do. I've been doing that for quite some time now. I write songs for other artists now, but I have also written some of my own songs before too."

"Do you sing?"

JC hesitated before answering. "Sometimes."

I knew the topic of his own music was sometimes a sensitive subject for JC. I got the vibe that he didn't really want to divulge into that much more during this conversation so I thought it was time to change the subject before my mom asked him to sing.

"Mom, where do you think you're going to travel to next?" I asked. I snuck a quick look at JC and he looked grateful for the subject change.

"I was thinking Hawaii for Christmas! It would be so awesome to wake up on Christmas morning on an island!" She said excitedly.

"That does sound pretty amazing. I have always wanted to go to Hawaii." I agreed. I was really happy that my Mom was able to travel now. She deserved to have some fun.

"Have you been to Hawaii before, JC?" My mom asked.

"I have. Several times. I've actually traveled a lot when I was younger, doing shows and appearances." Oops, somehow we got right back on the subject of JC singing.

"Wow. I bet you have experienced so much! Layla, this is the one you should've married." She laughed.

I stopped mid chew and glared in her direction. "Mom... Please. Don't." 

I could've sworn I heard JC choke on his food at the mention of marriage.

"What? All I am saying is he seems a million times better than your ex-husband." She said nonchalantly as she continued to eat her food.

Suddenly, the air in the room was filled with tension and my appetite was gone. I looked at JC and the look on his face almost made me break down. He had just found out about my previous marriage in the worst way possible. I really wanted to tell him this on my own time. Okay, I admit it was way past due, but this was not the way I wanted it to happen.

"Excuse me, ladies." JC announced as he got up from the table and pushed his chair in. He walked towards the bathroom and I heard the door shut. My heart was racing. Was he mad at me? Upset? Was he going to break up with me?

"What's wrong?" My mother asked.

"He didn't know, Mom."

My mom looked at me wide eyed as she gasped. "Oh my God, Layla. I'm so sorry."

When JC emerged from the bathroom, he suddenly had to have an "emergency studio session" with a client. He barely looked at me as he said this, hugged my mom and told her it was nice to meet her before he left the house. I knew that was just a cop out to leave the situation because he was mad at me. Mom and I finished our dinner and she apologized profusely about ten more times before I just told her to stop talking about it. After dinner, I took my mother to her hotel and we made plans to meet up tomorrow evening after I got off from work. On the way back to my house, I tried to call JC and was met with the voicemail so I dialed Bianca.

"Hey girlie. What's up?" She answered.

"He found out."

"Who? Found out what?"

"About me being married before." I sighed.

"Oh, so you told him? How did that go?" She inquired.

"My mother told him."

"Woah. Wait. Your mother? Layla, how?"

I guess it was time to explain this shit show. "My mom is in town. She arrived this morning. So anyway, we were having dinner with her this evening and she made a comment about how I should have married JC first."

"Holy shit. No way. What did JC say?"

"Nothing. He excused himself from the table, went to the bathroom then claimed he had to have an emergency studio session with someone and he left. I just tried to call him and it went to voicemail. I'm pretty sure he's mad at me."

"I mean, do you blame him, Layla? That was definitely something you should have told him and way before now." I hate it when she's right. Why does she have to be right?

"I know. I know. I fucked up."

"Okay. So, what are you going to do about it?"

"Umm, I don't know what to do. Help me, please. I really care about him, Bianca. I don't want this to be over." I started to sniffle. I had done my best to not cry while I was with my mom and now it was all hitting me. Thankfully, I was pulling into my driveway and could go in my house and cry as much as I wanted.

"I know you care about him. I think you can start with apologizing and maybe explaining why you didn't tell him. He seems to be a pretty understanding person."

"How can I do that if he won't even answer my calls?" I whined. I opened my front door and threw my keys and purse down on a nearby table and collapsed on the couch.

"Give him some space. A day or two to cool off."

"Yeah, I guess so." I sighed and rubbed my forehead as I felt the headache forming from holding back tears. Waiting a day or two was going to kill me. JC and I had been with each other almost daily for the past three months.

"It will be okay. Don't stress about it." Bianca assured me. I wanted to believe it. I really did, but part of me was scared that this was really the end of us.

"I'll try not to. Talk to you later, B." I hung up before she could hear me break down. I laid my head on a pillow and let the tears flow freely. I had finally had the courage to begin another relationship after everything I had been through and now it was all tumbling down. I cried until I fell asleep on the couch.

--

"Damn, girl. You look like shit." My co-worker Jerry said to me as soon as he saw me putting my things away in my locker. It was the next morning and I had just clocked in at work. All I really wanted to do was lay in bed and mope, but I needed to work and get my mind off of things for the majority of the day. Jerry was right. I did look like shit. When I woke up this morning, my eyes were puffy and red and it was pretty evident that I had cried. A lot. I checked my phone and noticed there were no missed calls or text messages from JC overnight. However, I took Bianca's advice and didn't contact him.

"Thanks a lot, Jer. I had a bad night. And no, I do not want to talk about it." I slammed my locker shut and went out to the nurse's station to begin my shift.

Jerry followed close behind me. "Are you sure? You know we can talk about anything. Is it your boyfriend?"

I sighed as I grabbed my notepad and a pen. I really came here to focus on everything but JC and here it was 5 minutes into my shift and I was already being asked about him.

"Jerry, seriously. If I want to talk about it, I'll let you know. I need to go assess my patients." I put my stethoscope around my neck and walked towards my first patient's room.

This was going to be a long day.

---

My shift came to an end and I was never so glad to get out of there. Instead of work being a distraction, it just added to my stress. I was out of the building and in my car by 7:06pm. Typically, my car ride home consisted of talking to JC and making plans to meet up. However, I had no calls or texts from JC once again.

I called my Mom since we were supposed to meet up after work to hang out.

"Layla, how was work?" My mother answered.

"Fine. I guess." I sighed.

"Have you patched things up with JC?" She asked cautiously.

"No, I haven't. He won't answer my calls. I really don't want to talk about it, Mom. What do you want to do this evening? I just need to go home, shower and change."

Truthfully, I didn't feel like doing anything but going home and curling up in my bed and crying until I couldn't anymore, but I knew that my mom was only in town for a short amount of time and I needed to take advantage of that. Plus, the distraction would help.

"Let's go out. Have some drinks. Get your mind off of things." She suggested.

"You want to go out and get drunk?" I laughed. Getting drunk with my mom seemed kind of weird, but could be fun.

"There's a really nice bar here at my hotel. We can just drink here so we don't have to drive anywhere. You can crash here if you drink too much. So pack an overnight bag."

I thought it over. I really could use the company and some alcohol. What the hell. I'm going to party with my mom tonight at her fancy hotel and forget about JC. For the time being.

--

An hour and a half later, I was walking into the lobby of the Westin to meet my Mom. I had went home, showered, and changed into something more "bar-appropriate". I wore a pair of jeans, a cropped sweater and tall knee-high boots. It was December, so while not exactly freezing cold, it was chilly at night. I applied minimal make-up and had my hair pulled up into a high bun.

"Layla, hey. You look so pretty, dear." My mother gushed as she approached me. She pulled me in for a hug then leaned back and took a good look at my outfit. "I wish I could wear those tall heels. I would fall flat on my face." She laughed.

I laughed. "Thanks, Mama. Have you started drinking yet?"

"No, I was waiting on you. Let's party, girl!" She took my hand in hers as we made our way to the hotel bar.

And party we did!

An hour later, two shots of tequila and two cocktails later, we were giggling like school girls and singing along to the music playing at the bar. Who knew my Mom could be so fun? Growing up, my mom was always the responsible and reserved mother. I can count on one hand the amount of times I ever saw her drink. It was nice to let loose with her.

"I can't believe I'm in LA with my baby girl and I'm tipsy. I'm having a fabulous time." She placed her hand on my shoulder and leaned into me. Just tipsy? Woman, you're drunk.

"Me too, Mama. Taking shots of tequila with my mother is definitely bucket list worthy." I pulled out my phone from my pocket and checked the screen. Still no JC.

"That sexy man of yours still mad at you?" My mother asked.

"Goodness, Mama. Please don't call him sexy. That is just weird. I don't know if he's mad. I don't know what he is because he won't even talk to me." My eyes started to well up. Nope, don't cry. Not crying in a bar. With my mother. No.

"Aww, honey. I can tell you really care about this guy just from the short time I was around you both. He looks at you with so much love in his eyes."

Love? Ok, yeah she is definitely drunk.

"He doesn't love me. Or at least I don't think that he does."

She swatted my arm playfully. "Girl, are you blind? That man loves you and you love him. You both may not have admitted it to each other yet, but its there." She said matter-of-factly.

I didn't respond for a few minutes while I pondered on what she said. Did I care about JC? Absolutely. Did I think about him every hour of every day? Well, yes. Was I absolutely miserable knowing that I had hurt him and had not talked to him in a whole day? Hell yes.

Did I love JC? I did.

"I do love him, Mama. I do."

She looked at me and smiled. "Then, get your man back." She waved the bartender over and ordered us another round of shots. "But first, more tequila!"

--

It was around 11:45 pm when I followed Mom up to her hotel room, both stumbling and laughing along the way. I was so going to regret drinking all that tequila, but it didn't matter right now because I was having a great time despite the JC issue. 
Mom fumbled with the key card before opening the door and immediately kicking off her shoes.

"Mama, I'm going to stay out here in the hall for a sec and call JC." I don't know if it was the liquid courage or the fact that I was missing him like crazy, but I just had to try to call him.

"Okay, I'll probably be asleep before you get in here. I'll prop the door open. Be honest with him, Layla. I truly think that this will be okay." She assured me before disappearing into the room.

I looked at my phone and didn't hesitate before pressing his name and putting the phone to my ear.

Please answer.

With each ring, my heartrate increased. Finally, I heard the voicemail greeting. I sighed and slid down the wall I was leaning against until I sat on the floor. I guess I'll have to leave him a message.

"JC. It's me. I know you're upset with me, but please just give me a chance to explain things. I know I fucked up, but I don't want to lose you. I lo-"

Oh shit, this is not the way to tell him I love him. On his voicemail?

"I-I-I miss you. Please call me back." I ended the call and retreated into the hotel room. I went to sleep praying that he would come around and call me back.

The next morning I surprisingly didn't have a bad hangover. My mother and I had breakfast together before I took her to the airport for her flight home. The visit went so much better than I expected it to go and I was so happy that we had begun to mend our relationship. Despite all of this, I still had not heard from JC. I began to doubt just how much I meant to him if he could ignore me for a whole day, even after the voicemail I left.

I sat in my car in the airport parking garage in deep thought. Sure, I had told JC about my ex, just left out the marriage part. It couldn't be that bad, right? Did he not want to be with me because I had a failed marriage? No point in seeing this girl long term since she's obviously not marriage material, right? 

No. No. We are not doing the negative self talk today, Layla. Grow some balls and face this. So, I decided I had two choices: I could quit contacting JC until he was ready to talk to me OR I could make him talk to me.

I chose the latter.

I drove away from the airport and towards JC's home. It was now or never.

--

I punched in the gate code and drove up JC's driveway totally ignoring the fact that there was another car in the driveway that was not JC's. I went to the door and rang the doorbell. It felt like an eternity went by before the door was answered.

I was ready to lay it all out as soon as I saw him.

But he didn't answer the door.

Karly did.

I couldn't help the scowl that formed on my face as she looked at me smugly.

"Where's JC?" I asked pushing past her to walk inside the door.

She rolled her eyes as she shut the door after me. "What are you even doing here?"

Bitch, what are YOU doing here? This is MY boyfriend's house!

"I'm obviously here to see JC. Where is he?" I looked around the foyer and peaked into the living room, but didn't see JC. I wasn't in the mood for her bitchy attitude and I was trying my best to remain civil.

"Shouldn't you know where he is? Since he's your boyfriend and all? Oh wait, no he isn't anymore! You made this so easy for me, Layla."

Civil went out the window. I stepped up to her and looked her in the eyes. Who did she think she was? She was not going to intimidate me in my boyfriend's home. I came here to patch things up with JC not argue with this skank.

"You listen here... I don't know what JC has told you, but you can stay the fuck out of our relationship. You are simply an artist that he writes music for. Nothing more."

I stormed past her and made my way towards the studio, but Karly was following right behind me. I swear if JC is not in this studio, I am going to lose it.

I flung the door open and came to a halt as I collided with JC's chest. JC looked at me confused, "Layla? What are you doing here? When did you get here? I didn't hear you come in."

Karly spoke up before I could answer. "Oh, I went to get a drink and I heard the door so I answered it for you."

JC nodded and placed his hands in his pockets. I rolled my eyes. "I came to talk to you. ALONE."

"BUT we still have some verses to finish up. Right JC? We have a deadline to meet." Karly smiled at him and I swear it took all my willpower to not smack her into next week. I know JC and I have some problems right now but if he chooses to finish whatever they're working on over talking to me, I am really done.

"Um, yeah we do...BUT Karly, we can finish that another time though. I really need to talk with my girlfriend. Alone."

HA! Take that! He chooses me!

I couldn't help the smile that was forming on my face. Fuck your deadlines, fuck your song and fuck your nasally voice, Karly.

"Whatever. I'll call you tomorrow, JC." Karly grabbed her belongings from the studio and stormed out leaving JC and I standing there in an awkward silence.

Finally, he took a seat on the couch across the room and I followed suit taking a seat beside him. I gulped and my mouth felt extremely dry.

"JC. I'm sorry. I should've told you I was married before. I just didn't know how to really bring it up. Plus, its still a pretty sore spot for me sometimes. I just don't like to discuss it." I was wringing my hands repeatedly in an attempt to calm my nerves.

"Layla, I don't care that you've been married before. I do wish you would've mentioned it by now. I mean, we've been seeing each other for 3 months now. This isn't just some fling to me."

He doesn't care? Then why has he ignored me for the past day and a half?

"It isn't just a fling to me either. I know I messed up. I'm trying to fix it. Why didn't you answer my calls?"

"I just needed some space. Do you know how embarrassing it is to find out something like that from my girlfriend's mom the first time we are having dinner together? I was completely embarrassed. "

"Wow, I didn't think about it like that. I just thought you were mad at me." I confessed as I finally turned to look him in the eyes. He was already looking at me.

"I was never mad at you. I was going to call you this evening after the studio session so that we could talk, but I guess you kind of took matters into our own hands, huh?" He smiled at me and I smiled back. A rush of relief went through my body.

"I didn't mean to run Karly off.. Ok, I did mean to."

JC just shook his head and chuckled softly. "Its fine. You know that I would much rather be with you." He brought his hands to my face as he looked at me intently.

"Promise me, Layla. No more secrets, okay?"

I looked into those deep blue eyes and licked my lips in anticipation of a mind-blowing kiss that was about to happen.

"No more secrets."

It felt like a huge relief knowing that JC knew about my previous marriage now. We didn't talk much about it that day in the studio when we made up. I knew that eventually I would tell JC the whole story.

It was December 24th and JC and I were preparing to take flight to Florida to be with his family. I had called my mom the day before to let her know where I would be for the holidays. I wished her a Merry Christmas since we both would be traveling. Want to guess where she was going? Yep, Hawaii. I was so happy for her. She was ecstatic that JC and I had made up and were spending our holiday with his family.

"Are you nervous, babe?" JC asked as we boarded the plane and found our designated seats. Flying was not my favorite thing to do. Truthfully, I hated it and I was terrified.

"I'm not nervous about meeting your family, just the flying in the air for an extended amount of time.." I breathed in deep and let out a long sigh.

"Oh, come on. You've done this before." JC assured me.

"I know, but that doesn't mean I enjoy it, Joshua." I said through gritted teeth.

"Woah. It'll be fine, honey. I'm here with you." He kissed me on the cheek and I tried my best to focus on anything other than the fact that we were about to be thousands of feet up in the air for an extended amount of time.

I had to appreciate the fact that he was being so caring knowing that I was beside him losing my mind. "I know, Jace. Thank you."

"Well, we have some time so let's talk. Are you ready to meet my family?"

"I am. I'm actually excited to hear all the embarrassing stories about you. I'm sure your mama has some good ones."

"Oh, great. I'm sure she will tell you some, but at least she won't drop a marriage bomb on you like your mom did to me." He joked.

"Really, Jace?" I rolled my eyes. Somehow I knew this was going to be the topic of conversation on this flight.

"I'm kidding. So, what happened? Will you tell me everything?" He asked hesitantly.

"Well, um.. Austin and I met about a week after I moved out to LA. We met at a coffee shop. I was actually leaving and ran into him and spilled my coffee all over him. I was mortified then, but now thinking back on it, I wish I could spill a couple more coffees on him. Scalding hot coffees." We both laughed at that and I leaned back feeling myself relax some as the plane began to take off. JC took my hand in his and began rubbing gentle circles with his thumb.

"Anyway, we dated for about 6 months before he proposed. We got married at the courthouse about a month later and also bought our house. Everything was moving so fast and I had fallen hard. I really thought he was it for me." It felt a lot easier to tell this story now, but a part of me hoped it would be the last time I would have to explain it.

"He began to get really distant, was staying out late every night and picking fights with me. So, one night I decided to go through his phone and that is how I found out that he was having an affair with a co-worker. Brianna, the girl I saw in the restaurant that night on our date. Anyways, I confronted him about it and told him I was willing to work on our marriage issues if he agreed to break things off with her. He said he would and I thought things would improve. A week later, he told me he didn't love me anymore and that he wanted to be with Brianna. He moved out, filed for divorce, and the rest is history." I looked over at JC who was staring at me intently listening to every word. He had a hint of genuine concern in his eyes.

"I'm so sorry that happened to you, Layla. You didn't deserve that at all. I'm sure you were an amazing wife, so don't think that you weren't." He brought my hand up to his lips to kiss it.

"I tried to do everything right. I did the courthouse wedding, because that's what he wanted. I wanted an actual wedding with my family and friends. I wanted the experience. I didn't want to rush things, but I didn't want to miss out on the chance to have my person. Someone that I could spend my life with. So, I went along with everything that he wanted to do. I felt so stupid when things ended the way they did." I confessed.

"Love makes you do crazy things. You don't want to know half of the things I have done for love." JC laughed. I smiled at him. It felt really good to open up. "Do you ever want to get married again?"

Woah. He caught me off guard with that question.

"I don't know. That experience kind of tainted the thought of marriage for me." I admitted. I had sworn to never get married again, but now I was rethinking that.

"Do you ever want to get married one day?" I asked him. We had never talked about such things as our relationship was still new and we were still learning things about each other.

"Are you asking?" JC winked at me. I hit his arm playfully and rolled my eyes.

"I'm asking in general. I'm not proposing to you, silly."

"I know. I know." He laughed and then his demeanor changed from a playful one to a serious one. "I absolutely want to be married one day. I want a wife, kids, the whole thing."

The look on his face melted my soul. I knew right then and there that I wanted those same exact things. I was just scared. Would I have those things with JC? I didn't know. Only time would tell.

"That's beautiful, Jace. You deserve all of that and more."

"So do you, honey. " JC kissed me tenderly on the lips then leaned back into his seat and closed his eyes, his cue that he was about to take a nap. How the hell can he nap on this airplane? I turned and looked out my window and sighed. I felt like my relationship with JC had just turned a new page after today.

--

"Welcome to Florida, honey!" JC exclaimed as we walked out of the airport rolling our luggage behind us. He threw his head back and breathed in deeply taking it all in. I could tell he loved it here. I couldn't blame him. It was beautiful. I was excited to see much more of this beautiful place.

We got in the car that JC had rented for us this week and headed towards his family home. Remember me saying that I wasn't nervous to meet his family? Well, that just changed. I was petrified.

JC looked over at me as I looked out the window biting my lip. "Baby, its going to be fine. I promise. You're amazing and they will see that the second they lay eyes on you."

I looked at him and smiled. "Are you sure about that?"

"Positive. Now, tell me what did you get me for Christmas? I'm dying to know."

"Josh, I'm not telling you what I got you for Christmas! You can wait until tomorrow." I shook my head. He was just like a kid fishing for hints about his present. Speaking of his present, I stressed about what to get him for weeks. What do you get JC Chasez for Christmas? The man has everything he wants and if he doesn't have it, then he can buy it. Bianca gave me a great idea about what to give him and I couldn't wait to see his reaction.

"Okay, fine! I will ask you again later." He teased. "Want to know what I got you?"

"No! I want to be surprised."

"Fair enough."

We drove for about 30 minutes before I started to notice a nice subdivision of houses near a large lake. JC pulled up to a pretty tan house with white shutters and a plethora of large cypress trees in the front yard. He parked in the driveway and shut the engine off. He looked at me and said "We're here, Layla. Are you ready?"

"Ready as I'll ever be."

"Mom! Dad! I'm home!" JC yelled from the doorway the second we stepped foot into his parent's home. The smell of food was in the air, Christmas decorations adorned the foyer. JC's mother, Karen appeared first as she scurried out of the kitchen and towards us.

"Joshua! I'm so glad you're here! Layla, its so nice to finally meet you. We've heard so much about you." Karen surprised me by pulling me in for a hug and immediately I felt at ease in her presence.

"Nice to meet you too, Mrs. Chasez."

"Please call me, Karen. She is really a beauty, Joshua!" Karen gushed as we pulled apart from our hug and she gave me a once over. I blushed at the compliment.

"She is, Mom." JC beamed as he grabbed my waist and pulled me to his side.

JC's father, Roy emerged from the living room and met us in the foyer. "Hey son!" They hugged briefly then Roy patted JC on the back. "This must be the woman you're always bragging to us about!  Its a pleasure to meet you, Layla."

I grinned nervously as Roy pulled me in for a hug as well. I was taken aback by them saying JC had talked about me so much. I was unaware that he had told them so much about me and to be honest, it made me feel really good.

"I'm so glad I have finally been able to meet you both." I said.

"Joshua, why don't you show Layla around and get settled in your room. I'm sure the flight was exhausting." Karen stated as she headed back to the kitchen.

JC agreed and we grabbed our luggage. I followed JC down the hallway and up a flight of stairs until we reached his room. Part of me expected to see a childhood-like room since this was his parent's home, but JC's room was much like his back in LA. Spacious and simple with a bed, dark wood furniture and a couple decorative wall paintings that I'm sure Karen picked out.

"You sure your parents are okay with us sleeping together in their home?" I asked as I set my bags down on the floor and looked around the room.

"Baby, we're both in our 30's. What are they really going to say? They're cool about it. I promise."

"Okay. I guess so, but don't get any ideas. No sex here."

"We're here for a little over a week, and you think we won't have sex?" JC scoffed.

"I mean... yeah. What if they heard us?" The thought passed through my mind and I was mortified just thinking about it.

"My parents' bedroom is downstairs on the far end of the house and they both are sound sleepers. We are good, baby. You can moan and say my name as loud as you want." JC teased as he came behind me and circled his arms around my waist. He settled his face in the crook of my neck and began kissing me lightly.

"Jace, you're crazy. I'm still not doing it." I smiled as I turned my body to face his and placed my arms around his neck.

"Wanna bet?" He asked in a low voice that made my knees go weak. I had a feeling I would lose that bet.

--

JC and I took a nap for about an hour before we headed back downstairs to be a part of the Christmas Eve festivities. His brother, Tyler, and sister, Heather both had showed up. Our meetings went much like mine did with Karen and Roy. This is definitely a family of huggers. I wasn't complaining. It made me feel really welcome.

Karen had spent most of her day in the kitchen cooking dishes for the Christmas dinner tomorrow. JC had told me that Christmas dinner in his house was a big deal. They all dressed up, sat around a big table, and ate a whole feast basically. Afterward, they would drink and watch a Christmas movie of someone's choosing. JC said it was Tyler's choice this year and he already predicted that he would choose Home Alone.

I decided to join Karen and Heather in the kitchen while JC, Tyler and Roy sat outside drinking beers and doing guy stuff.

"Joshua tells me you're a great cook, Layla." Karen said as she began pulling out ingredients to cook some of the food for the dinner.

"I do enjoy cooking. Lucky for JC, since he burns water." I joked. Heather and Karen laughed and nodded in agreement.

"Maybe you can teach him a thing or two. To be honest though, I think he's content not knowing how to cook so he doesn't have to do it." Heather chimed in.

"For sure. He's so spoiled." I agreed.

"Tonight, we're making the sides: green beans, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese and the desserts: chocolate silk pie and peanut butter cookies. Tomorrow, I'll put the turkey in the oven and after that, we feast!" Karen said excitedly as she tightened her apron around her waist.

"That all sounds amazing. I'd love to help you all if that is okay with you. I could do the mashed potatoes." I offered.

"Sure, dear. I would love that." Karen placed the bag of potatoes beside me. I washed my hands then began peeling the potatoes.

"Here, Layla. I have another apron you can wear so you don't mess up your clothes." Karen said as she tied a bright pink apron around my waist.

"Thank you, Karen." I smiled as I continued peeling potatoes. I could get used to this. I already felt like part of the family. It was silly to think of all the worrying I had done about meeting them.

JC appeared in the kitchen and pulled out a beer from the fridge. He sauntered over to me and began observing my work.

"I like this domesticated side of you, honey. You're fitting right in here." He kissed me on the cheek quickly then popped open his beer.

"You've got a good one here, Josh. Better hold on to her."  Heather stated looking in our direction.

"Oh, I plan on it." JC said as he winked at me and exited the kitchen.

--

"I'm exhausted. We made so much food today." I said as I plopped down on the bed beside JC. He looked over at me and smiled through half-lidded eyes. He grabbed my hand and kissed it.

"I'm so glad you're here. This feels so right."

"I feel the same way, Jace. I really do. Thank you for bringing me here." I turned over to face him and placed my hand on his clothed chest.

"Thank you for agreeing to come. Thank you for being in my life." He said sincerely as he brushed a strand of hair out of my face. I leaned down and kissed him tenderly.

"Are you ready for bed?" He asked.

"I am, but I definitely need a shower after being on the plane, then getting messy in the kitchen."

"Can I join you?" He sat up suddenly wide awake. It's amazing how quickly that changed. I thought it over. A shower with JC was going to be very tempting, but we both needed to get cleaned up before bed. Both of us showering at the same time would mean we could get back to bed sooner. Okay, maybe it wasn't a bad idea.

"Fine, but no funny business. We're just washing up." I said sternly.

"Sure, babe." JC said jumping up and pulling me into the adjoining bathroom.

He turned on the water to let it warm up as we quickly shed our clothes. We stepped in the shower and pulled the sliding door shut behind us. JC stood under the water and wet his hair. I stood there in awe of his body. I had seen him naked so many times and it never ceased to amaze me. His perfectly sculpted arms, slender body, amazing hair, toned abs. Who was I kidding? I was not going to last a week without sexing this man.

I was not as slender as him. I had some curves, a soft belly, C cup breasts and a big ass (JC's favorite part), but he always looked at me as though my body was perfect in his eyes.

JC pulled me closer to him so that we could share the stream of water. Our bodies were flush against each other as we embraced silently. He pulled my hair out of the bun it was in and let my curls fall down. He then placed his hands in my hair and pulled my lips to his. His kisses started off tenderly then became more passionate and deep. His hands left my hair and traveled down my arms and settled on my hips. He pressed his arousal against me and I gasped. I wanted this.

He pulled away and pushed me back against the tiled wall. I gasped again at the feeling of the cold tile against my back. I got over it quickly as JC began to kiss and nip at neck while his hand traveled south down my body. He came in contact with my most sensitive spot and began rubbing in a circular motion. A quiet moan escaped my mouth.

"Josh, we're supposed to be showering." I muttered between gasps.

"Mmhmm. We are showering." He said as he continued. What a smart ass. He knew all along that this was going to happen. Silly me for thinking I could resist my naked boyfriend.

I felt that warm tingly feeling coming to the surface as my first orgasm took over me. "Fuck." I moaned right by his ear. Its like it woke up something inside him. He became desperate to have me. He lifted my leg and I felt him slam into me before I could even come down from my high.

"Shiiiiit." Jc hissed as he began a steady yet feverish pace. His hands found their way to my ass as he cupped both cheeks and nestled even deeper inside of me. I moaned louder and he pulled out of me completely and turned me around placing both of my hands against the tile. I felt him enter me from behind and I lost all inhibitions. I was thankful for this running water that was drowning out the sounds of our moans and skin contacting skin.

JC's hands gripped my hips as he thrusted into me repeatedly. I knew that I wasn't going to last long. "Jace, baby."

"Yes baby. Let go with me." He answered. He slammed into me one final time before he released. I followed right behind as my legs almost gave out. He held me tightly around my waist and turned me around to face him. He kissed me several more times through unsteady breaths.

"Let's get washed up, mama."

Looks like I lost that bet, but I wasn't upset about that at all.

I awoke the next morning snuggled up under JC's arms. The room was still dark but a stream of light was peaking through a break in the curtains. I pushed back the duvet and turned to face him. He was sound asleep and looked peaceful. I pushed a strand of his hair out of his face. His hair was getting longer and curlier by the day and I loved it. I continued to watch him sleep for a couple of minutes just appreciating the fact that this beautiful man was mine.

"Are you going to keep staring at me?" He spoke up and broke my trance.

"You were awake?" I asked.

He opened his eyes lazily and smiled at me. "For a few seconds, yes. Merry Christmas, baby."

"Merry Christmas, Jace." I kissed him sweetly then sat up in the bed and adjusted my tank top. "So, do you want your present?"

"Of course I do. Are we exchanging them now or with the rest of the family?"

"I'd prefer to give you mine privately if that's okay."

"Fine by me. You go first." JC said sitting up the bed and pushing his hair out of his face. He grabbed his t-shirt off the nightstand and pulled it over his head.

I hopped out of bed and rummaged through my suitcase for the present. "You get one of them now. And one later tonight."

I grabbed the small square item that was wrapped neatly in a festive Christmas paper and handed it to him. He handled it, shook it and looked perplexed.

"Open it!" I exclaimed nervously. I really hoped that he liked it. It wasn't anything he would find in a store or anything that was pricey, but it was something that was meaningful.

JC ripped open the gift to discover a CD in a case. On the case were the words "Our Playlist".

"Did you make this?" He asked as he got out of bed to put the disc in his stereo.

"Yes. I wanted something that was thoughtful, so I made a playlist of songs that remind me of us. I hope it isn't too corny." I said shyly.

"No, not at all. Thank you, Layla." JC pressed play as the playlist began to play and soft music filled the room. 'By Your Side' By Sade was the first song.

You think I'd leave your side baby

You know me better than that

You think I'd leave you down when you're down on your knees

I wouldn't do that

I'll tell you you're right when you want

And if only you could see into me

Oh when you're cold I'll be there

Hold you tight to me

Oh when you're low

I'll be there

By your side baby

JC gently pulled me towards him as we began to sway to the music. I laid my head on his chest and listened to him hum along to the music.

The next song that played was "Selfish" By NSYNC. I knew this one would get a reaction. He pulled back and looked at me curiously. "You know this song?"

"Yes, I do and I love the lyrics. Now hush and listen unless you're going to sing to me." I said taking my place back on his chest.

"Baby, I know the lyrics. I wrote them." He laughed as he hugged my hips tighter.

Baby I would take good care of you

No matter what it is you're going through

I'll be there for you when you're in need

Baby believe in me

If love was a crime

Then punish me I would die for you

Cause I don't want to live without you

Oh what can I do?

He began to sing his verse softly as we continued to slow dance in his room. His voice was perfect even though he had just woken up. I loved to hear him sing. I was soaking up every note.

When that song ended, "Truly, Madly, Deeply" by Savage Garden played and I looked up and kissed him. "The first song we ever danced to. In my kitchen."

"I remember." He said. "This song is special to us."

We continued dancing until that song ended. I pulled away and turned the stereo off.

"We can listen to the rest later. I want my present now!" I said as I sat on the edge of the bed.

JC went to  his own luggage bag and pulled out a small bag and handed it to me. I began pulling tissue paper out and found a key at the bottom of the bag. "A key? What's this to?" I asked.

"My house." He smiled nervously as he raked his fingers through his hair.

"Ooooh, I have access to the Chasez residence now? You'll never get me to go home now." I joked.

"Actually, I want it to be your home. I want you to move in with me, Layla."

"Wait. What? Seriously, Jace?" I couldn't believe what I was hearing. JC wanted me to live with him? I owned my home in LA. It wasn't exactly an easy decision to just give that away. It would be a lengthy process to sell my home.

"I'm serious."

"But what about my house? I would have to sell it."

"Then, we will sell it. I know some awesome realtors." He grabbed my hands and pulled me up from the bed. "I really want this. I want to go to sleep with you every night and wake up with you every morning. I want to be with you all the time. I know its my home, but you can change anything you want in there. Redecorate every room for all I care. I just want you there. With me."

I looked at my hands in his and back up to those sincere blue eyes staring back at me eagerly awaiting an answer. For once, I wasn't letting my fears cloud my mind. I was going to take this leap of faith.

"Okay. I'll move in."

JC pulled me in for a tight hug then kissed me on the cheek. "Thank you. It's going to be great. Don't worry, okay?"

"Okay." I said convincing myself that it really would be alright.

--

We opened gifts with JC's family that morning and I was surprised that they had gotten me several gifts. I felt bad that I had not brought them gifts, but they assured me that they didn't care. JC also got me a beautiful green dress with a super low neckline that he said he wanted me to wear for something he had planned during our stay in Florida. In addition to that, he bought me a pair of black Christian Louboutin heels and a matching bag. I literally screamed when I opened it. I've told him numerous times since then that those gifts were entirely too expensive and he shouldn't have spent that much money on me. He assured me that I was worth it.

It was now time for the infamous Chasez Christmas Dinner. I had changed into a red long sleeve velvet dress and a pair of nude peep toe heels. I wore my hair naturally curly and down. JC wore a white button up shirt, black slacks and a pair of black boots. He looked so hot and I had a hard time keeping my eyes off of him at dinner.

We all sat around the dining table, chatting and eating food. Karen was beaming and I could tell that she really enjoyed having her family together for the holidays. JC ate so much and I don't know how or where he stores all that food, but the boy can eat. I also ate way more that I would have liked to, but the food was amazing. Karen bragged about the potatoes I made.

After dinner, it was time to party. JC popped open a bottle of champagne and began filling everyone's glasses. JC cleared his throat and got everyone's attention as he began a toast.

"I'd like to say I'm so glad we are all together for this Christmas. It has been the best one yet. I also want you all to know that I asked Layla to move in with me and she said yes!"

Everyone began to cheer excitedly and I felt overcome with excitement myself knowing that JC's entire family was happy for us.

"Here's to new beginnings!" JC said as he raised his glass in the air. Everyone raised their glasses as well then took a sip of their champagne.

We drank and danced and had a great time. As the night winded down, everyone changed into more comfy clothes and met in the family room to watch the traditional Chasez Christmas family movie. As JC predicted, Tyler chose Home Alone.

About 30 minutes into the movie, I felt myself nodding off. JC looked at me and looked just as sleepy as I was. "Want to call it a night?" He asked.

"I don't want to ruin the family tradition." I said.

"It's been a long day. Plus, everyone else looks wiped out too. Dad has been sleep since the second we pressed play." He laughed. I giggled as I glanced over at Roy who was knocked out in a recliner with his mouth wide open.

JC stood up and told everyone goodnight, then we headed up the stairs to his room.

"I thought you had one more present for me." He reminded me as he shut the door behind us.

"I do. I almost forgot." I grabbed a bag out of my luggage and walked towards the bathroom. "I'll be right back."

The other gift was a sexy, red lingerie set. The top was a sheer lace material that left little to the imagination. There was also a matching red thong that went with it. I had never done anything like this before with JC, so I was excited yet nervous. I changed into the set and looked at myself in the mirror before I emerged from the bathroom.

JC was laying on the bed on top of the duvet. He glanced in my direction and his eyes widened when he saw me. He sat up quickly and sat on the edge of the bed as I walked towards him.

"Wow. This is for me? You look fucking amazing, baby." He grinned as I stood before him.

"Yep, all for you. And thank you."

"And you were planning on not having sex here? Why did you pack lingerie then?" He asked curiously.

"I wasn't entirely convinced that we wouldn't have sex." I confessed. "I knew I couldn't resist you." I climbed onto his lap and straddled him and placed my arms around his neck.

"I'm the one that has trouble resisting you." He said breathily as his hands went to my hips.

"Oh really? Show me." I said as I pressed my lips to his. He began to kiss me slowly and occasionally tugging on my bottom lip with his teeth.

"I think I can do that." JC pulled the straps of my top down and exposed my breasts. He gently took one nipple in his mouth and rolled his tongue in circular motions that drove me crazy. I titled my head back and moaned at the contact. After that, he switched to the other side and showed that one just as much attention as the other. His lips then found my mouth again and he kissed me with a passion I had not seen from him before. He grabbed my ass and picked me up with ease as he stood up from the bed, then placed me gently on my back on top of the bed. He pulled my top off of me, and slid my thong down and tossed it on the floor. He quickly shed his t-shirt and shorts.

He looked at my naked body intently and before I could get self conscious under his gaze, he began to place light kisses on my pelvic bone. He spread my thighs and made space for his head to fit in between as he immediately dove between my legs. He massaged my clit slowly and softly with his tongue. I leaned up to watch him work so erotically on my sensitive core. The sight alone was enough to make me burst. JC looked up from his spot between my legs and made eye contact with me. I felt that first wave hit me and I tried to keep my eyes open to focus on him.

Satisfied with his work, he came back up to me and began to kiss me again as he settled on top of me, chest to chest. He stopped kissing and stared at me running a finger down my cheek.

"Layla?" He asked, his face mere centimeters from my own.

"Yeah?" I answered meeting his gaze.

"I want to make love to you."

My breath hitched at those words. We had never used those words before. I knew from the moment we started tonight that things seemed differently. Our sex was always hot and sort of rushed like we had to have each other right then and there. Now, it felt like we had all the time in the world to explore each other and take our time loving on each other.

"I want that too." I said shakily.

JC responded by sensually kissing me and slowly inching his member into me until he filled me up completely. We both let out a sigh of contentment. He paused to look at me once again and said "You are so beautiful. I just want to show you that everyday."

I tried my best to not be overcome with emotion, but he was being so loving and sweet. I sniffled and felt tears well in my eyes. He placed a hand on the side of my face and began a slow, steady pace. We just stared at each other for as long as we could, reveling in the look of passion in each other's eyes. He never changed his pace and I met each thrust with the same rhythm.

I squeezed my eyes shut as I felt that tingly, hot bolt of electricity flow through my body as I cried out his name. "Josh."

"Yeah, baby. Let it go. Come for me." He responded as he picked up his pace and intensity nearing his own release. He shuddered and I felt the warmth flood into me. 
He laid on top of me as we attempted to catch our breaths. After a few minutes, he raised his head up and kissed me softy, our bodies still connected.

"I love you." He said running his fingers through my hair that was now splayed across the pillow.

"I love you too." I said.

And I really did.

JC and I spent the next several days exploring around Orlando and spending time with his family. In this short time, I had grown close with his family, specifically Karen and Heather. It felt really nice to have another maternal figure to bond with. Karen already treated me like a daughter. Heather and I had already had a nightly routine of wine and gossip in the kitchen. I can't explain how good it felt to fit in with his family. 

It was New Years Eve and we were preparing for another party at the Chasez's. JC had invited his bandmates Chris and Justin. I had an internal freak out when JC told me Justin Timberlake was coming. That is one fine man, but I digress. 

Remember that beautiful green dress JC gifted me for Christmas? It was for this occasion. I had just finished changing into it and checking myself out in the mirror. The plunging neckline was a bit revealing and I felt a tad insecure in it. I mean, I didn't want a nip slip in front of JC's friends and family. 

I straightened my hair, did a smoky eye, and applied a bold red lipstick to finish off my look. I put on the Louboutin's that JC got for me as well. I opened the door to the bathroom and heard JC gasp as he looked at me. 

"Wow, mama. You look phenomenal. I knew that dress would look perfect on you." He complimented. He took my hand and made me twirl around before he pulled me in close for a hug. 

"Thank you, Josh. You always know the right things to say to make me feel comfortable." 

"You ready to go turn some heads in that dress?" He winked at me and led me out of our room towards the party. 


--

"Girl, you are killin' it in this dress." Heather complimented as we sipped our champagne. We were seated outside on the patio where most of the party goers were. JC was mingling and doing his usual JC things at a party, conversing with everyone. 

"Thank you. I feel much better in it now that you gave me some boob tape." I laughed.

"I guess my brother didn't think about that when he bought this dress for you. Actually, he probably wished for a nip slip or two." 

"Oh, I'm sure of that." 

"Look who's finally arrived. Fashionably late. Mr. Timberlake, himself." Heather stated and nodded towards the house as Justin was walking out of the doors leading to the terrace.

I looked up and there he was in all his popstar glory. I must have been gawking, because Heather waved a hand in my face. 

"You must be a victim of the Timberlake effect too, huh? Me too, girl, but don't worry, your secret is safe with me. We can always look." She joked and looked back in his direction. 

"He's cute, but he's not Jace." I spoke up. I can't believe I just openly gawked at my boyfriend's best friend at said boyfriend's NYE party.

Heather smiled as she stood and smoothed out her dress. "I'm going to refill my glass. Want me to fill yours too?"

"Sure." I handed her my glass and watched her walk away. I scanned the yard for JC and found him talking with a small group and decided to go over.

We locked eyes as I was walking towards him and he smiled. He grabbed my hand once I was beside him and introduced me to the group of friends.  One of which was, Chris Kirkpatrick. 

"This must be Layla. I can't believe you went for this guy. You're a 10 and he's about a 2. Mayyybe a 2 and a  half." Chris joked. So, everything I heard was true. He was the jokester of the group. 

JC threw his head back and laughed. "Thanks a lot for that amazing rating, Chris. At least I am 2 and a half points more than you."

I snickered. These two could go back and forth all night if they wanted to. 

"Thank you, Chris. Nice to meet you." I interjected. 

"Likewise. So, are you going to convince this guy to get back in the studio and put some music out? Talent like this shouldn't go to waste." Chris said seriously. 

JC shook his head and waved a hand in the air. "Don't start, Chris. I do not want to talk about my music tonight."

"Come on! It's about to be a new year. New year, new music!"

I looked at JC intently. He actually seemed like he was thinking about it. That was exciting to me. I could tell music meant so much to him. Plus, if he was writing his own music, that would mean less time writing for Karly, right? Suddenly, I was on board with this music thing.

"I think he has the best voice I have ever heard in my life. I think it should be shared with the world. They obviously love it. So, why not give them what they want?" I kissed him on the cheek and watched him blush slightly.

"You're supposed to be on my side, babe! Don't let Kirkpatrick here persuade you." He laughed and he squeezed my hand. 

"I'm always on your side, baby." 

"Oh, gag me. You guys are disgustingly sweet. I'm going to get a drink." Chris pointed at his mouth and stuck out his tongue as if he was disgusted.  He walked away at the sound of our laughter. 

"C!! What's up, my man?" My head whipped in the direction of the voice coming from behind us. It was him.

JC turned around and reached out to hug his friend. "What's up, T! It's about time you made it here. I didn't think you would make it before midnight."

"Yeah, yeah. You know me. I gotta make my entrance." Justin joked before eyeing me. I looked down subconsciously. I felt his eyes traveling down my frame as well.

"Justin, this is my girlfriend, Layla." JC introduced.

"Layla. Hello. It's a pleasure to meet you." Justin extended his hand to me for a handshake. Our hands connected and paused for a bit as I felt the heat radiate between our hands. I took my hand from his and placed it back at my side nervously. 

"Nice to meet you, Justin." 

The two men began to chat and catch up on their lives, talking about music, love lives, family, and everything in between. I sat back admiring their friendship and stole a couple of glances at Justin. This seemed so wrong. What am I doing? 

Thankfully, Heather returned with our champagne before I could think anymore unwanted thoughts. "Let's go dance, girl!" She handed me my champagne glass in one hand and pulled me away with the other. 

-- 

The night continued with more dancing, drinking and mingling. I stepped away for a few minutes to use the restroom before the countdown to midnight. I ran into Justin on my way out. Literally ran right into him. Why do I always have this problem?

"Sorry. I have a tendency to always run into people. Like it happens daily." I blushed.

Justin smiled at me and I swore it felt really hot in there all of a sudden. "It's cool. I wasn't really looking where I was going either so we're both to blame."

We stood there awkwardly outside of the bathroom for a few more seconds before Justin cleared his throat. "So, how did you meet C?"

"We met at a club one night, got drunk apparently and woke up the next morning with him in my bed. Oh my gosh, what a terrible story. I'm going to have to come up with a better one. Thank God his parents never asked me how we met." 

Justin laughed and I mean, he was cracking up. "Oh wow, girl, I was not expecting that answer. But hey, I get it. It happens. All that matters now is if you're happy."

"I am. We are." 

Justin looked at me intently and licked his lips. "Good. That's great. You're really beautiful. Jace got a good one." 

Now I was focused on his lips. Fuck. And he just told me I was beautiful. I had to get out of here. 

"Thank you. I'm going to head back out for the countdown. You coming out?" I asked changing the subject.

"Yeah, sure. Let's go." Justin led the way back out to the terrace. JC looked in our direction curiously as we walked out together and parted ways. 

I walked up to JC and held his hands in mine. "You ready for the new year, baby?"

He looked down at me and kissed my forehead. "Only if its with you."

--

"5.....4......3....2....1... HAPPY NEW YEAR!"   

Everyone began cheering and holding their cups in the air. JC pulled me in for our first kiss of the New Year. I was a little taken aback by how deep it was considering we were surrounded by so many people, but I didn't care. Fireworks went off around us across the lake that was behind JC's parent's home. I pulled back breathlessly and stared into those blue eyes of his.

"Happy New Year, baby. I love you." He said affectionately.

"Happy New Year, Jace. I love you too." I pulled him back in for a hug and locked my arms around the back of his neck. I looked over his shoulder and saw Justin a few feet away.

Looking at us.

It was finally time to leave Florida and make the trip back to LA. A part of me was sad to leave JC's family, but I was also excited to get back to LA to see Bianca and get back to work. The impending move to JC's house was also on my mind and while I was excited about it, I was also nervous about this huge step in our relationship.

We hadn't set a date on when exactly I would move in, but I knew it was something JC wanted to do soon.

Another thing that was plaguing my mind was the weird interactions with Justin at the party. Whatever this weird attraction between us was, I decided that I was not going to feed into it.  I had not mentioned it to JC because I didn't want to bring it up at the party and we didn't have a lot of alone time to discuss it. Was it all in my head? I questioned if I was just overthinking Justin's friendly demeanor or if he actually was flirting with me. Just thinking about it made me feel guilty. I had promised JC that we would have no more secrets so I felt this was something I was going to have to mention. Especially since he and Justin made plans to get in the studio together back in LA.

We settled in on our flight and I took deep breaths trying to fight off my flying anxiety. JC looked over at me and raised his eyebrow. "You okay over there, honey?"

"No." I nervously laughed. "You know I hate flying."

"I know. We'll be home before you know it." He squeezed my hand as I braced myself for takeoff.

"Did you have a good time?"

"I had a blast, Jace. I can't wait to come back. I've already made plans to have a spa date with your mom and Heather when we come back to visit." I noticed the warm smile on his face. He loved how much his family and I got along. And he also loved that he was right about them liking me.

"Sounds fun. Maybe mom and Heather can come out to LA to see us in a few months. Did you like Chris and Justin?"

My head snapped back in his direction at the mention of Justin. I played it off as I ran my fingers through my hair. "They were really nice. Chris is hilarious."

"And Justin?"

"What about Justin?" I asked biting my lip nervously.

"Did you like him?"

"Speaking of Justin, there were a couple of weird interactions with him. I didn't really know how to bring it up, but I guess since we are talking about him.. "

"Weird like how?" The warm smile was gone and replaced with a look of confusion.

"I just felt like he was kind of flirting with me. There was some weird tension there, but I'm sure its nothing to worry about." I assured him or more so assured myself.

JC rested his head on the back of his seat and sighed. "I swear T always does this. It's like some weird game to see if he can steal my girlfriends or something."

"Wow, not a nice game with play with your best friend." So great, Justin was just trying to add me to his list of JC's girlfriends that he was trying to get with.

"I know, but that's how its been since I've known him. Plus, you are his type."

"His type?" I looked nothing like any of his public girlfriends. Blonde hair? Nope. Skinny body? Nope.

"Justin loves long hair and a nice ass." JC said matter-of-factly. "You're biracial and he's always had an attraction for women of color, though has never publicly dated one. He had a huge crush on Beyonce back in our NSYNC days." JC laughed.

"Really? I mean, it's Beyonce. Who doesn't have a crush on her?" I joked. Knowing I was "Justin's type" was not exactly comforting to hear, because I anticipated there would be more tension-filled interactions and flirting any time I would see him. I was not going to give in to the Timberlake charm though. I had the Chasez charm and that was all I needed in my life. I put it out of mind and changed the subject.

"We didn't get to talk much about it, but when do you want me to start moving in?"

JC kissed my hand before he leaned back and closed his eyes for his impending nap. "As soon as we land."

---

I had convinced JC that I needed to stay in my house for one more night before I started the move. Plus, I needed to pack. More importantly, I needed to see my best friend to fill her in on all the events of the last couple of weeks.

When JC and I landed in LA, he had his manager send a car to pick us up. I was dropped off at my home first. JC helped me get my luggage into my house before kissing me, promising to call me later and heading out the door.

I looked around at my cozy little home and became a little emotional. I felt both sad and excited to leave this home. This was my first home that I had purchased myself, but it was filled with many bad memories and pain. It was a home I shared with someone who was no longer a part of my life. I felt this was the final thread that connected me to my ex, Austin. It was time to cut that. I was excited to live with JC and begin something that could hopefully lead to a promising future with him.

I quickly dialed my best friend's number. I was literally bursting with information.

"Hello stranger!" She answered.

"I know. I know. I haven't had a lot of time to call. I'm a horrible friend."

"No worries, babe. Are you back in town?"

"Yes I am, and we most definitely need a girls night ASAP. Can you come tonight?" If this was going to be my last night in this house, we HAD to have girls night tonight.

"I can. I'll grab us some pizzas and head over in about an hour!" Bianca said excitedly.

"Perfect. See you soon." I wondered if Bianca was going to be supportive of this next step. She always had my best interest in mind and she would be completely honest with me if she thought this was a terrible idea.

I hung up and decided to take a quick nap before she arrived.

--

An hour and a half later, Bianca and I were seated in my living room with a large pepperoni pizza and a bottle of wine on my coffee table. I grabbed my second slice and closed my eyes in delight as I took a huge bite.

"This is SO good. I really need to slow down on this. It's going to go straight to my thighs."

"Girl, please. You look amazing. I don't think JC is complaining about those thighs." Bianca rolled her eyes.

I shrugged and continued to eat my pizza. I mean, she wasn't wrong. He did tell me often how much he loved my body, but I still had insecurities. My boyfriend was JC Chasez. He could have any of these models or A-list celebrities, but he was with me. Sometimes I questioned why. I shook the thoughts out of my head and simply agreed.

"So, how was your trip to Florida?" Bianca asked popping open the bottle of wine and filling our two glasses.

I smiled wide. "It was amazing. His family was so nice. I cooked with his mom and sister. It was the sweetest thing."

"Sounds like you're a part of the family! Was it weird staying at his parent's house?"

"Just when we were intimate. It was weird then. I always worried someone was going to hear us or walk in." I laughed.

Bianca's mouth dropped and she playfully pushed me. "Oh I so knew you were going to do it! What happened to that whole "I'll never do that in his parent's house" spiel you gave me?" She pretended to mock me.

"He's hard to resist. Sue me." I giggled shrugging again.

"I bet. So, did he like his gift?" She inquired. She was the one who gave me the idea to make the playlist. I owed her for the great idea, because he seemed to really love it.

"He loved it. Speaking of gifts, he gave me a key.."

"A key to what?"

"His house. He wants me to move in with him." I braced myself for her reaction. She was silent for a couple of seconds as she seemed to really take it in.

"Are you ready for that?" She asked sincerely.

"I'm not sure. I'm with him so much that it kind of makes sense. Plus, I feel a fresh start away from this home with all the bad memories would be good for me. On the other hand, is it too soon? What if we hate each other?" I questioned. I wanted her honest opinion and although I had already told JC 'yes' to moving in, I think he would be understanding if I said I wasn't ready yet.

"If fear is the only reason you are questioning it, then I say go for it. You obviously love each other and are together all the time anyway. Don't let fear keep you from doing something that can make your relationship flourish. I want you to be happy and JC absolutely makes you happy. You are both adults in your 30's, not some young kids who are rushing to live together. You know what you're doing and I think the end goal for both of you is something long term."

I looked at my best friend who was getting emotional out of her love for me. She genuinely wanted me to be happy and that's all I could ever ask for in a friend. She always helped me to put things in perspective. She was right. I was just afraid because of my past relationships. JC was nothing like my ex. He has shown me nothing but love, respect and honesty.

"So, when are you moving in?" Bianca asked as she quickly wiped away a single tear that had fell from her eye.

I looked at her and grinned.

"Tomorrow."

*THREE WEEKS LATER*

I had finally settled in at JC's home - or should I say OUR home! The day after girl's night with Bianca I had awoken to movers knocking at my door. JC had hired some movers to come pack AND move my belongings. We decided any extra furniture would be donated to local shelters. All of the rest of my stuff was packed and moved by the end of the day. It was the least stressful move I had ever made.

Thus far, living with JC was everything I ever dreamed it would be. I get to live in this amazing house and get to be with the man I love everyday! We no longer have to schedule time together. He's at home waiting for me when I get home from work.

Speaking of work, it was flu season and we had been swamped with patients and very short staffed. It was really starting to take a toll on me, but I was determined to tough it out and keep my job. I didn't want to feel like I was mooching off of JC.

My alarm went off at 5:30 am and I groggily made my way out of bed and to the bathroom to prepare for work. JC didn't budge. That guy can sleep through anything.

I quickly showered and brushed my teeth. I put on my favorite pair of scrubs, pulled my hair back into a low ponytail and opted for no makeup today. I just wanted to get my shift over with and come back home and relax. I kissed JC on his forehead and told him goodbye. He mumbled something and rolled back over. I quietly laughed to myself as I made my way downstairs. I was making myself some coffee to pour into my travel mug when I heard movement close by.

"Jace?" I called out confused. I just left him upstairs and he was dead asleep. I panicked briefly before I saw Justin walk into the kitchen from the living room.

"Holy shit. You scared me." I said as I breathed out a sigh of relief. At least it wasn't a burglar, but why is Justin here at 6am?

"Sorry. I smelled coffee so I thought I would come have some too." He chuckled as he poured himself a cup from the pot I had just brewed.

"Why are you here?" I asked, still somewhat confused.

"Jace and I were in his studio late last night so I decided to crash here."  He said eyeing me as he took a sip of his coffee.

I had went to bed fairly early the night before, so honestly I had no clue JC was even in the studio.

"I see. Well you're up pretty early. JC won't be up for hours."

"Oh, I know. Probably until noon. Do you have time to sit and have your coffee with me?" He asked innocently. I had a few minutes to spare since I didn't do any makeup this morning. Then I realized I was standing here barefaced while Justin was looking at me. Now I was wishing I had applied a little bit of mascara or something!

"Um, sure. I have a few minutes." I took a seat at the kitchen island and watched as Justin sat beside me.

"Did C tell you about my birthday party? Its this weekend and you guys HAVE to come. You're going to be there, right?" He asked those blue eyes staring straight into mine.

JC had mentioned Justin's birthday was approaching and I was excited to go. My plan to avoid Justin Timberlake had not gone as I thought it would so, I figured if he was going to be around, we might as well be friends, right?

"Yeah, we will be there." I answered smiling. I mentally noted that I needed to find something to wear to this party.

Justin and I talked for a few more minutes before I had to leave. He told me more about his upcoming party and who all he had invited. It was a nice and friendly conversation and a great start to my day. I wished Jace could wake up early sometimes to have coffee with me before work, but I knew he just wasn't a morning person.

"Have a great day at work, Layla." Justin stated as I picked up my work bag and headed out the door.

"Thanks, Justin. Bye."

--

I returned home that evening and tiredly walked in the door. The house was dark and surprisingly quiet, but I knew JC was home. As expected, I found him in the studio alone sitting at his piano. He greeted me with a kiss as I sat down on the bench beside him.

"How was work, babe?" He asked.

"Awful. I'm so tired and my feet are killing me." I whined.

"I'm sorry. Want a foot rub?" He offered.

"That sounds like an amazing idea, but I'd like a shower first. I feel disgusting." After working for 12 hours straight, I couldn't wait to go wash off these germs.

"You're not disgusting, but okay, I'll give you one later." He got up from the bench and stood behind me as he began to rub my shoulders.

"So, I ran into Justin this morning in our kitchen. He said you guys were working late last night on something." I relaxed as he continued massaging.

"Yeah, we have been working on some new songs for me. I think I want to get back out there and make a new album. I think it's time."

"That's great, Jace. I can't wait to hear what you've been working on." I turned around and looked up at him as he smiled down at me. The look on his face was one that I never got tired of. He looked at me as if I was the most beautiful person he had ever laid eyes on, even though I was sitting here in dirty scrubs and no makeup.

"You'll hear it soon enough, mama. You inspired me to write some of these songs." JC grabbed my hands and pulled me up until we were face to face. He rested his hands on either sides of my hips as he stared me intently.

"I did?" I asked curiously. That was new for me. I had never been someone's inspiration for a song. I felt honored that JC thought so much about me that he wanted to write songs about me.

"You inspire me to do a lot of things, Layla. You make me want to make music. You make me want to be a better person. You make me want to be a better boyfriend." My heartrate quickened at his admission. Nobody has ever said such sweet things to me before.

I kissed him softly on the lips as I wrapped my arms around his neck. "You are already an amazing person and boyfriend. Don't ever doubt that."

"I want to make music for me, but also for you. I want to take care of you. You work so hard, Layla. You come home from work exhausted and I don't want that for you."

I leaned back slightly and looked at him curiously. "What do you mean? You want me to quit working, JC? I just moved in with you and I have my own career. I don't want to be a burden to you."

"No, I know you have a career, but I want you to know that you don't have to work yourself to death. I can take care of you. You know, if this album takes off, then I will mostly likely go on tour. I would want you to come with me."

I must be crazy, right? Because I have JC Chasez as my boyfriend who is telling me he wants me to quit my job so he can take care of me and I am not exactly thrilled to hear that. Any woman would take him up on that offer in a heartbeat. I had worked so hard for my career and I wasn't ready to give that up yet.

"It's a lot to think about, Josh. I am exhausted most days, but I get a lot of fulfillment out of it. Just like you do with your music. If you go on tour, we will figure things out then. In the meantime, I want to continue to work." I stated firmly. The thought of touring the world with JC did sound exciting though.

"Okay, baby. Whatever makes you happy." He obliged.

--

The night of Justin's party had arrived I had this feeling in the pit of my stomach that I just couldn't shake. I chalked it up to just being nervous. It's just a party and I will be there with JC so what's the big deal, right?

"Layla, babe. Are you almost done? We're going to be late!" JC spoke from our bedroom. He was sitting on the bed impatiently waiting for me to finish getting ready. I was in the adjoining bathroom putting the finishing touches on my makeup.

"Yes, I just need to put my shoes on after this." I said applying a coat of red matte lipstick to my lips. I had chosen to wear a simple black thigh length dress with sheer long sleeves. I paired it with gold jewelry and a pair of gold metallic heels. I left my dark hair naturally curly and it felt just past my shoulders. I exited the bathroom and sat on the bed beside JC as I put my heels on feeling JC's eyes glaring at me.

"You're lucky we're running late..." He said, his voice soft and husky.

"Oh, really?" I questioned standing up and smoothing my dress out as I took one final look in the full length mirror.

JC came up behind me, his strong hands gripped my hips and pulled my body back to his. He nestled his face into my neck and began placing soft kisses there. My body instantly reacted with desire.

"Yes, because I could have you right here. Right now. In front of this mirror." He spoke into my neck between kisses.

"Josh." I said breathlessly feeling the heat radiating between our bodies. The last thing on my mind in this moment was the party.

He spun me around until we were face to face and attached his lips to mine in a passionate kiss. I was thankful that my lipstick was 100% "kiss proof" because he was ravaging my lips. He pulled back and licked his lips.

"We'll finish this later. Let's go." He grinned, knowing he had just ignited a fire in me.

"You're such a tease, Chasez." 
--

I swear I had never been around this many celebrities at one time. I had enjoyed some of the perks of JC's fame, but this was a whole other level. We arrived at the club and walked down a red carpet that was full of paparazzi that were snapping pictures and yelling JC's name. JC tended to lay low and successfully avoid the paps most of the time, but today they were out full force for Justin's party.

I panicked slightly knowing that tomorrow my face would be plastered on the internet and that our relationship would now be known around the world. I hadn't thought about this aspect of our relationship yet.

I looked around the club from our spot in VIP and noticed Timbland and Jay-Z sitting on the other side of the room conversing with Justin. Shit, this is crazy. I was actually a little star-struck.

The drinks were flowing in VIP. Justin had ordered shots of Ciroc for everyone and I was already getting a nice buzz as I also casually sipped my cocktail. JC finished off his beer and stood up and pulled me up with him.

"Let's go dance, baby." He pulled me onto the dance floor as a new song started.

I put you in the beach house
Right on the edge of Costa Rica
Put one of em lil' flowers in your hair have you looking like a fly mamacita (Fuego)
Cause you look so good
You make me wanna spend it all on ya
Get up out this club
Slide with ya boy
We can do what you wanna, Yeah

We danced, my back to JC's chest and his hands rested on my hips. We grinded sensually to the song while I continued to sip my drink listening to JC occasionally sing along to the song.

The song ended and JC told me he was going to get us another round of drinks. I nodded as I continued to dance by myself not wanting to leave the dance floor just yet.

A few moments later, I felt a hand on my hip again and assumed JC was back.

"Hey baby. That was quick." I said as I turned around to greet him, but it wasn't JC.

It was Justin.

"Hey baby to you, too." He grinned at me as he looked me up and down.

"Hey, Justin. Happy Birthday." I looked past him towards the bar in search of JC, but didn't see him.

"Thank you. Can I have this dance?" He asked. Surely, a dance would be okay, right? I couldn't gauge how many drinks Justin had, but he did seem to be loosened up and his eyes were glassy. I wasn't exactly sober myself, but a dance seemed harmless.

"Sure." I smiled. We began dancing as the next song started to play.

"Ohhh this is my shit, girl!" Justin exclaimed putting his hands up in the air as Beautiful by Pharrell & Snoop Dogg blared through the club.

Beautiful, I just want you to know
You're my favorite girl
(Yeah, oh yeah, there's something about you)

I giggled as Justin sang the song loudly grabbing me by the waist and pulling me closer to his body. He navy eyes stared into mine as he sung and moved our bodies together. He was an amazing dancer and I was having a blast. He spun me around so that my back was to him. I got lost in the song and our movements and moved closer as we danced.

The song ended too soon. Justin leaned down until his lips were touching my ear and said "Thank you, beautiful." My body shivered at the subtle contact. I turned around to respond and he was walking away. I stood there stunned for a few seconds wondering if anyone noticed our exchange.

JC returned a few minutes later with our drinks. "You're still out here? You're just a little dancing queen tonight, huh?" He joked handing me my drink.

I ran my hand through my hair and fanned my myself. "Guess so. I'm a little hot. Want to go sit down?"

"Sure. You do look a little flushed. Are you okay?" He asked concerned.

I was flushed, because what the fuck just happened. I know Justin is drunk, but there was no denying his attraction to me now. This cannot be happening. It just can't. I can't let him ruin what JC and I have.

I had to put a stop to this before it went any further.

The next few weeks consisted of many awkward encounters with Justin. He and JC were in the studio constantly working on JC's album which meant he was around ALL the time. I did my best to busy myself to avoid any interactions. I did well for awhile until one weekend when Jace was away doing promo in New York.

I was off that weekend and decided to stay in and relax. Working at the hospital had become more and more tiresome and I was exhausted every day. Even on my days off.

I had settled in the living room with a huge bowl of popcorn and a glass of wine, flipping through the channels for a nice chick flick when I heard a knock at the door. "Who is that?" I wondered aloud. It had to be someone with the gate code so I didn't panic.

I looked through the peephole and noticed Justin standing there. My eyes widened and I considered not answering, but realized Justin would know I was here since my car was outside.

I opened the door and was met with those piercing blue eyes and a goofy grin.

"Hey Justin." I greeted still standing in the doorway.

"Hey. Um, I know C's in New York, but I left my guitar in his studio and I was just coming to get it." He stated. How convenient, Timberlake.

"Okay." I moved aside and let him in. I closed the door and returned to my spot on the couch as he headed towards the studio.

Moments later, he appeared in the living room with his guitar in tow. He sat down on a loveseat and pretended to be engrossed in what I was watching.

"Is that all you needed?" I asked causing him to focus his attention on me.

"Oh, just thought you would want some company since Jace is gone." He smiled. Okay, now it was time to address the elephant in the room.

"Okay, Justin. What the hell is going on?" I turned to face his direction.

"What do you mean?" He asked pretending to be dumbfounded by my question.

"You know what I mean. The looks you give me, the kiss in the club on your birthday, you being here right now when conveniently JC is away."

Justin ran his hand over his buzz cut hair and sighed. "I know this is totally wrong, Layla. I do. But, I can't help to feel drawn to you. God, I just can't keep my eyes off of you when you're around."

I was rendered speechless at his confession. I stared at him my mouth agape, trying to formulate words.

"I know you probably think I'm a horrible friend for having feelings for my best friend's girl. I just can't help it. As for my birthday, the kiss was genuine but definitely fueled by some liquid courage." He laughed.

My suspicions had been confirmed, but I had not thought out how I was going to respond if they were true. I searched my brain for the right words to say.

"I don't know what to say." I spoke finally.

"Say that you feel the same way." He said matter-of-factly.

I absolutely can NOT say that. Did I feel the same way? There may be a mild attraction there, but nothing remotely close to how I felt for JC. Nothing that would make me jeopardize everything we had built together. Not to mention, who would want to be that girl who tore up a friendship between two guys who had known each other most of their lives? Not me! That was something I was 100% sure of.

"Justin, I appreciate you being honest with me. I am really flattered. I can't deny that I find you attractive, but I LOVE Josh. We have built a great relationship. This isn't some fling. I care so much about his feelings and I'm sorry, but whatever you feel for me has got to stop. Please." I held my breath as I waited for his response. It pained me to reject him, but I had to be honest.

Justin had a solemn look on his face as he stared down at his sneakered feet. For a minute or two, there was an awkward silence. Finally, he stood up and grabbed his guitar and exited the living room. I hesitated before I followed after him.

"Justin." He turned to look at me and the look on his face made me feel awful. Either he was really hurt, or he was a good actor.

"I'm sorry-" I started but was cut off as his lips crashed onto mine. I froze as I was taken aback. I came to my senses and pulled away aggressively.  "What the hell, Justin!"

"I know I can't have you and I will just have to accept that, Layla. Goodbye." He walked out the door as I stood there stunned.

--

"Honey, I'm home!" JC announced as he entered the home. I ran to him and jumped into his arms, wrapping my legs around his waist. His strong hands supported me easily as he nuzzled his face into my neck.

"I missed you, Jace."  Those two days felt like two months. I didn't know how I was going to survive if he went away any longer than that.

"Mmm I missed you even more, baby." He spoke into my neck, peppering it with little kisses, his stubble tickling me. I put my legs down so that I now stood in front of him, his hands never leaving my waist.

"How was New York?" I asked.

"It was fine. The usual promo stuff. I did a couple of shoots and had some radio interviews. That part was fine, but being without you was not." He planted an affectionate kiss on my forehead.

While JC was gone, I thought about whether or not I would mention the situation with Justin when he returned. After much consideration, I decided it was better left unsaid. For one, I didn't want to cause a riff between them and two, I didn't want to plant any suspicions in his head. I was firm on what I had said with Justin and I meant to stand by that. Part of me felt really guilty that Justin had kissed me, even though I had no part in it. It was nagging at me, but I decided it would be more harm to bring up so I kept it to myself.

"So, anymore thought about quitting so that you can travel with me?" He asked, breaking me from my thoughts. I sighed. I knew he wasn't going to let up on this topic.

"No, I haven't thought about it anymore." I said watching his shoulders slump in disappointment.

Truthfully, I had not given it much more thought lately, but in this moment, it was very tempting. I missed him so much while he was gone. My insecurities had me wondering what he was doing while he was away. Then, I thought how dare I even think that when his best friend decided to show up over here and KISS me.

"Promise me you'll think about it some more." He stared deep into my eyes searching for some sort of hope.

"I promise. I'll think about it."

--

Justin's visits had become more infrequent lately and I was thankful for that. JC's upcoming album was coming together and nearly finished and he was getting really excited about it. He was spending more and more time away doing promotion and photoshoots, and I was working so we had not spent a lot of time together. I was really happy for him, because he was doing something that he loved. But I was also a little worried about what that meant for us long term. I was feeling neglected already and he hadn't even dropped this new album yet or toured.

Valentine's Day was approaching so we had both cleared our schedules to spend some quality time together. JC had planned a nice date night for us. I was really excited and decided to go shopping for some new lingerie, dragging Bianca along with me. I didn't tell her about the Justin fiasco, because quite frankly, I wanted to forget about it. Plus, I was scared of what she would think.

I picked up a black lace teddy and held it up to my body. "What do you think about this one, B?"

Bianca scrunched up her face, clearly disapproving. "Ehh, no. For your first Valentine's Day together, you need something a bit more... revealing."

"Isn't all lingerie revealing?" I laughed putting the set back and continuing to browse around the store.

"True, but you need something like this." She held up a lingerie set with a pair of crotchless panties. "You don't even have to take this one off to have sex."

"Seriously? Crotchless panties? What's the point?" I scoffed.

Bianca rolled her eyes. "I told you. The point is you don't have to take them off."

"While that's convenient, I want something that JC will rip off of me. I want him to tear it off of my body and ravage me." I said biting my bottom lip just thinking about it.

"So, we are shopping for something that he is going to destroy? What a waste of money! And you know JC likes to save his money." She argued. She wasn't wrong about that fact, but I was purchasing this on my own. It was going to be a complete surprise.

"Are you calling my man a cheapskate?" I joked. We looked at each other and burst into laughter. We sobered up from our laughing fit and continued to browse the store. I finally saw something that caught my eye.

I held up the light pink sheer mesh bra and panty set in awe. It was girly, yet romantic and still sexy. This was the one.

"Bianca, this is it. I think this is perfect." Bianca agreed and I went to the cashier to check out. I walked out the boutique ecstatic about what was to come.

--

I woke up the morning of Valentine's Day and rolled over reaching for JC's warm body, but he was gone. I squinted to read the clock on our nightstand. 9:36 AM. I decided to venture downstairs in search of JC. I found him in our kitchen, fully dressed and ready for the day, and setting the table with a spread of breakfast food.

He greeted me with a kiss on the lips. "Good morning, honey. Happy Valentine's Day."

"Happy Valentine's Day, babe. You're up and at 'em unusually early this morning." I was pleasantly surprised that he woke up early to do this for me.

"I am. I went out and got us breakfast and coffee. You woke up at the perfect time. Are you hungry?" He asked eagerly.

"Starving." I took a seat at the table. "So, Mr. Romantic, what do you have planned for us tonight?"

"You'll find out soon, Ms. Impatient." He took a seat across from me and began to dig in.

"Well, I might have some surprises for you too." I winked at him and he raised a curious eyebrow at me.

We continued to eat our meal and drink our coffee, making small talk along the way. He mentioned that his album would be done by the end of next month, and that his manager, Eric, was already formulating a plan for touring that would start in June.

"So, is tour life really how its portrayed? Groupies, alcohol and sex?" I inquired. I needed to know more about life on the road before sending my boyfriend across the world without me.

JC chuckled and took a sip of his coffee before looking up at me. "Truthfully, yes. It was before." He grinned knowing this would get a rise out of me.

My mouth dropped open in surprise. "And what about now?"

"Now, I'm not interested in either of those things.. unless its booze and sex with you."

"Nice save. I know there are groupies though. You can't deny that."

"There is, but I never really fed into that much." He answered truthfully, putting my worries at ease. I needed to put more faith and trust into my relationship with JC. Especially if he was going to be around women throwing themselves at him any chance they got.

I did one final check in the mirror before I headed downstairs to meet JC for our date. I wore a burgundy satin dress with thin straps. The dress fell just below my knee and had a side slit up to my thigh. I paired it with nude strappy heeled sandals and gold jewelry. I straightened my hair for the occasion and wore it down with a middle part.

I walked down our long staircase and found JC in the kitchen with his back to me. He turned when he heard me coming and stared at me in awe. Once again, making me feel confident as ever when he looks at me that way.

"Wow, honey. You look amazing." He gushed, taking my hand and making me spin around so that he could get a full view.

"Thank you. So do you, handsome." I pulled him close to me for a kiss. He put one hand to the back of my head, weaving his fingers through my hair, as he deepened our kiss. His tongue eagerly making its way inside to taste mine. I pulled away breathless and feeling warm all over.

"We better stop if we plan on leaving this house tonight." I giggled. I wouldn't exactly be upset if we didn't, but I put a lot of effort into getting ready tonight. Plus, we were long overdue for a date night.

"You're right. I'll save that for later." He leaned in close, placing a light kiss on my ear before whispering "I can't wait to make love to you later." Sending chills all throughout my body.

This was going to be the best Valentine's Day ever.

--

We arrived at a upscale Italian restaurant named Angelinos and it was breathtaking. I had never been somewhere like this before. The space was adorned with huge dimmed chandeliers providing a romantic glow. We were ushered to a secluded table right near a large window that provided an amazing view of the city. Our table had rose petals all around it and a vase sitting on top of the table with a bouquet of red roses in it. I gasped in awe, taking the whole scene in.

"Josh, this is absolutely beautiful." I said taking a seat, still gawking at the view.

"I thought you might like it. But, my view is much better." He smiled sheepishly, looking at me.

"Well, aren't you just the flirtatious one tonight." I grinned back, feeling all kinds of butterflies in my stomach. That's just what he does to me. He makes me feel like a giddy teenager falling in love.

We enjoyed our dinner together with the most amazing Italian food I had ever experienced. We had a few glasses of wine and shared a dessert. Before we got ready to leave, JC reached across the table and put both of my hands into his and those steel blue eyes captured mine. I held his stare, wondering what was going on in that mind of his.

"You look like you're thinking of something." I spoke up, hoping he would share.

"I am. I'm thinking about how lucky I am to have a woman like you in my life. I've had my share of failed relationships, and I know you have been dealt a bad hand when it comes to that too. I think we are finally getting the love that we deserve. I can see us experiencing it all together." His gaze never wavered.

My eyes welled up as I stared back. Was this real? I had really found someone who was so caring and patient with me. How did one night of drunken fun turn into this? I, Layla Roberts, had finally found the man of my dreams. It literally felt like a dream at times. I continued to stare at him, speechless.

"I'm getting older and settling down seems more and more realistic to me these days. When I think about that, I get so excited now. Is it crazy that I can envision it being with you?" He added.

"No, that's not crazy at all." I managed to squeak out. There was more I wanted to say, but when it came to our future I usually let JC take the lead. I didn't want to scare him away with my thoughts of marriage and kids, and that I was more than ready for both of those things.

Somewhere along the way, JC had made the idea of settling down more appealing to me again. Knowing that if I ever made that step again, it would have to be with someone who reciprocated the love I gave them, but also made me feel like I was an equal in the relationship.

"I know we will get there. In due time." He said confidently. While still holding my hands, he stood up pulling me up with him, and pulled me in for a tight hug. We stood like that embracing for a few minutes, both realizing the magnitude of our feelings expressed that night.

He pulled away and tucked a piece of hair behind my ear. "I love you, Layla."

"I love you too, Joshua."

"Come on, let's get out of here. We have some unfinished business at home." He winked at me.

--

His lips were attached to mine before the front door was even closed. Clothes, phones, keys, were being shed here and there as he guided us through the foyer, down the hallway, up the staircase and into the bedroom. As we stepped into the threshold of the room, all that remained on my body were my panties and bra. JC was removing his shirt as we made our way towards the bed.

He took a moment to glance at me standing at the foot of our bed in my new lingerie I bought specifically for this night.

"Is this my surprise?" He asked huskily, his eyes glazed over with lust.

I turned around, as he stood behind me. I glanced over my shoulder in his direction, seductively, watching him look me up and down.  He finally settled his gaze on my ass and the sheer light pink thong.

"Yep, all for you." I said turning back around to meet his embrace, his strong hands gripping my hips.

"I love it and I love you. So much." He said, placing light kisses along the exposed part of my breasts. JC reached his arms around to my back and unclasped the bra and slowly pulled the straps from my shoulders and finally tossed it on the floor. He licked his lips before taking a nipple in his mouth as he kissed and teased it with his tongue. He switched to the other side and said "And I love these."

He came back up to my face to kiss me passionately, breaking the kiss every so often to tell me something else he loved about my body. Taking a hand, he began to rub over the fabric of my thong. I moaned at the contact, wanting nothing more than to feel his skin against mine. I hastily reached for my thong preparing to rip it off myself, but he stopped me.

"Patience, baby." He replaced my hands with his and slowly pulled the panties down as he kneeled down, placing kisses along my stomach, my pelvic bone, and finally my eager core.

"Jace..." I whispered out as he placed more kisses along my thighs.

"Mmmhmm." He hummed.

"I want to do something for you." I spoke up. JC had always made sure my needs were met first and tonight, I wanted to do that for him.

He stopped and looked up at me grinning from his kneeled position on the floor. "Oh? Like what, Mama?"

"Sit on the bed." I ordered, confidently. He did as I asked after removing his boxer briefs, scooting back until his back was against the headboard. I climbed on the bed, making eye contact with him as I lowered my mouth to his throbbing member. I listened to his ragged breaths and soft moans as I continued to pleasure him. When he was getting closer to his peak, he stopped me and whispered "Come here, baby."

I straddled him before lowering myself onto him, watching his eyes close briefly. He placed one hand on the small of my back as I began a steady rhythm. His other hand made its way to my neck as he pulled me to him, kissing me fiercely. The level of intimacy I was experiencing with him was overwhelming. I lost all control as I got caught up in the pleasure I was feeling. JC took over thrusting upward as we both reached for that high. Our moans turned louder as we both reached our climaxes, breathing shakily as JC enveloped his arms around my body and pressed our foreheads together.

"I love you." I said, wholeheartedly, feeling completely high with emotion and lust as our bodies were still connected intimately. I didn't want this feeling to go away. I was completely and utterly in love with JC and I knew that he was all I needed for the rest of my life.

"I love you, more. And I don't think I could ever stop." He confessed, stroking my cheek with his finger.

I climbed off of him and we both slid under the covers, exhausted from our evening of food, drinks and lovemaking. The last thing I remembered before drifting off to sleep, was the feeling of his warm body pressed against mine.

* 3 Months Later *

JC's new album was released last month and it was getting rave reviews. Our lives had already changed immensely. Paparazzi was everywhere that we went now. Our once somewhat private relationship was now weekly tabloid news. I even had some of my patients at the hospital asking "Aren't you JC Chasez's girlfriend?" It was an adjustment now being the girlfriend of an active popstar. 

To add to that, JC's tour was beginning tomorrow! I was a ball of nerves as I sat on our bed watching him pack things into his suitcase. I had convinced myself for months that I could handle this. We had planned for me to come out on some tour stops when I was not working, and JC would come home to LA when he had several days off at a time. We vowed to make it work. We knew it was just a temporary situation and then we could get back to our usual routine, right? I hoped so.

"You're being unusually quiet right now. Are you sure you're okay?" JC asked as he continued to fold his t-shirts and put them into his suitcase.

"I'm okay. It's just kind of hitting me that you're going to be gone for a while."

"So, come with me." He said nonchalantly, as if it was that easy to just pack up and leave town. Helloooo, I had a job.

"You know I can't do that, Jace." I sighed. I was not going to follow him around like a lost puppy. I didn't want to be a distraction while he was on tour. This was his job and he was finally back to doing what he loved. I didn't want to mess that up.

"Okay, okay." He said putting his hands up, as if he was finally surrendering. "I won't push it anymore."

I sighed and fell back onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling. I heard JC zipping up his suitcase and then a second later, felt the bed shift as he laid down on his side facing me.

"I won't push it anymore... BUT, baby, please know that if at any moment you want to quit playing tough guy and come join me, I will have you on the first flight I can find out of LA." He cupped my cheek with his hand and made me turn to face him.

"I know you will." I said, taking his hand and kissing it.

"So, tomorrow my manager, Eric, is picking me up from here to catch our fight at 6AM to Orlando. I have a show there the next night. After that, I'll hop on the tour bus and will  be doing shows all over. I'll have Eric e-mail you the schedule, babe." JC explained.

"Okay. You know, as much as I am sad, I am also still very happy and excited for you. It's a weird emotion." I bit my bottom lip, hoping to keep from crying. Stay strong, Layla. He needs you to be strong.

"You don't have to be strong for me." JC said, as if he read my mind. He pulled my body close to his and wrapped his arms around me tightly and the remaining wall I had up suddenly came crashing down, as I let the tears fall.

"It's going to be okay, Layla. I promise. You and I will be fine." JC shushed me, rubbing my back soothingly.

I pulled away some to look at him. He wiped my tears with his thumb and kissed me sweetly.

"Are you sure?" I asked, searching his eyes for reassurance.

"I've never been so sure of something in my life." He said with conviction. He kissed me again as he moved his body over mine.

That night he loved me so deeply and for that moment, I knew I had nothing to worry about. I just hoped it stayed that way.

--

"Layla. Baby, wake up."

I stretched, opening one eye to see what was going on. It was still dark in our room, but I could make out JC's figure standing at my side of the bed.

"It's time for me to leave. Eric just pulled up." JC said quietly.

I sat up and pulled the blanket around me, realizing I fell asleep naked after our "goodbye sex" the night before. I felt JC's hands cup my face as my eyes tried to focus in the darkness. I felt his warm breath before he leaned in to kiss me deeply.  I returned the kiss and reached up to place my arms around his neck, letting the blanket fall.

"Do you have to leave?" I whispered, sadly. This was really happening. He was really leaving me all alone in this big house. In this big city.

"Yes, unfortunately I have to. Don't be sad, please. I'll call you as soon as I get to Orlando. I'm going to be counting down the days until you come see me." He said still holding my face, rubbing his thumbs softly down my cheeks.

I nodded and leaned my face into his hand, wanting to savor the feeling of him touching me.

"You know I love you, right?" His other hand moved down my face, then down the center of my chest, leaving goosebumps on my skin. It was crazy how quickly my body reacted to his touch.

"I know, Jace. I love you, more."

"Mmm. I don't think so, honey." He said placing soft kisses down my neck while his hand continued its journey south. As good as it felt, I knew this was going to be sweet torture because he was about to leave. His hand found its destination as flicked my sensitive core, then inserted a finger inside of me, then another. I moaned softly as he worked his magic between my legs.

"Jace... You have to go." I muttered, but made no attempt to stop him.

I felt the absence of his hand  a few seconds later as he pulled it away. Though it was dark, I could see him clearly put his hand to his mouth and suck both fingers, then he leaned into to kiss me. Oh, this was definitely sweet torture. This man knows how to get me going.

He kissed me fully on my lips and finally stood straight up from the hovering position he was just in.

"I just had to taste you before I left. Make sure I don't forget." He said and I just knew he had a smirk on his face.

"You're so bad." I groaned. He laughed as I heard him move toward the bedroom door.

"See you soon, mama. I love you." And then he was gone.

--

“What crawled up your ass?” Bianca asked the next day at work. JC had been gone a whole day and I was trying to remain upbeat. He called me when he got to Orlando the day before and then once more before I went to bed. I hadn’t talked to him at all today and it was killing me.

“Nothing. Why?” I sighed, rolling my eyes.

“Girl, I know you. You’ve been in a shitty mood all morning, barely talking to anyone.”

Bianca knew JC was going on tour, but didn’t know when exactly. “Jace left yesterday for Orlando. His tour kicks off tonight.” I informed her.

"Oh, really? That's.... great, but why aren't you with him?"

"I have a job." I said annoyingly, pointing at the stethoscope around my neck.

"Yeah, I get that, but your boyfriend is JC Chasez and he's touring all around the U.S. right now and you don't want to tag along? You're crazy." She shook her head at me in disbelief.

"I do, but what am I supposed to do? Quit my job?"

"Umm.. yeah?" She laughed.

"I can't depend on someone else to take care of me. We're not married. I just live with him. What happens if he decides to just dump me for some supermodel chick or even a fan?" I blurted out, finally realizing the real reasons I didn't go on tour with JC. I was afraid of giving up my independence. I was afraid of JC dumping me on my ass and then I would be left with nothing.

Bianca stared at me, squinting her eyes curiously. "You really think he would do that?"

I thought briefly before answering. Did I really think JC was capable of this? Or was I just being paranoid and insecure?

"I don't know. I guess its just my own issues." I admitted.

"JC isn't Austin. Don't make him pay for Austin's mistakes, please. You're going to push him away."

I knew that deep down, but hearing it out loud from my best friend struck a nerve. Suddenly, I didn't want to have this conversation. "Whatever, Bianca. I have work to do that doesn’t involve you butting into my relationship.” I got up from my chair at the nurse's station and headed towards my patient's room.

--

By the time I made it home from work that evening, it was well after 8PM and I knew JC was already on stage. It sucked that I didn't get to talk with him before he went on stage. I busied myself around the house, making myself dinner and taking a nice long shower to unwind from my stressful day.

By the time I crawled into bed, it was 11:30PM and still no call from JC. I decided to call him myself as I felt myself getting really tired. He answered on the second ring.

"Hey, honey. I was just thinking about you." He answered, excitedly.

"Hey. I was waiting for you to call. How was your first show?"

"It was amazing. It felt like I was right where I'm supposed to be. I wish you could've been there."

"I know." I sighed, loudly. "According to everyone, I'm a horrible girlfriend for not being there."

"Wait.. what? What are you talking about, Layla?" JC asked, his tone changing quickly.

"Bianca basically said that to me at work today. Everyone is beating me up for it, and I'm just tired of hearing about it."

"Honey, I told you I support whatever you want to do. Don't worry about everyone else's opinions. Okay?"

"Ok, Jace. Look, I'm tired. It was a long, exhausting day at work. Call me in the morning." I said, not wanting to cause any arguments or ruin his good mood.

"Okay.... Um, I love you. Sleep well."

"Love you too." I ended the call, tossing my phone on the other side of the bed. I rolled over and closed my eyes, trying to force myself to sleep. I just wanted this day to end.

* One week later*

JC was in Charlotte, North Carolina today, preparing for his show. I was off today and sitting in the house wallowing in my self pity. I missed Jace terribly. Things with my best friend were weird after our conversation last week. So, here I was sitting in the house alone. Its pathetic. I really need some friends. I decided to call JC, hoping he had time to talk to me. Our conversations lately had been very quick, but it was still nice to hear his voice.

"Hey, honey." He answered as usual. Just hearing his voice made me feel so much better already.

"Hey Jace." I sighed.

"What's wrong?" He asked noticing the sadness in my voice.

"I just miss you and I'm lonely. Come save me." I whined.

"You're such a big baby. I wish I could. I have a 3 day break next weekend and I'll be home to love on you."

Next weekend! I can wait that long, right? I can totally do this.

"Why don't you call up Bianca for a girls day? I'm sure she could help you get your mind off of things." He offered.

He was right. It was way past due for me to apologize to Bianca. She was only trying to help me and I was a total bitch.

“I’ll try to see if she will. She might hate me.”

“She could never hate you, honey. Listen, go get pedicures or whatever it is that you women do. I’ll call my chef and have him come cook you girls a meal. How’s that sound?”

I couldn’t help the big grin that was on my face. I didn’t deserve this man. He was too good to me.

“Sounds amazing, Jace. How do you always know the right things to say?”

He chuckled sexily through the phone. “I guess I’m just good like that.”

“Mmhmm. Okay, Joshua Scott.”

“Okay, Layla Marie. I’ll call you later to see how your day went. I love you.”

“I love you too. Bye.” I hung up the phone and immediately began to think of what I was going to say to Bianca.

I had managed to avoid her at work this past week, but the truth is that I missed my best friend and I needed her now more than ever.

I dialed her number and waited for her answer.

“Hey.” She answered. Okay, I knew she was mad at me because her usual greeting is much more expressive.

“Hey. Um, I wanted to call and apologize for how I acted last week. I know you were just trying to help. I guess it just hurt to hear. I just want us to be okay. You’re my best friend and I need you” I held my breath as I waited for a response.

“It’s okay, Layla. I just want the best for you. I didn’t mean to upset you. I just wanted you to understand how easily you could push JC away and I don’t want that for you.”

“I know. Thank you for always looking out for me. Are we good?” I asked hesitantly.

“We’re good. Now, what are you doing? Still refusing to follow your pop star around the country?” She joked.

I laughed. “Yes, but he will be home next weekend. I am bored out of my mind though. JC thought it would be a good idea for you and I to have a girl’s day.”

“I’m down. What are we doing?”

“Pedicures and dinner. I’ll pick you up at 3?” I offered, suddenly super excited.

“See you then. Bye.”

Things were looking up. I had mended things with my best friend. My man was going to be home next weekend. I felt so relieved.

—

Bianca and I returned to the house after our pedicures. As soon as I opened the door, we both smelled something amazing. Mario, Jace's chef, had come by while we were gone and started on our dinner. I didn’t know what we were having since JC called and arranged it.

We followed the scent to the kitchen and found our seats at the island. Mario turned around to greet us. JC had hired Mario for several events in the past, and they became good friends. Mario had always told JC if he ever needed him to cook, he would do it. And he always did. That's a good thing for JC's sake, since he is not very savvy in the kitchen.

“Hello, Layla! Hello, Layla’s friend.” He said cheerfully.

“Hey, Mario. This is Bianca, my friend.” I introduced them both to each other. “What are you cooking?”

“JC told me you love salmon, so I’m making salmon in a lemon butter sauce, roasted asparagus and loaded mashed potatoes. It should be ready in about 15 minutes.”

"Sounds amazing! You should join us for dinner?" I offered.

"Oh, no. That's okay. Thanks for the invite, but I've got an event downtown tonight. All this food is just for you ladies." He smiled at us before turning back to the stove and continuing to cook.

—

“You are so lucky your boyfriend has a chef he can just call up at any moment to come cook. That food was delicious.” Bianca said, leaning back in her chair after finishing her meal.

"Mario is the best. He's always down to come cook for us. And he's really nice and singleee." I said nudging her shoulder.

"Don't get any ideas. You are not about to play matchmaker." She warned.

"Okay. Okay." I gathered our dirty dishes and put them in the sink to wash later.

Mario had let himself our after our meal was done so that he could make it to his scheduled event. Bianca opened a bottle of wine and poured us both a glass.

"Where's that sexy JT? Has he been around much?" She asked taking a sip of her wine.

I froze immediately upon hearing Justin's name being brought up. I was doing really well with forgetting that he existed, and here she goes bringing him up. The situation between us had become a distant memory and I wanted to keep it that way, but I realized that I had never told Bianca about it.

"Um.. not much anymore." I said nonchalantly, shrugging my shoulders and becoming very focused on the wine glass in my hand.

"Oh? Why not?" She pressed.

"I'm going to tell you something but promise me, you will not tell anyone." I said hoping she noticed the seriousness in my voice. I absolutely couldn't let JC find out.

"Umm.. okay. Did you fuck him or something?" She laughed.

"NO! Oh my gosh." I rolled my eyes at her. "But, he did kiss me. Twice."

"WHAT? Did you kiss him back?"

"No, I didn't. The first time, he kissed me on my ear when we were dancing in the club. The second time was here. It was so weird, B. He is literally one of JC's best friends. I can't believe he would do that."

"YOU DIDN'T TELL JC?" She asked emphatically.

"No! What if it broke up their friendship or worse what if Jace thought I wanted to be with Justin?"

"If it breaks up their friendship, then oh well, that's Justin's fault. And JC wouldn't think you wanted to be with Justin! This is crazy, you have to tell him!"

I had promised JC that we would have no more secrets in our relationship, and if he found out I was keeping this from him, he would be so mad at me. He might even break up with me. However, Bianca was right, I needed to tell him.

"Okay okay. I'll tell him, but later. I want to watch our movie first. Plus, he's probably on stage right now." I explained. This would buy me some time to work up the courage to tell him.

--

"I just want a relationship like Noah and Allie. Do you think JC can love me like that?" I cried, setting my wine glass down to pour another glass.  We had just finished watching The Notebook, which we always seem to pick when we are together.

Bianca grabbed the wine bottle from my hands and held  it away from me. "Sure, but no more wine. You're cut off for the night."

"What are you? My Mom?" I scoffed. Maybe I went a little too hard on the wine tonight, but after the week I've had plus missing JC, I needed a little wine therapy. (And also some wine courage to tell JC this news he wasn't going to want to hear.)

"Yes I am your mother tonight. And you've had enough." She said sternly. She's no fun.

"Whateverrrr." I plopped back down on the couch and stared at the ceiling. "I want to have JC's babies. Like 5 of 'em."

Bianca shook her head and laughed. "Okay, you're drunk. Does he even want kids?"

"I am NOT drunk. A little tipsy. AND YES. He does want kids. He told me so. He didn't say he wanted them with me, but yeah... just in general. I would get pregnant tomorrow if he wanted me to." I said, dreamily fantasizing about our little curly haired babies we would have.

"Somehow, I think you're serious."

"I AM." I sighed.

I felt my phone vibrating beside me and sat up quickly. It's him!

"Jaaaaace. Baby." I answered.

I heard him chuckle before he said, "Sounds like girl's day went well. What are you doing sweets?"

"Sitting here with Bianca telling her how much I want to have your babies."

Bianca gasped and covered her mouth, as if she couldn't believe I said that to him.

"Oh, really? Have you been drinking, baby?"

"A little. Okay, a lot, but I know what I'm talking about." I rolled my eyes. Geez, why does everyone think I can't handle a little wine?

"Well, all you had to do was say the word. I'm ready for these babies when you are." He said seriously. I melted right then and there on the couch. This couldn't be real.

"The world needs some more Chasez's." He added.

"I have to agree with you there, and I'll give them to you, babe." I gushed.

Bianca pretended to gag and I laughed. Then she signaled for me to bring up Justin. This was about to completely ruin the mood....

“So.. um.. I need to tell you something?” I started. My heartrate quickened and my mouth was dry as a desert.

“Okay..” He said cautiously, a hint of concern in his voice.

Here goes nothing.

“Justin kissed me. Twice. Once at his party and another time here when you were in New York. I promise you I didn’t kiss him back either time. I didn’t tell you because he’s one of your best friends and I didn’t want to ruin that.” I breathed a sigh of relief, having this weight off my shoulders.

There was silence on the other end of the phone. I began to panic.

“JC?”

A couple more seconds passed before I heard a faint “Yeah.”

“Are you going to say anything?”

“I knew things were always weird when you two were around each other. Why would you keep this from me? I thought we agreed there would be no more secrets between us.”

I let my head fall back against the couch and sighed. Why did I let Bianca talk me into this? We could still be talking about babies! Fuck!

"I know. I just didn't know how to tell you without it causing drama. I told him to leave me alone."

"So, that's why he hasn't been around much. Layla, do you have feelings for him?" He asked, hesitantly.

"What? Josh, no. Absolutely not." I said, vehemently. I just told this man I wanted to have his babies and he's asking me if I have feelings for his best friend.

"Okay..."

"Are you mad at me?" He has every right to be mad at Justin. What he did was fucked up. But me? I'm being honest and telling the truth.

"I don't know what I am, Layla. Look, I just need some time to think about some shit, okay? I'll talk to you tomorrow." And then he was gone.

He really hung up before I could even say anything. No 'goodbye'. No 'I love you.'

I stared at my phone as I blinked back tears. Bianca looked at me sympathetically, handing me back the bottle of wine she confiscated from me earlier.

"Want another drink?" She asked, quietly.

* 3 DAYS LATER *

I have not talked to JC in THREE DAYS. Three damn days! And it's slowly killing me. 

The day after I told him everything, I didn't expect a call. He said he needed time, so I was going to respect that. I didn't like it, but I dealt with it.

The second day, I worked and was busy most of the day so I didn't have a lot of time to think about it. When I got home that evening, I took a shower and crashed not long after that.

Day three, however, I am starting to worry. I was sitting on our bed staring at my phone, trying to use some sort of magic to make JC call me. He was supposed to be back in town in a few days, but I cannot wait that long anymore. I could easily call him, but that wasn't what I needed. I needed to hear from him. I needed to see him.

I ran down to his office and got on his computer. It was time to do something drastic if I wanted to save my relationship. A few minutes later and a plane ticket was purchased, heading to New York, where JC is currently.

However, to make this plan work, I needed a little help.

I pulled out my phone and sent a text to Eric.

It's Layla. I'm catching a flight to NYC to surprise Jace. Please don't tell him. Send me the hotel details, please. I'll be there by 9pm tonight.

A couple minutes later, he sent me a the name of their hotel and wished me safe travels.

I stood up and ran my hands through my hair. Okay, I am really doing this. JC better love me forever after this. I am getting on a plane (which I hate) ALONE and surprising him. Hell, he should welcome me with open arms, right?

--

"I can't believe you're doing this! Finally, chasing your popstar." Bianca said lightheartedly, as she pulled up to the airport.  I told her my plan and asked her to drop me off at the airport. I had hoped it would ease my nerves some before getting on the plane.

"Trust me, I can't believe I'm doing it either." I said nervously, twirling a strand of my hair around my finger.

"I think it'll all be fine. Don't worry. Just think, in a few hours you'll see JC!"

It had been weeks since I had been able to see him. I couldn't wait. Sure, it wasn't under the best circumstances, but none of that mattered as much as seeing him. Touching him.

I leaned over and hugged Bianca. "Thank you, B. You're really the best friend I have ever had."

She hugged me back and rubbed my back caringly. "Aww, Layla. You're my best friend too. Make sure you text me as soon as you land, okay? Love you."

We pulled away from each other and I gave her one final hopeful smile before I exited the car and retrieved my suitcase from her trunk. I watched her wave as I began to walk into LAX.

Okay, we're really doing this!

--

Hours later..

NYC

By the time I got to New York, it was night time. Although, the flight was just a couple of hours, I was pretty tired. I stopped at a coffee shop in the airport and grabbed a latte before heading outside to catch a cab to the hotel Jc was staying at. So far, everything was going smoothly.

I flagged down a cab and told the cab driver my destination. I sent Bianca a quick text to let her know I was here and safe, and another text to Eric to let him know I was on my way to the hotel.

This was my first time ever in New York and I had traveled here alone! My anxiety was at an all time high, but I was still intrigued by the city lights and the hustle and bustle of the city.

We arrived at the Hard Rock Hotel and I quickly paid the cab fee and scurried into the hotel lobby. It was way cooler here than in LA, even in the summer. I should have definitely checked the weather before I packed. I sat in the lobby, as I waited for Eric to find me and escort me to JC's room. There was absolutely no way I would've been able to go there alone. Security was pretty tight and since Jace wasn't expecting me, this was the only way.

A few minutes later, I see Eric approaching me. "How was the flight?" He asked, giving me a polite hug.

"It was okay. I hate flying. But I made it. Is Jace in his room?"

"He and his bodyguard, Mark, went out for some food. He should be back shortly, but I'll take you up to his room to wait. He's going to be surprised to see you."

I smiled nervously. "I hope so."

I followed Eric to the elevators and we rode up to the top floor where JC was staying. We approached the penthouse suite, and Eric used a keycard to open the door. He held the door open for me as I crossed the threshold, rolling my luggage behind me.

Holy shit, it's nice in here. I've never seen a hotel room this big.

"Make yourself at home. I'm sure JC will be back soon. See ya later." He waved before the door closed behind him.

I will definitely make myself at home. I'm tired as hell. I dropped my luggage at  the door, kicked off my shoes and shed my jacket. I made my way around the suite, taking it all in before I found the bedroom and laid down on the most soft bed I have ever laid on.

I didn't plan on falling asleep, but my anxiety ridden day and the plane ride caught up to me, and I drifted off to sleep.

--

I awoke to the sound of the hotel door opening and slamming shut. I sat up and rubbed my eyes, panicking briefly as I forgot where I was. Before I could gather my thoughts, I see JC standing in the doorway of the bedroom.

"Layla?" He stood there, with confusion written all over his face.

"Um, hi." I said, still a bit dazed.

"What are you doing here?" He asked, still not moving from his spot in the doorway. Okay, that was not the greeting I was hoping for.

“I came to see you. I wanted to surprise you.” I said sheepishly, getting up from the bed and walking up to him. I circled my arms around his waist and laid my head against his chest. I felt his body tense up briefly, then relax as he put his arms around me and kissed me on top of the head.

"I'm so sorry, Jace. I didn't want to hurt anyone. I thought it was better off if I acted like nothing happened with Justin. I should've told you. I'm so so sorry." I sniffled into his chest. "I love you so much. I would never ever betray you like that. Especially with your best friend." I tightened my arms around him. I wanted to be as close as possible and I never wanted to let go. 

He pulled us apart and lifted my chin up with his hand. He stared deep into my teary eyes for several seconds. I held my breath, bracing myself for his response.
"I want you to promise me something. I'm serious this time, Layla. There is nothing I want more right now than to be with you, to make you my wife one day and to love you for a lifetime, but we have to be a team, baby. You can tell me anything. ANYTHING. So, please promise me you will no longer keep things from me." He spoke.

“I won’t. I promise, JC. I promise.” I breathed a sign of relief. He still wanted to be with me! For the first time in the last 3 days, I had hope that we would be okay.

He wiped away a tear that was coming down my face, and kissed my forehead, lingering there for a couple of seconds. I continued to cry silently.

“Baby, it’s ok. Quit crying, please. You know I hate to see you cry.”

“I’m sorry. You know I’m a cry baby.” I laughed, wiping my face with my hands.

“I was really scared that I was coming all the way out here for you to break up with me. Also, I’m still worried about you and Justin.” I confessed.

“Let me worry about that, okay? Justin and I have been through some shit before. I’m definitely pissed at him, but we’ll talk when I get back to LA. He just better never try that shit again.” He said. From the icy look in his blue eyes, I could tell that he meant every word. I nodded. Despite what he said, I was still going to worry. I would feel awful if I was the downfall of their friendship.

"So, you just couldn't wait a few more days for me to get back to LA?" He asked, grabbing my hand and leading to sit on the bed as he sat down beside me.

"No , I couldn't. It was driving me crazy that you weren't calling me. I needed to hear your voice. See you." I turned to face him.

"I just needed some time to cool off and to think about things. Plus, I've been really busy with interviews, photoshoots and shows. I should've checked in with you. I'm sorry, honey."

"It's ok. I'm here now." I smiled.

"You are. So, when do you have to go back to work?" He asked curiously.

JC was about to have the shock of a lfietime. While on the plane, I was able to do a lot of thinking. I couldn't take being away from the person I loved for so long. It wasn't worth the worrying or the loneliness. My career was important to me, and I knew that I would go back to it evdentually, but for now, my heart was calling me to travel the world with JC. So, I typed up my resignation letter on my phone while on the plane and e-mailed it to my manager as soon as I landed.

"Actually, I resigned. I e-mailed them today. Effective immediately." I said grinning as I watched the shock on his face.

He nearly tackled me, hugging me fiercly and pulling us down to the bed. He placed kisses all over my face, before kissing me hard on my lips. He pulled back to look at me. "You really did it?"

"I really did it. Are you happy?" I ran my fingers through his long wavy hair. The look on his face was enough to make my heart burst.

"You have no idea how happy I am, honey. I love you so much, Layla." He pulled my body close to his and held me tightly, snuggling his face into my neck.

It was worth it. It was all worth it.

Life on the road was everything I thought it would be: unpredictable and crazy! I joined JC on the road since that night I showed up in New York. I had literally the clothes on my back and a few outfits in my suitcase. The next day, we stayed in NYC and JC took me shopping around the city. We picked up where we left off relationship-wise, but this new adventure of touring brought us closer together.

An added bonus was watching JC perform at every tour stop. It was amazing to see him doing what he loved. He had an endless amount of energy when he was on stage and his voice was always phenomenal. Seeing another side of him made me fall in love with him even more.

A week later, we were in Chicago and I was watching his soundcheck from the side of the stage. I would catch him stealing glances at me during certain songs and it would make feel tingly all over.

I decided to find some lunch and wait for soundcheck to end. I went backstage and helped myself to the spread of food that had been catered for JC and his tour crew.

"So, how are you adjusting to life on the road?" I looked up from my food to see Eric making a plate for himself. He then took a seat beside me as he began to chow down.

"I definitely didn't know what to expect. It's very busy. Mostly for Jace. I'm just along for the ride." I chuckled, shoving more salad into my mouth.

"Yeah, he works hard. I didn't think he was going to put himself back into this world of entertaining but he did. Did you help convince him? I've been trying for years."

"I didn't push him, but I definitely encouraged it. He seems much happier when he's on that stage."

"Definitely. And he seems much happier when you're around. You're good for Jace. A lot of his girlfriends took advantage of him, used him for his money and his fame. They only loved the perks, not JC. I can tell you're not like that."

I smiled and blushed. It was different to hear someone close to JC tell me how much my presence in his life affected him.

"Thank you. I've always been pretty adamant about having my own things, my own career. I never wanted him to feel like I was using him. As you know, I did quit my job to finish this tour out with him, but he had begged me to do that for so long."

"Yeah, he can be pretty persuasive." Eric chuckled.

"Trust me, I know." I giggled out loud, but in my mind I knew I would let JC convince me to do just about anything. That's how much I loved him.

"Why do I feel like you two are talking about me?" I hear from behind me as JC placed his arms around my neck and kissed me on the cheek. I smiled and turned my head to meet his mouth and kissed him.

"Don't worry. We were only saying good things about you." I replied.

"With Eric present? I doubt it." JC joked. Eric just shook his head and laughed.

"Jace, don't forget we have a meet and greet before this show so we have to be back at the venue by 5. Don't be late, please." Eric said, standing up to dispose of his plate.

"Yes, DAD." JC retorted. Eric waved his hand away, and walked the other direction before he disappeared somewhere backstage.

"So, what do you want to do until meet and greet?" I asked, throwing away my trash. I looked at JC who had a devilish smile on his face.

"Well, I have something in mind." He said wiggling his eyebrows.

"Perv." I slapped his arm, playfully.

"I'm kidding, babe. I could go for a nap. Let's head back to the hotel."

We walked towards the back exit of the venue and outside to the car that was waiting to transport us back to our hotel.

--

"How exactly am I supposed to concentrate on performing tonight when you're wearing that?" JC asked looking me up and down.

I rolled my eyes. "What? I wanted to look nice tonight." I shrugged and looked down at my outfit. I wore a black leather mini skirt, a white low-cut tank top, and paired it with some black open toe heels. I straightened my hair and let it fall to my mid back and did very natural looking makeup on my face.

I wasn't exactly trying to be a distraction, but I did want him to think about me.

"You look more than nice, mama." He said licking his lips.

We had returned to the venue and JC had just finished his meet and greet. I decided to stay in his dressing room, to avoid any unwanted stares and questions from his fans.

"Jace, we're in your dressing room. There are people everywhere on the other side of that door. Don't get any ideas." I warned as he came closer to me where I was sitting on the couch.

"When has that ever stopped me before? Remember game night at my house?" He asked, referencing the night I had just met all his friends and he and I decided to sneak off and have sex in his office. It was definitely a thrill.

I sighed as he knelt before me and uncrossed my legs. He settled his hands on either sides of my thighs. Remember when I said JC could convince me to do just about anything? Point proven.

I looked down at him and gulped audibly. He looked at me with lust and desire, and that alone made me warm all over.

"Will you at least make sure the door is locked?" I managed to ask before I completely lost all my common sense.

JC hopped up and quickly locked the door before returning to his position on the floor in front of me.

"Do you know how much I love you?"  He asked rubbing his hands up and down my thighs, slowly inching my skirt up higher. His blue eyes were staring at me intently and I was finding it hard to look anywhere else.

"Probably about as much as I love you." I responded, breathily.

"Not a chance, honey." I felt his fingers hook onto the thong that I was wearing underneath my skirt. He pulled it down slowly and tossed it aside. I watched him place soft kisses along my thighs, working his way higher, never breaking eye contact with me. I was starting to feel warm all over in anticipation of what he was about to do next.

"I can't even put it into words. I think I can show you though." He said in between his barrage of kisses. I lost the ability to speak at the moment, because I was so turned on by this man who was now staring hungrily at the lower half of my body. In an instant, his tongue met my core and I gasped. I was at a loss for words every time he did that. He's just too damn good.

The thought that there were so many people in the vicinity of the dressing room briefly crossed my mind, and I couldn't believe we were doing this right now. Right here.

I let my head fall back onto the couch as pleasure took over my body. Moments later, I moaned loudly, totally forgetting where we were. JC chuckled and said "shhh", his mouth never leaving its place between my legs. That sent a vibration through my body that sent me over the edge as I began to climax. I covered my own mouth to stifle the moans.

JC stood up, his body hovering over mine and kissed me gently on the mouth. He handed me the thong that he tossed aside earlier.

"That's how much I love you. I'm ready for the show now. I'll see you in the front row, baby." He winked at me and started towards the door. He opened it making sure nobody was around and closed it behind him as he left. I sat there on the couch trying to regain my composure.

--

I sat in front row watching the man I love perform his heart out. He would make eye contact with me occasionally and wink at me. A couple of fans seemed to notice, and realized who I was. I just smiled at them and continued watching the show.

This was my life now. Touring, watching JC do his thing on stage, and living in the moment day to day. I had reservations about doing this, because I was so comfortable in LA being Layla a nurse, living a somewhat lowkey life. However, at this very moment, I couldn't see my life any other way.

“It feels SO good to be home!” I exclaimed as we walked into our home. JC walked in behind me, pulling our luggage with him. He left our suitcases at the door and pulled me into an embrace.

“I’m so happy we’re back home.” He sighed, loudly.

The tour was coming to a close. We had made our way back to the west coast. After two months of continuous traveling, I was so excited to be back home. JC had one more show left. It was going to be tomorrow night at The Forum.

JC was particularly excited about this show because it was close to home and his friends would be attending.

"What's the first thing you want to do now that we're home?" I asked, circling my arms around his waist, subtly hinting at something sexual but knowing we were both extremely tired.

JC pulled away slowly, kissed me on the cheek and said "SLEEP!" before he bolted towards the stairs leading to the bedrooms.

I shook my head and chuckled quietly as I trailed behind him. He truly loves his sleep. I couldn't deny that a nap sounded pretty amazing after all of the traveling we had done. By the time I reached our bedroom, he was snuggled under the covers already looking at me with half lidded eyes. I climbed into bed with him and soon drifted off to sleep.

--

I awoke sometime later and noticed I was alone in bed. It was late afternoon and my stomach was growling loudly.  I decided to venture downstairs in search of JC and some food.

I got halfway down the staircase and froze as I heard JC and another familiar voice talking in the kitchen. Thankfully they couldn't see me. I stood there briefly to hear what was being said. Sure, I was eavesdropping, but I was the topic of conversation so it was okay, right?

"I really don't know what I was thinking C. I was totally out of line. I'm sorry. I really feel like a jerk." Justin stated solemnly.

Life had been great. We got to totally avoid the Justin issue for awhile. We weren't even home a couple of hours and it was back. I wasn't prepared to deal with this today, but I guess I had no choice. I could just hide here on the staircase and avoid it some more.

"I don't know, man. I know we've had our issues over girls before, but this one is different. I'm really serious about her. I was really shocked to hear about you coming on to her. What the fuck, dude?" JC retorted. I cringed at the hint of anger in his voice.

"I know you are serious about her. That's why I stopped everything. I came to my senses. You're my brother and I just want you to be happy. You have every right to be mad at me, though." Justin reasoned.

"I'm not mad at you, J. Just a little disappointed. Just don't ever try that shit again." JC answered. I relaxed some hearing him say he wasn't mad at Justin. Truthfully, I wanted them to be okay and I wanted it to be okay to be around Justin without any weird tension.

“I won’t, dude. I actually met someone recently that I’m really into. So, you and Layla are pretty serious, huh? Have you thought about settling down with her soon?” Justin asked, and suddenly I felt like I really was intruding on a private conversation, but I was dying to know JC’s answer.

“Actually I’ve been thinking about it a lot. I think that will be happening sooner than later..”

I wonder how long I can hide here on the stairs before they find me.

ACHOO!

Real smooth, Layla. Now they're going to know I was snooping on their conversation.

"Layla? Is that you?" I heard JC ask as he came around the corner stopping right in front of the staircase, eyeing me curiously.

"Hey. Yep, yeah its me."  I waved awkwardly.

 I saw Justin follow behind him and look up at me.

"How long have you been listening to our conversation?" JC smirked, clearly amused that I was caught.

"Uhh.. Not long." I answered, shrugging my shoulders and looking away.

Justin chuckled. "She was totally listening to us. Well, then you know I came here to apologize to the both of you. I was out of line. I'm sorry, Layla. I hope that we can restart our friendship?" He held out a hand to me. I walked down the rest of the staircase and met his handshake.

"Thank you for apologizing, Justin. I think we can start over." I smiled, genuinely.

JC looked back and forth at us and beamed. "Good, because you both are stuck with me forever so you don't have a choice."

--

“I told you it would all work out.” Bianca said, looking through our selection of wine.

I exhaled loudly, as if I had been holding my breath since I first told JC about Justin. “You were right. I had to go through some shit before that, but eventually yes, it did all work out.”

Bianca settled on a bottle of Merlot and poured us both a glass. JC had snuck off to his studio at some point after Justin left. You would think he wanted a break from music since he had been on tour for months, but he just had to get to his studio and work on some new ideas he had. So, I called my best friend to come over since it had been weeks since I saw her. I really missed her, plus I wanted to tell her all about tour life.

“I’m dying to know… is it weird having sex on a tour bus?” Bianca asked, giggling.

I gasped at my friend’s blunt question, but really I knew better than to be surprised.

“Yes. It is weird, but the extra movement of the bus is definitely a plus." I laughed, reminiscing on the many things that happened on that bus from city to city.

"You lucky bitch!" Bianca exclaimed, playfully pushing my shoulder.

"Are you coming to the show tomorrow? I can get you some VIP tickets."

"Of course! I wouldn't miss it. I'm excited to see JC perform!"

"You're going to be blown away. He's amazing." I gushed.

Tomorrow night was going to epic.

"This is it, baby! The last show! How do you feel?" I asked jumping up and down giddily. I was excited for tonight. I was excited that it was the end of the tour, and also extremely excited that our friends would be in attendance to see JC do his thing.

"I'm really happy. I couldn't ask for more. This tour has been amazing. The album did great. I have you by my side. This is the happiest I have ever been." He confessed, cupping my face with his hands and kissing me tenderly. He pressed his forehead against mine.

"Will you pray with me before I go out there?" He asked. I nodded 'yes'. JC held my hands in his squeezing them softly before he began.

"God, I pray that we have a good show tonight. Thank you for blessing me with this opportunity to play my songs for the world. Thank you for protecting me and the people I love the most. Thank you for bringing this woman into my life who keeps me grounded and pushes me to be the best I can be. Amen."

I felt a tear run down my cheek as he pulled away. We were brought together for a reason and I truly felt that I had met my soulmate. Everything that had happened before didn't even matter. JC had turned my life upside down, but in the most positive way. A year ago, I would have never thought I would be here, in love again. A year ago, I was going through the worst pain I have experienced thus far in my life. The saying is true: A lot can happen in a year. 

"That was beautiful, Jace.” I sniffled, letting the tears flow freely down my face. 

JC wiped my tear away with his thumb and kissed me once again. "Thank you, honey. It’s all true. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

A quiet sob escaped my mouth as my emotions took over. I couldn’t help crying like a baby. I couldn’t even find words to say.

“Hey, it’s okay. I didn’t mean to upset you.” He shushed, kissing my tears.

“I’m not upset. I’m happy. Thank you for that.” I smiled.

*Knock knock*

“JC, it’s time!” We heard Eric’s muffled voice from the other side of the door.

JC took a deep breath and let it out forcefully. “Guess it’s showtime. I’ll see you out there, okay?”

He kissed me one more time then went to leave the dressing room, but not before stopping at the door and turning around to wink at me and mouthing “I love you.”

--

I usually sit front row to watch JC's shows, but tonight I was off to the side of the stage with Bianca, Justin and Lance. It wouldn't have been a good idea for Justin and Lance to sit in the audience, so we decided to join them backstage. There was a full bar backstage so we took advantage of the free alcohol and amazing view of the show.

"Hey Layla. Good to see you again." Lance said, hugging me. 

"You too! You remember, Bianca, right?" I said gesturing towards my friend. "Justin, I don't think you have met each other before. This is my best friend, Bianca. Bianca, Justin."

"Nice to meet you, Bianca." Justin said, shaking her hand. Bianca stood there star-struck for a minute before she found her voice to respond. I laughed to myself, knowing she had a huge crush on Justin.

"Nice to meet you, too." She stated, her eyes wide with shock. Justin smiled shyly back at her, then focused his attention back to the stage.

"My goodness. He's sexy as fuck in person!" She whispered to me. I laughed and shook my head at her, noticing Justin side-eyeing us trying to overhear the conversation.

JC had just begun "Blowing Me Up" and I was bobbing my head to the beat of the drum percussion in the song while I sipped my margarita. I loved when he performed this one, mainly for the dance moves. I couldn't get enough of his dancing. It was always full of energy and precise.

I took another sip of my margarita realizing that was the end of it and it was time for another. 

“Hey guys, I’m going to go get me another drink. Anybody want anything?” I announced.

“NO!” Both Justin and Lance nearly screamed at the same time.

“No, um, I’ll grab you another one. You stay here.” Justin said nervously.

“What? Why? I can get my own drink, Justin.”

“We just don’t want you to miss any of the show!” Lance spoke up, acting just as weird as his friend.

“Guys, I’ve seen this show a hundred times now. It’s ok if I miss a song.” I rolled my eyes. Why are they acting so strange?

“Be right back with that margarita!” Justin said before he walked away quickly. 

I looked at Bianca questionably and she shrugged her shoulders at me. I decided to let it go and turned my attention back to the stage.

—

“I’d like to slow it down a bit.” JC announced, wiping his forehead with a towel. 

“As you may or may not know, this is my last show of this tour so it’s a very special night to me.  A year ago if you would’ve asked me if I’d be back on a stage, I would’ve politely said no. I was content with being behind the scenes and truthfully, after the way things went before for me as a solo artist, I was lacking that confidence I needed to get back on stage.”

I smiled, feeling extremely proud of everything he has accomplished.

“I met someone who makes me feel like the most confident man in the world. I can literally take on anything if she’s by my side. Well, she’s here tonight and I want to just show her how much she means to me.”

I gasped as I looked around at my friends, who didn’t seem the least bit surprised at what was happening. They must have all been in on this. This is why they were acting so strange!

JC grabbed a chair from opposite side of the stage and set in in the middle of the stage. He then looked directly at me and motioned for me to come onstage. I froze not knowing what to do. Thankfully where I was standing no one in the audience could see me yet. I felt a slight push from Bianca as my feet carried me onstage towards JC.

He met me halfway and took my hand in his, leading me to the chair. I took a seat and looked out into the crowd of screaming fans and immediately got nervous. 

Just then, the pianist started to play and JC began to sing.

We've been together for a while now

We're growing stronger everyday now

It feels so good and there is no doubt

I will stay with you

He sang looking deep into my eyes as he held my hand. I found myself getting completely enamored by his smooth, velvety voice and all the emotion that he was conveying, and I was no longer worried about the thousands of fans staring back at us. It was just me and JC in this moment, lost in each other eyes.

Oh I will stay with you through the ups and the downs

Yes I will stay with you when no one else is around

And when the dark clouds arrive

I will stay by your side

And I know we'll be alright

I will stay with you

JC had sung to me so many times before, but none of those times compared to this. He wasn’t singing these words for me to hear them. He was singing so I would FEEL them.

And I did. My heart swelled and tears welled up in my eyes as I hung on to every single word.

And in the end I know that we'll find

Love so beautiful and divine

And we'll be lovers for a lifetime

And I'll stay with you

As the song came to a close, JC kneeled before me, reaching up to wipe the tears that had begun to fall from my eyes. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small black box.

My eyes grew wide as I watched in anticipation of what he was doing next. This couldn’t be! Was he really doing this? Right now? In front of 20,000 fans?

I looked at him, wide eyed, mouth agape. He smiled and put his head down as if trying to find the courage to say what he wanted to say.

“Layla Marie Roberts, these past couple of months have shown me that you are everything I could ever want in a partner. You are funny, smart, extremely thoughtful and loving. You have shown me that you would do anything for me, including quitting your job and flying across the US to tell me you love me. “ he chuckled recalling that memory. I managed to laugh a long with him even though my heart was beating out of my chest.

“I know this is crazy, but I know we aren’t getting any younger and I want to spend the rest of my days loving you."

He opened the box to reveal a ring with a solitaire diamond that sparkled under the spotlight. 

“Will you marry me?”

It felt like time stopped. The screaming fans were muted. The only sound was my heart beating out of my chest. 

I looked down at JC who was still kneeled in front of me looking at me with a hint of panic in his eyes, anxiously awaiting an answer. 

I nodded my head “yes” furiously as I jumped out of the chair and embraced him. He welcomed it, tightening his arms around my waist. He pulled apart to place the ring on my finger. I held my hand out in amazement, staring at the shiny solitaire diamond adorning my finger. It was perfect.

He kissed me passionately as the crowd went wild. When we pulled apart, I realized I had tears rolling down my face. The range of emotions I was feeling was a bit overwhelming. I was relieved when I felt JC take my hand in his and walk me offstage back to where our friends were waiting.

“I love you.” He kissed me one more time before disappearing back onstage to finish his show.

“OH MY GOD, LAYLA!!” Bianca screams breaking me out of my trance, as she hugged me furiously jumping up and down.

“Congratulations, Layla!” Lance spoke up coming over to hug me as well. 

“You knew! That’s why you and Justin were acting so weird!” I said, hugging him back. 

He chuckled lightly. “We did, but we were sworn to secrecy. Right, J?”

“Yes and I did not want to be on JC's bad side again! Congratulations. I'm really happy for you guys." Justin said sincerely. I hugged him and thanked him. It was nice to be around Justin and for it to not be weird.

Justin stepped aside and it wasn't until then that I noticed another person was present. 

"MOM?!" I squealed as my eyes started to well up again. I ran to her and enveloped her in a tight hug, still in awe of how planned out this was.

"I can't believe you're here, Mom. Oh my gosh."

"Hi honey. I wouldn't miss this for the world. I love you so much." She cried, clutching me.

If it weren't for the actual tears that I could feel running down my face, I would think this was all a dream. I'm engaged. Holy shit, I'm engaged. Again.

--

I was waiting in JC's dressing room as the show was wrapping up. Our friends and my mom had left already to beat the heavy traffic that would ensue after the concert. We all made plans to meet later that night at a club nearby to celebrate the end of the tour and of course, our engagement. 

I paced the floor, wringing my hands nervously. I was incredibly anxious to see JC after all that had transpired within the last hour.

He opened the door with the cutest grin on his face. He was dripping with sweat from head to toe. He literally gave 1000% percent on stage tonight and shut the place down. He crossed the room and pulled me into a hug, smearing sweat all over me and I didn't even care. Nothing mattered more than being in his arms.

"Well, hello future Mrs. Chasez." He said, kissing me on my forehead. 

"Jace, I feel like I'm in a dream right now." 

"It's crazy, isn't it?" 

I pulled away to look him in the eyes. "Insane. Are you sure you want to marry me?"

"Are you kidding me?" JC asked. He placed his hands on either side of my face and met my gaze. "I've never been so sure of anything in my life. You're stuck with me, honey."

He enclosed his arms around my waist and kissed me sweetly on my nose. I closed my eyes and breathed a sigh of relief. I think I can actually believe this now. 

"Josh, I love you. Oh so very much. But you smell. Please go take a shower." I laughed.

"Baby, get used to this funk! You're gonna have it for the rest of your life!" He laughed boisterously, hugging me closer.

I could deal with that. 

--

We had an amazing time out celebrating with our friends. The drinks were flowing and everyone was in good spirits. My mom even came by briefly to party with everyone. Bianca thought that was the coolest thing ever to see my mom in a club. That reminded me of the time she came to visit me and we went to her hotel bar and got drunk, so I told that story to everyone and they all got a good laugh out of that. 

I was so happy to have good people around us who supported us. It made me wonder what I did to deserve this life that was so vastly different than the one I had just a year ago. 

Although we had a wonderful time with everyone, JC and I were both itching to get home to celebrate our engagement privately.

We had arrived home shortly after 2am and we were both wiped out from our day. JC took my hand and led me upstairs to our bedroom where we began to shed our clothing. 

"I know I showered after the show, but I really want to get another one and wash off all that stuff from the club. Care to join me?" JC asked, stepping out of his boxer briefs and standing before me naked.

I opened my mouth to speak but all that I could muster was a nod 'yes'. To call this man's body beautiful was an understatement. He had always been lean with amazing muscles, but being on tour for the past couple of months had done his body good. His arms were more toned, his abs more defined and he was just downright delicious.

He helped me finish undressing, then led me into the adjoining bathroom. He turned on the water, and made sure it was perfect temperature before we stepped inside. After helping each other wash up and rinse off, we stepped out and dried off, each wrapping a towel around us. I walked towards the armoire to find something to sleep in and he stopped me.

"You don't need that right now, mama." He said huskily, stepping behind me, his mouth lingering at my ear. Instant chills ran through my body and I shivered. 

What a feeling of vulnerability comin' over me

And I'm feeling weak and I can't speak

I can't think, no

Never thought I'd give in so willingly to a human being

With abilities to set me free, let me be me

I turned to him and smiled. “And why is that?”

“I could tell you, but I’d rather show you.”

He opened my towel up slowly and let it fall to the floor, looking at my body lovingly. “You have no idea how lucky I am to get to see this beautiful body for the rest of my life.” He breathed, running his hands up and down my arms, before leaning in to kiss me. He effortlessly picked me up and carried me to our bed and laid me down, dropping his own towel at the foot of the bed. 

He settled his body between my legs, chest to chest, his hands gently caressing either side of my face. He looked longingly into my eyes and we held our gaze together for several minutes, just exchanging unspoken emotions with our eyes and caressing each other’s bodies.

His mouth found its way to my neck as he placed wet kisses down it leading to my chest. He lingered at my chest taking a moment to lavish each sensitive bud with his mouth. A moan escaped my mouth as I felt one of his hands travel down my body, his fingers finding their destination, rubbing my sensitive, wet core. 

“Josh..” I whimpered, trying to control my breathing he continued to pleasure me simultaneously with his mouth and his hand.

Your lips, your eyes, your smile, your kiss

I must admit it's a part of me

You please me, complete me, filling me like a melody

Your soul, your flow, your youth, your truth is simply proof

We were meant to be

“I need you.” I breathed, practically writhing underneath him. He hummed, bringing his lips back up to mine, kissing me. His fingers continued to move in circular motions between my legs, dangerously close to bringing me to the edge.

I felt that familiar tingle as I reached that peak, causing me to gasp, breaking our kiss. JC took that opportunity to tug on my bottom lip delicately with his teeth. I barely had time to recover from my first climax before I felt him at my entrance, slowly inching his way in.

He let out a low sigh as he settled inside of me. My hands raked lightly up and down his back as he began a slow, sensuous pace. 

It's so amazing how something so sweet

Has come and rearranged my life

I've been kissed by destiny, oh, Heaven came and saved me

An angel was placed at my feet; this isn't ordinary

He's loving me for me

“Look at me.” I struggled to keep my eyes open as I was overtaken by the movements of our bodies together. I met JC’s gaze, his blue eyes boring into mine conveying so much emotion and love. It was a look that I would never get tired of seeing.

He continued to rock in and out of me, my hips meeting his thrusts. The air around us filled with moans, soft grunts and I love yous until we both reached the highest level of ecstasy. 

Jc rolled over and laid down beside me as we both tried to steady our breaths. After a few minutes, he laid on his side facing me, taking his hand and lightly rubbing my stomach. I turned my head to gaze at him, still in complete awe of the man who I was sharing this bed with. 

“What are you thinking about?” I asked curiously, noting he looked deep in thought.

He hesitated a bit before speaking.

“Our future. How much I love you. How everything in my life has come full circle. For so long, every relationship ended in heartbreak. I really never thought something like this was in the cards for me. My music career was slipping away from me. You entered my life and suddenly everything went right, and to me, that wasn’t a coincidence. It was a clear sign to me that you were what I was missing.”

I felt a hot tear roll down the side of my face, hitting the pillow I was laying on. How crazy is it that he can give me the most amazing orgasm of my life then make me cry 5 minutes later? 

“We’ve had our shares of ups and downs but nothing can break us. Nothing.”

He cupped my face with his hand, swiping away another tear that was beginning to fall. I heard the slight waver in his voice before he cleared his throat quickly to steady his voice, but I still noted the glossy look in his eyes.

“I love you so much, Layla Marie.”

He loves every freckle, every curve

Every inch of my skin

Fulfilling me entirely

Taking all of me in

He's real, he's honest

He's loving me for me

Present Day

“Mama, is it time for Daddy to come home yet?” Four year old Marley asked jumping into my lap. 

“Not yet, baby. He will be here today though. Very soon.” I assured her, running my fingers through her long, curly brown hair. 

“I can't wait!” Seven year old Ava spoke up, plopping down beside me on the couch in our living room.

“Me neither. We all miss Daddy so much, don’t we?” 

“Yes, but he’s working with Uncle Justy, Uncle Chris, Uncle Joe and Uncle Lance. Will we get to see them today too?” Marley asked.

“Maybe not today, Mar. They have to go home to their families too.”

The long awaited reunion tour had finally happened. The guys had just finished up the last tour stop the night before and everyone would be heading to their homes today.

JC and I have now been married for 9 years and have two daughters - Ava and Marley. Two rambunctious girls who definitely get all of their energy (and their faces) from their dad. You carry these babies for 9 long months just for them to come out looking just like their daddy! Good thing their's is a heartthrob ;)

Not long after we got married, I returned to the nursing field working PRN to be able to make my own schedule to ensure I could still do what I love but not overwork myself and to also travel with JC for work if needed. It worked great for us. 

When we got pregnant with our first child, JC slowed down and focused more on the producing side of music again. He didn’t want to miss out on any pregnancy milestones with me and he was very overprotective. He was at every appointment and waited on me hand and foot up until I gave birth. Same with the second pregnancy, except that time he had a little more knowledge about what to expect. 

A few years ago, Joey, Lance and Chris came up with the idea that they all should embark on a reunion tour. Justin was only on board if JC was and of course, JC was unsure at first. He initially didn’t want to do it for reasons unknown because he wouldn’t tell anyone. I believe he was just scared of not living up to his younger self on stage. However, after much persuasion from the guys (and ME!), he finally gave in. 

The 2022 Back NSYNC Tour was a huge hit. It kept JC away for weeks at a time, but we were able to go out to at least a handful of shows per month. The girls were in awe of their dad on stage and his still precise and amazing dance moves and his powerful voice.

Now that the tour was over, we were all so happy that he would be home. 

—

“Marley! Ava! Layla!” We heard JC’s voice bellowing through the house as he announced his arrival.

After falling asleep on the couch, we awoke to hear JC coming through the front door. Ava and Marley popped up quickly, completely awake. I was still rubbing my eyes adjusting to the light in the room, wondering when we fell asleep. 

I followed the excited squeals to the foyer where I found JC knelt down with his girls on either side of him, hugging them tightly. 

“Hey girls.” He said softly, kissing them each on their heads. I stood off to the side letting them have their moment, even though I was itching to get to my husband.

After several minutes, JC stood up “Girls, I think Mommy wants some love too.” He sauntered over to me and wrapped his arms around me, resting his chin on top of my head. After a few moments, I raised my head up to meet him for a kiss. 

“Hey baby. I missed you so much.” He looked into my eyes and I felt those familiar butterflies that he still made me feel even after all this time.

“I missed you too, Jace. I’m so glad you’re home.” 

“Daddy, do you have to leave us again?” Marley asked coming closer to JC, in fear that he may leave again.

“Not for some time, baby girl. Our tour is over and Daddy is getting too old to dance every night.” He chuckled. 

“You’re not old, Daddy.” Ava chimed in. 

“Thanks, Ava, but Daddy sure is tired from doing all that performing for months. Plus, I’d rather stay here with you guys. I missed my girls too much.” He smiled warmly.

—

JC and I had just returned to the living room couch after having put the girls to bed. I looked around at the pizza boxes, chip bags and soda cans on the floor from our impromptu picnic. The girls had decided they wanted a picnic in the living room to celebrate JC being back home. I didn’t protest because that meant I didn’t have to cook.

But now I was thinking about the mess that I needed to clean up.

“Don’t worry about it right now, honey. Just be with me.” JC said, reading my mind.

I sighed and let my head fall onto his shoulder. He rested his hand on my thigh and rubbed it gently.

“You know I always feel so guilty when I leave you guys. I don’t care what the guys say, I’m not doing anymore shows. This was my last hoorah.”

“Jace, we were fine. Don't feel guilty. This is your job. I knew what I signed up for. The tour was huge. It was amazing for all of you to give the fans a chance to see you guys perform together again. You made so many people's lives by getting back on that stage again.” I turned to face him, noticing the tired yet content look on his face. I knew as much as he didn’t want to admit it, he loved being back on stage, especially with his best friends.

I moved to his lap, straddling him. He rested his hands on either side of my thighs, looking at me intently before kissing my lips tenderly.

“I know. The fans made it all worth it. Thanks for being so supportive. I love you, Layla Marie.” 

“I love you too, Joshua Scott.”

I rested my head on his chest as he circled his arms around me. I stayed there just listening to the soft beating of his heart, thinking about all the things that have happened to lead up to this point.  The good, the bad, the ugly. The heartbreaks we have both experienced, the long distances, the expected and the unexpected. It was all worth it.