It had started to rain outside.  Chloe could hear the rain hitting the windows.  It was a soft sound, barely audible over the pounding in her chest.  Her heartbeat was fast and deep.  There was just something about sitting there, in front of the fire, half naked with Justin looking back at her that was making her anxious. 

She needed to relax.  This was her birthday.  It was supposed to be fun, and it was, to a degree, but given what had just happened and the conversation that had just transpired her thoughts and emotions were all over the place.  It didn’t help that Justin was still essentially naked in front of her.  Yes, he was under the blankets again, as was she, but he was still exposed from the waist up.  So was Chloe.  Her bra was back in place but her panties were tangled up in the blankets somewhere, where exactly she wasn’t sure but right then, her panties were not her focus.

Chloe’s focus was Justin.  He was sitting close.  Very close.  So close that she could feel his warm breath on her face.  His blue eyes were swimming.  He was leaning on one hand, supporting his weight while the other reached to touch her face.

Justin could see the way her breathing had quickened and the way she was biting her bottom lip the way she did when she was nervous.  He understood.  She’d been living in Survival Mode for a long time.  Her fight or flight response was still active.  It was going to take time for her to find a new normal.  As much as he wanted her to relax and take comfort in him, he completely understood that her defense mechanisms and the walls she’d put up to protect herself and Gabby weren’t easily shut off or removed. 

“What’s going on in that pretty head of yours?’ Justin asked quietly.

Chloe shook herself from her thoughts.  His smooth, sultry voice breaking her from her trance.

“Hmm?”

Justin cracked a soft smile.  “I just wondered what you were thinking about?”

Chloe sighed then took a steadying breath.  “Nothing.  Everything.  Too many things.”

“Care to share?”

Chloe swallowed hard.  “I wouldn’t want to scare you.”

Justin brushed the hair from her face, letting his fingertips linger on the tiny scar on her brow, the scar from the accident, then he looked deep into her eyes and dropped his voice to an audible whisper.

“Try me.”

Chloe blushed and bit her lip.  There was that “trust” thing again.  She looked at him.  Her eyes were wide.  His were sincere.  There was no doubt in her mind about that.  And then, if only to drive his point home, Adam’s words from earlier in the day echoed in her brain:

 “Stop! Stop second guessing! Stop playing the “what if” game!  Stop waiting for the other shoe to drop! 

As much as her inner demons were trying to convince her otherwise, Adam was right.  She was free!!  There was no longer anything or anyone standing between her and Justin, or her happiness.  She needed to start embracing that.  She needed to start allowing herself to LIVE again.

“This is going to sound completely ridiculous…”

Justin smiled and shook his head.  “I seriously doubt that.”

“I’m free!  I have nothing holding me back anymore! No reason to keep my guard up.  No real reason to doubt myself.  I have a job that I love, a supportive and caring family, a beautiful and amazing daughter…AND…a pretty INCREDIBLE boyfriend and I guess…I am still trying to wrap my head around that…and by “that” I mean the idea that I get to “celebrate” and be happy!”

Justin leaned forward and popped a kiss on her lips, whispering as he pulled away.  “Not ridiculous at all.”

She smiled and he continued.  “I mean, it’s only been about 24 hours since Eddy turned himself in, things are still fresh.  I get that.  I don’t think anyone expects you to just flip the switch that quickly, but I am definitely willing to help in any way I can.”

Chloe blushed wildly.  “Oh, you’re helping. Trust me!”

Justin laughed and popped another kiss on her lips.  Chloe loved hearing him laugh. The way his eyes twinkled and his face lit up.  It was adorable and sexy all at once. 

“Am I?”

“Yes! Definitely!  More than you know!”

“Good! I’m glad! I’ll try to keep it that way.”

Chloe giggled and returned his pop kiss.  “No arguments here.”

***

As far as birthdays went, this birthday was the best one Chloe had in a very long time.  However, all good things must come to an end…at least to some degree.  After a perfectly wonderful birthday spent with her family and Justin, Chloe had to go to work on Wednesday.  Typically, Wednesday was a day off but given her new position and her need to make up for the fact that she’d taken her birthday off and was planning to take Thursday, the day of the show at Madison Square Garden off she needed to log some hours.  True, her position was a salary position but she was also new to the Head of Trauma title and therefore wanted to make a good impression. 

Adam had work as well and Gabby had school, but there was a plan for the evening.  Given that Justin was in town and was free for most of the day the plan was for everyone to get together for dinner.  Adam was cooking.  Chloe had offered to cook but Adam was pretty insistent that he be the one to cook for the evening.  Truthfully, she knew that although they had known each other since Law school Adam was really using dinner as an excuse to impress Derek with his cooking skills. 

In all honesty, she was a bit nervous for her big brother and for herself.  Yes, she’d interacted with Derek over the phone in regards to the trial but they’d never actually met.  Adam had always been the type to keep his work life and his personal life separate.  This was a big step for her brother and after everything he’d been through over the past couple of years, she really wanted things to go well for him.  He deserved to be happy just as much as she did.

Chloe finished up for the day at around 3, then headed for Gabby’s school to pick her up.  Meanwhile, Adam was headed for home to start dinner and get things ready.  At about 3:15 the doorbell rang and Adam nearly jumped from his skin. 

Chloe wouldn’t ring the doorbell, neither would Gabby, not even if she was goofing off and Derek wasn’t due to come over until 6.  Thank goodness he’d already changed out of his work clothes and was dressed again.

Adam’s eyes widened and a small smirk started to spread across his lips when he opened the door.  Justin was on the other side.

“You’re early…dinner isn’t until 6” Adam chuckled holding the door for Justin.

Justin grinned and for a moment Adam thought he saw the pop superstar blush a bit too.

“I…umm…I was in the area…had some things I needed to take care of…thought it was silly to go home just to come back again.”

Adam just smiled and shook his head.  There was something about the look in Justin’s eyes.  If he didn’t know any better Adam would think Justin was up to something.  What that something might be, well, Adam had his suspicions but he wasn’t ready to share.

“Hmm?! Things?! Not my business, but ok.  Chloe should be here soon.  She was headed to pick up Gabby on her way home.”

This time Adam was positive that Justin was blushing.  “Uhhh…that’s ok…I sort of wanted to talk to you privately anyway.”

Adam could barely contain his grin by this point.  He had a feeling where this was headed but he didn’t want to assume anything just yet.

“C’mon in…we can chat while I start dinner…would you like a beer?”

“Love one.” Justin replied as he followed Adam to the kitchen.

Once inside the kitchen Adam headed for the fridge.  He pulled two cold beers from inside then retrieved a bottle opener from one of the drawers.  He popped the top on both before sliding one across the counter towards Justin.

Miraculously, it didn’t spill and Justin caught it easily.

“Thanks.” Justin managed before taking a long sip.

“Sure thing.  Now, what’s up Timberlake?”

Justin chuckled awkwardly.  Adam was definitely a no bullshit, get straight to the point type of guy.  Then again, he was a lawyer, so it made sense.

“Umm…what makes you think something is up?”

Adam laughed.  “This isn’t an interrogation, you’re not on the witness stand, I promise.  I just know that look.”

“What look?”

Adam took another sip of his beer and averted his gaze by pulling pans from a cupboard.  He was trying to smother a smile so Justin wouldn’t see.  Truthfully, if this conversation was headed in the direction Adam suspected it might be he couldn’t be happier about it.

“Really Timberlake?!  Playing dumb doesn’t suit you, because I know you’re not.   I’m a lawyer.  A big part of my job is reading body language and facial expressions.  You can learn a lot about a witness, plaintiff or defendant by watching non-verbal cues, and right now, yours are telling me you want to ask or tell me something that you don’t want my sister to know.  At least not yet.  Not to mention that you pretty much said as much at the door and well, my sister did come home yesterday GLOWING and looking happier than she has in almost 2 years …so…yeah…my brilliant skills of deduction are telling me something is up.”

By this point Adam had turned back around to face him.  He was leaning back against the stove, his beer to his lips as he watched Justin digest what he’d just said. 

Justin couldn’t help but chuckle and shake his head.  Adam was looking out for his sister; he had been for a long time and Justin couldn’t fault him for that in the least. 

“Are you sure you’re a defense attorney?”

Adam smirked.  “Most days…but we are discussing my sister, are we not?”

Justin laughed and shook his head again.  “Remind me never to get on your bad side.”

Adam softened and smiled.  “You’re doing good so far, or at least according to Chloe you are, but if you really want this conversation to stay private you might want to get to it.”

“Right?! Umm…. well…I don’t think it’s a secret that I’m in love with your sister…”

Adam grinned a wide, Cheshire grin.  Yes, he was quite certain that this conversation was going precisely in the direction he suspected it was.

“Nope, not a secret.  I think you’ve made it pretty obvious.  She’s pretty smitten with you too…”

Justin grinned.  “Yeah, I got that much…which brings me to why…well…umm…”

“Why you wanted to talk to me.” Adam offered with a smirk.

“Yeah…umm…”

Justin was struggling.  If Adam hadn’t been so amused by the interaction, he would have found it incredibly sweet.  However, he also knew that Chloe would be home at any minute so in the interest of time, and sparing Justin additional discomfort Adam decided to offer the younger man a life line.

“Do you want some help?”

Justin breathed a sigh of relief.  He had a feeling that Adam already knew where this was going, or at least that was what he was hoping for.

“Please.” Justin managed to reply.

Adam grinned and took a final swig from his beer before setting it down on the counter in front of him, between him and Justin.  For Justin’s benefit he was trying to hide his complete and utter joy regarding this conversation.  He was trying to stay calm, to appear unaffected, but inside he was squealing with delight.

“Alright, because I actually like you, I’m going to help you out, but if you say anything to my sister, I will deny this conversation ever happened until my last breath.”

Justin laughed and nodded. “Got it.”

Adam smiled at Justin.  He felt ready to explode so he could only imagine what Justin was feeling.  It was obvious that Justin was hanging on to his every word.   And in the next moment everything Adam wanted to say came tumbling out.

“Chloe’s ring size is a size 6.  No, you don’t have to ask our father for permission.  She’s a grown ass woman who is perfectly capable of making her own decisions. She’ll probably be put off if you do. If you really feel the need to ask someone for permission, I would advise you to ask Gabby.  Yes, she will consent to signing a pre-nup, because she is a smart woman and will do what is necessary to protect herself and Gabby, especially when you consider everything you BOTH bring to the table.  No, she probably won’t take your name, not when she just got her maiden name back.  And don’t propose at one of your shows or on Valentines’ Day.  Not if you want her to say “yes.”

Justin’s jaw fell open.  Apparently, Adam was more intuitive than even he realized.

“How did you…”

Adam laughed.  “I’m not dumb either…and like I said…you have that look.”

Justin laughed and nodded. “I didn’t realize I was that transparent.”

Adam bit his lip.  It was his turn to feel a bit embarrassed.  “You’re not.  I’m just that perceptive…and well…truth?”

Justin gave Adam a questioning look.  The expression was not one Justin had seen from Adam before.

“Of course.”

Adam smiled bashfully.  “I’ve been rooting for you since the day Chloe brought that bouquet you sent home.”

“Three whole days…wow…”

Adam smirked and shook his head.  “Not that bouquet.  That one is still in her office.”

Suddenly, Justin’s eyes were wide.  Realization had set in.  Adam wasn’t being sarcastic he was being sincere, and he was talking about the bouquet Justin had sent before he’d met Chloe.

“Oh!” Justin whispered. “Uhh…WOW…thanks…I don’t…”

Adam grinned.  “No thanks needed.  You make my sister happy.  That’s enough…but umm…since…we are talking…I was wondering…I mean…I know you haven’t formally met yet…”

Justin chuckled.  “Of course, you can bring Derek to the show.  Consider it done.”

“Thanks.” Adam said grinning.

It was then that Chloe and Gabby’s voices began to float through the house.

Justin immediately looked to Adam, his eyes silently pleading.

Adam smiled and nodded.  “Not a word.  I promise.”

Justin nodded silently and smiled.  His eyes were saying “thank you” because his lips couldn’t. 

Chloe’s eyes lit up when she saw Justin.  Meanwhile, Gabby was already tackling Justin in a hug!

“Justin!” Gabby squealed happily.

Justin grinned and swooped Gabby up into his arms.  “Hey there! How’s my favorite girl?”

“I thought Mommy was your favorite girl?” Gabby asked, not missing a beat.

Chloe raised an eyebrow then gave Justin a wink.  Meanwhile Adam was laughing and shaking his head as he busied himself with the pots again.

“Proceed with caution Timberlake...there is absolutely NO right way to respond to that.”

“Your mommy is not a girl…she’s a woman…and she is definitely my favorite one of those…but as I said, you are definitely my favorite girl!”

“Nice save.” Chloe giggled.

“I stand corrected.  Nicely done.” Adam laughed.

“I try.” Justin chuckled before setting Gabby back down.

“You’re here early.  Not that I am complaining.” Chloe quipped.

“I was in the area.”

“Oh?!” Chloe replied, her eyes tracking to both Justin and Adam.

Neither looked suspicious but her gut was telling her that there was more happening than either man was letting on.

“Yeah, just taking care of some stuff before I have to leave town again.”

Chloe gave Justin a puzzled look but then quickly diverted her attention back to her brother. 

“I forgot to ask this morning.  What are you cooking?”

Adam grinned and nodded to the crockpot on the counter.   Justin looked too.  Until that moment he’d completely missed that it was even there.   Then again, his thoughts had been a bit pre-occupied since his arrival.

“Can’t you tell?”

Chloe took a moment for the aroma to sink in and then her eyes went wide.

“You’re making Grandma’s Braciole?!”

Adam smirked. “It worked on Justin.”

Justin chuckled and Chloe blushed.  “I’m not picking one over the other, so don’t ask.  I will not be responsible for that battle.”

Chloe giggled.  “That’s sweet Justin…but trust me…his is better.”

Justin smiled.  “Like I said, I’m not commenting one way or the other.  I know better.”

“Smart man.” Adam teased.

At precisely 6:00 p.m. the doorbell rang again, and for a moment a flicker of panic flashed on Adam’s features.  Chloe smiled and stepped up to her brother, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder.

“Relax.  It’s going to be fine.  He likes you, that’s all that matters.”

Adam took a steadying breath then looked down at his sister.  She had definitely come a long way in the past two years.  She looked happy.  She was right.  It was his turn now.

“I should get that.” Adam said nodding.

Chloe shook her head and patted him again on the shoulder.  “You finish in here.  I will get the door.”

And before Adam could argue Chloe was headed for the door.  Her jaw dropped for a moment when she opened it and saw the man on the other side.  He was dressed casually in a pair of jeans and tennis shoes.  His shirt, a light blue button down that made his blue eyes seem even bluer.  His hair a dirty blonde/brown.  He was very handsome but not at all what she had expected.

For years she had teased Adam about his obsession with JC Chasez, even more now that she was dating Justin but nothing could have prepared her for this.  He didn’t look like JC.  Not one bit.  In fact, the only similarity between Derek and JC was the blue eyes.  Adam had always been a sucker for blue eyes.  She couldn’t fault him for that.  She was too.  Justin was proof of that.  However, he did remind her of a boyband member.  Just not the boyband she’d expected.

“You must be Chloe.”

Chloe snapped herself from her thoughts and looked back down at Derek.  He was holding a bottle of wine in one hand and juggling two bouquets in the other.

Chloe felt her cheeks go slightly warm and she nodded.  She felt bad for staring but the resemblance was just uncanny. 

“Yes, hi, I’m Chloe.  I’m sorry…please…come in.  It’s nice to finally meet you, Derek.”

“You too, and thanks for having me.  I have to admit I’ve been looking forward to this all week. Oh yeah…these are for you.” He said, handing over one of the bouquets.

It was a Spring mix of flowers.  Roses, Daisies, lilies.  It was bright and beautiful and a very sweet gesture.  Chloe couldn’t help but notice the other bouquet he was holding was just roses.  Beautiful red, dark pink, light pink and white roses.  She knew they must be for Adam.

“Thank you.  These are gorgeous, but extremely un-necessary.”

Derek bit his lip.  “Well, it is your house so …”

Chloe smiled.  “True, my name is on the deed but Adam does pay rent so it’s his place too, but again, I appreciate the gesture.”

There was a brief, awkward pause.  Neither really wanted to mention Eddy or the case but there was no escaping it either.

“I’m glad things worked out the way they did.” Derek offered.

“Me too.  I know it was a lot of work for nothing on your part but …”

“No way.  Trial or not it was a great learning experience.  Actually, I’m relieved it didn’t go to trial.  I’ve dealt with high profile cases before…but…umm…your…”

Chloe giggled.  “My boyfriend?! Yeah, I’m still getting used to that too…”

“I can imagine…I mean, I really can’t but I can.  Adam said he was going to be here tonight.”

Chloe nodded and smiled.  Derek really did seem like a nice guy.

“He’s in the kitchen with Adam.  Are you…umm…”?

“Am I a fan?!” Derek chuckled.

“I know, it’s weird, right?!”

Derek shook his head and grinned.  “Not at all.  I mean, maybe a little, but I’ve always been of the opinion that celebrity or not, we’re all human, but to answer your question, “yes” I am a fan.  Admittedly I was more in to Joey back in the day but I’m not going to lie…I’ve been to a JT show or two.”

Chloe had to bite her lip to smother her grin.  The fact that Derek had basically just admitted he had a “type” was not lost on her.  True, Adam was a bit more toned than Joey Fatone but he wasn’t a little guy.

“Joey Fatone, huh?!” Chloe teased.

Derek blushed.  “Yeah, I know. I know.  What can I say?”

Chloe laughed.  “No judgement here.  I promise.  C’mon, come on back…before Adam sends in the cavalry.”

“Cavalry?! Do you mean Gabby?”

“Or Justin.”

“He would, wouldn’t he?!” Derek laughed.

“Definitely.”

Chloe entered the kitchen with Derek in tow and as soon as they entered Justin’s jaw dropped to the floor.  Derek was NOT AT ALL what he had pictured and he was definitely going to give Adam shit about it.

“I’m SO telling JC!” Justin snickered.

“Why?” Adam mused.

Justin grinned devilishly.  “Umm…cause you’re essentially cheating on him with another boyband.”

Derek laughed.  “I know what you’re going to say…you think I look like…”

“Joe McIntyre…umm…yeah…you could be his twin…”

“I know, right?! It’s crazy.” Chloe added giggling.

“Not the first time I’ve heard that.  Probably not the last either.  I get it a lot actually, especially now that he and his family live in the city.  Nice guy.”

Justin couldn’t help but chuckle and shake his head.  “Never met him, but that’s what I hear.  The Knight brothers on the other hand, them I’ve met…obviously.  Probably two of the humblest guys I’ve ever met.”

Adam’s face lit up.  “That’s right! I forgot Jordan opened for *NSYNC.”

“Wow! That was a LONG time ago…wow…I had forgotten about that until just now.  That must have been so weird for him, opening up for you guys.” Chloe chimed in.

Justin shrugged.  “If it was, he didn’t make a big deal about it.  He was cool.  Kind of quiet but a really nice guy.  We don’t keep in touch but Joey and Chris are friends with Joe and well…it’s not public knowledge…so you can’t tell anyone I told you, but Lance is going to be in one of their music videos.”

Until then Gabby had been quiet.  Politely observing and letting the adults chat but her curiosity was getting the better of her.

“Excuse me…” Gabby started politely, a sweet smile on her face.

Four pairs of eyes slid over to her, and as soon as she knew that everyone’s attention was focused on her she continued, letting her questions tumble out in a rush.

“Who is Joe McIntyre and who are the Knight brothers? And what music video is Lance going to be in?”

Derek’s eyes went wide, then fell on Adam. He couldn’t resist teasing just a bit.  Gabby had given him the perfect opportunity, and, well, he could tell that Adam was struggling with nerves so he was hoping this would relax him a little.

 “Adam?! I have to admit I’m shocked and a little disappointed.  You haven’t educated your niece about the OG of boybands?”

Justin laughed.  “You’re a Blockhead, aren’t you?”

Derek chuckled and nodded.  “Guilty as charged.  Jordan Knight was my first celebrity crush.  Your buddy Fatone was my 2nd.”

Justin laughed more and shook his head.  This conversation was not what he’d expected when he’d agreed to come to dinner but it was definitely entertaining.  Truth be told, a lighthearted and fun conversation after the intense one he’d had with Adam earlier was just what he needed right then. 

“What’s a Blockhead?” Gabby interjected confused.

This time it was Chloe who laughed and shook her head.  “A Blockhead is what they call really big New Kids on the Block fans.”

“New Kids on the Block?”

“Oh Adam?! Really?!”

Adam, however, didn’t bat any eye.  He just looked at Derek, a flirtatious smile on his lips and shot it right back at him.  “Well, I guess that just means you need to come around more often now, don’t you?”

The back-and-forth banter between Adam and Derek was fun to watch. 

“Tell you what, I know tickets went on sale months ago but I bet if I talked to Chris, Joey or Lance, they could get us all tickets.  I mean…if you wanted to go.” Justin teased.

Gabby, being Gabby and her mother’s daughter as well as her uncle’s niece seized the opportunity when it presented itself.

“Do you think Chris, Joey or Lance could get us tickets to an *NSYNC show too?!”

Immediately, Chloe, Adam and Derek busted up laughing.  Meanwhile, Justin could only blush a bit and shake his head.  She was definitely her mother’s daughter and he absolutely loved her for it.

“One tour at a time kid.  Let me get through this one.”

“After?!”

Justin chuckled and tried not to look at Chloe or Adam when he answered.  He did not want to accidentally give himself or his plans away prematurely.

“Umm…well…I’ve got some things I am working on after the tour wraps up…BUT…we are discussing the possibility.”

Gabby grinned and nodded, seeming to be satisfied with his response.  “Ok, I can accept that answer.  I have tomorrow to look forward to first anyway.”

Adam laughed and nodded.  “I think we can all accept that answer but please, Justin, if there is anything we can do to help encourage certain individuals in that discussion let us know.”

“I’ll keep you posted.”

Adam then turned Derek.  He was excited about taking him to the show and couldn’t wait to see the reaction on his face.

“Speaking of tomorrow, Derek, would you like to go to the Justin Timberlake concert at Madison Square Garden with us tomorrow night?”

“Really?!”

Adam grinned.  “Really! BUT…there would be no Barstool VIP…”

Justin smirked.  “Well…technically…there is a bar at my shows but no, I’ve seen the stage set-up for New Kids…it’s nothing like that.”

“I think I’ll manage.” Derek laughed.

***

Thursday was concert day and EVERYONE in the De Luca house was excited.  The initial plan was that everyone would go about their day as normal until about noon.  At noon Chloe would pick up Gabby from school and Adam would come home and then everyone would meet up and leave for the show at about 2.  That HAD been the initial plan. 

However, at 5:30 a.m. that morning Chloe stumbled into the kitchen to find Adam already awake and pouring coffee.

“Couldn’t sleep?” Adam asked as he reached for a 2nd cup.

Chloe grinned and shook her head.  “No. You either?”

“Nope. I’ve been up for about an hour.”

“Excited?”

Adam smirked.  “You’re not?!”

Chloe giggled then swatted at her older brother.  “Oh, I totally am!  Who knew when you bought me tickets for my birthday that THIS is how it would turn out?”

Adam laughed out loud at this.  “THESE are NOT the tickets I bought you.”

“Yeah, ok, what did you do with those anyway?”

Adam smiled.  He knew Chloe would have absolutely no problem with what he’d done with the initial tickets. 

“Donated them to the PTO auction at Gabby’s school.”

“Oh yeah?! Wow!  That’s a really good idea.”

Adam chuckled and shook his head a bit.  “Yeah, then I think a group of the parents in Gabby’s class got together and bid on them for Gabby’s teacher.”

Chloe beamed.  “OH MY GOD!  Does Gabby know?”

“Yeah!  She told me and Justin yesterday while you were greeting Derek at the door. She said Ms. Hawkins came into class after lunch near tears because she was so excited.  Then, Justin said he was going to make sure Ms. Hawkins had a good time.”

Chloe smiled.  “He’s so sweet.”

Adam chuckled and nodded.  “He is.  Aren’t you glad you listened to your big brother?”

“Listened to you? About what?”

Adam made a face.  “Umm…about giving him a chance, about him wanting to find you, about him being interested…should I keep going?”

“Ok, Smart Ass…yeah, you were right.”

“I’ll be sure to mark this day on my calendar for future reference, you know, because you admitting I was right is something I want to remember.”

Chloe just laughed and shook her head then reached for the cup of coffee he was offering to her. 

“Are you going to work today?” Chloe asked before taking a sip.

Adam took a sip from his cup as well and shook his head.  “Nah! I have sick days!  And…well…not going to lie…I wouldn’t be able to concentrate anyway.  What about you?”

Chloe blushed wildly.  “Umm…I may or may not have called in a few favors and am now taking the day off too.”

Adam grinned.  “I don’t blame you in the least…if I was going to my SUPER HOT and RIDICULOUSLY TALENTED boyfriend’s concert at Madison Square Garden tonight, I’d be taking the day off too!”

“Speaking of your super-hot boyfriend…”

“Hey now!” Adam teased.

“No worries big brother, I’ll stay in my lane.  I was just going to say…it’s good to see you happy.  He suits you.”

Adam took another sip of his coffee, admittedly, it was to hide his blush but Chloe had a point.

“I really like him…I mean…I’ve always liked him…we’ve always been friends but…with him…”

Chloe nodded and gave her brother a reassuring smile.  “I get it! Believe me!  With him it just works.  You feel comfortable…like you can be yourself.  He has a way of calming you, even when he is the reason you’re nervous.”

Adam grinned.  He knew that his sister was speaking from experience.

“Exactly!  You sound like you know.”

Chloe blushed.  “I do!”

“Thought so…”

“So…when is he coming over?”

“I don’t know…what’s your plan…is Gabby going to school today?”

Chloe took another long sip of her coffee and shook her head.  “No.  I don’t think so.  I mean, I’ll give her the option, but I was thinking since today is her actual birthday we would do something fun like go get our nails and hair done before the show.”

“That sounds fun!  I think she would LOVE it!”

Chloe nodded.  “Yeah. Me too.  Do you and Derek want to meet us for lunch after?”

“Sounds like a good plan.”

“What are you wearing?”

“Excuse me?”

Adam snorted and laughed.  “What are you wearing to the show?”

“Oh…umm…I don’t know.  Nothing fancy.  I’m trying to keep a low profile.  I don’t think many of his fans know about me yet…”

Adam laughed and snorted again. “I highly doubt that’s accurate.  JT fans are hardcore.  There are photos of you…in public…together.  I guarantee that a pretty significant number of the really dedicated ones know exactly who you are.”

“You think?”

Adam grinned.  “I know.”

“How?”

Adam smirked.  “There’s this thing…it’s called social media…I do use it from time to time.  Not to mention when your little sister starts dating one of the MOST popular Male recording artists of all time you keep tabs on that shit!”

“That’s great but I don’t have time for Social media.” Chloe huffed.

“Well, I do…trust me…the fans know about you.”

“Awesome!” Chloe grumbled sarcastically.

***

As Chloe suspected, Gabby jumped at the opportunity to go get her nails and hair done before the show.  It was a great Mother-daughter bonding experience and the perfect start to Gabby’s birthday as well as a way to unwind before the real excitement began.  Meanwhile, Adam and Derek spent the morning together as well before meeting up with Gabby and Chloe for a late lunch/early dinner. 

Chloe couldn’t help but laugh when she saw the way both men were dressed.  Adam was wearing nice jeans, tennis shoes and a vintage *NSYNC t-shirt circa the Pop Odyssey tour.  Derek, in true Blockhead fashion was wearing a vintage NKOTB shirt from the Hangin’ Tough era.  It was cute, and sweet and would definitely get a reaction out of Justin. 

Gabby had gone all out for the show, choosing to wear a pair of black leggings, tan tennis shoes and a pink buffalo plaid button down shirt.  Her fingernails had been painted a pretty pink and her hair was piled on top of her head in a high, messy bun with whisps of hair and her bangs framing her face.  In truth, she looked a lot older than six.

As she’d explained to her brother that morning about keeping a low profile, and in keeping with the jeans and t-shirt theme of her concert companions Chloe had opted for a pair of faded and distressed jeans and a V-neck “I love NYC” shirt with a denim jacket and a pair of high-top Converse sneakers for her outfit.  She just hoped Justin approved of the outfit. Her long, dark hair had been curled and styled in soft beach waves that cascaded down her back and over her shoulders.  She felt good and it was nice to not be in her scrubs or a lab coat for a whole day.

“Do you have your pass?” Chloe asked Gabby as the approached Will-Call.

Gabby pulled the lanyard from inside her shirt and held it up for her mom to see.  “All set!”

“Dang! All Access!  I feel honored.” Derek whistled through his teeth.

Chloe giggled.  “Yeah, my brother, he has a habit of spoiling the people he cares about.”

“Apparently so does your boyfriend.” Derek teased.

Chloe blushed.  “Yeah…about that…if you wouldn’t mind…keep the “boyfriend” comments on the Down low…at least for this evening. I’m not trying to get mobbed or harassed tonight…not with Gabby in tow.”

Derek smiled and nodded.  “No worries, Chloe. I got you!  Consider Adam and I your personal guards for the evening.”

After checking in at Will-call and getting their passes they were permitted inside.  There was still a couple of hours until the start of the show but as Chloe guessed it, Justin must have given instructions to let them in as soon as they arrived.

There were already fans gathered outside the arena, waiting anxiously to gain access and as they passed through the glass doors, she was almost certain she heard her name being whispered amongst a group of fans.  Apparently, anonymity was a luxury she no longer had.  She understood it came with the territory and she was fine with it so long as they left Gabby alone.  Chloe had no problem going full “Mama Bear” if needed. 

Shaking any negative thoughts from her head Chloe snapped herself back into the present and took in her surroundings.  It had been years since she’d been to a concert.  Motherhood, her career and the *NSYNC hiatus had put a damper on her Fangirl status.  The night would definitely be one to remember for a long time.  She was certain of it.

Currently, Gabby was eyeing the merch table from a short distance while Adam and Derek chatted about the opening acts.  They hadn’t even been inside two minutes when someone Chloe could only guess was a Security guard approached.

“Chloe De Luca?”

“That’s Dr. Chloe De Luca…” Adam started stepping between the man and his sister.

The man smirked a bit and shook his head.  “You must be the brother, Adam De Luca.”

“I am…and you are…”

“My name is Eric.  I am Justin’s personal security.  He asked me to come find you and bring you backstage.”

Adam softened then smiled sheepishly. “Oh.  Umm…yeah…makes sense.”

Then Eric turned his attention to Gabby, kneeling down to her level as a giant grin spread across his lips.

“And this beautiful girl must be the birthday girl, Gabby, right?”

Gabby grinned and nodded but kept quiet.

“I hear there is a cake backstage with yours and Justin’s name on it…should we go check it out?”

Again, Gabby nodded.

As they made their way backstage, following Eric down the concrete hallways various members of the Tennessee Kids smiled, waved and a few even said “hello.”

After what seemed like an eternity but in reality, was just a few minutes they arrived at what Chloe determined must be Justin’s dressing room.

Justin’s eyes lit up when they entered the room and Chloe sucked in a breath.  He looked comfortable, yet at the same time, unbelievably sexy dressed in pair of red sneakers, black jeans, a white t-shirt and a black leather jacket with the word “Memphis” on the back and the state flower of Tennessee; a white Iris.

At the moment he was sipping on a mug of hot tea.  Chloe knew it was tea because the cup was steaming and she could smell just the slightest hint of lemon and honey in the air. 

“About time.” Justin teased.

“Someone was hungry.” Chloe answered nodding to Gabby.

Justin grinned.  “Did you save room for birthday cake Gabby?”

“Definitely!”

“Awesome, let’s go get some, shall we?’ He asked offering Gabby his arm.

Adam, Derek and Chloe followed Justin through the backstage area to the Craft services/catering area which was already crowded with people.  In fact, Chloe was pretty sure that pretty much everyone associated with the tour had gathered to wish Justin a “Happy Birthday.”

Justin was about to get sentimental.

“Ahem! If I could have everyone’s attention…”

Immediately, the room got quiet.

“I just wanted to say …in case I hadn’t said it enough…thank you…thank you to all of you for making this tour so great.  Tonight, is special…it’s my birthday…we are in Madison Square Garden…but it’s not just my birthday…everyone…this lovely lady on my arm…this is Gabby…and that beautiful woman over there…that’s…”

“Chloe!” Everyone chorused.

Chloe giggled and blushed.  “He talks about me, does he?”

“Just a little.” One of the band members teased.

“It’s nice to finally meet you.” One of the dancers chimed in.

“Thanks…I’m excited for the show tonight…you all are AMAZING!!!!”

After cake and introductions Chloe and her “entourage” returned to the dressing room with Justin.  They hung out, relaxed and talked casually until Eric appeared at the door again.

“Ten minutes J.”

Then yet again, Eric directed his attention to Gabby.

“Ok Birthday girl, if you would like to bring your mom, uncle and friend and follow me I’ll show you to your spot.”

Chloe and the rest of the group stood to follow him but not before Chloe directed her attention at Justin. 

Chloe smiled at Justin and bit her lip.  “I would say “break a leg” but I don’t think that’s right…and …well, I’m off duty tonight …so…I’ll say “knock em’ dead!”

Justin chuckled and nodded.  “Works for me.”

“See you in a few?”

Justin grinned at her.  “I’ll definitely look for you!”

Minutes later Chloe, Gabby, Adam and Derek were standing in the “Pit” surrounded by fans, as the house lights went down and the arena erupted in screams.  At Justin’s request a small part of the space nearest the rail had been blocked by Security, reserving the area for his “special guests.” Security also provided Gabby with a pair of headphones to protect her ears from the volume.   Chloe was beyond grateful.

Yet again, Chloe could see people around her whispering amongst each other but she did her best to tune them out.  She was here to enjoy the show just like everyone else. 

The first song was “Filthy” and as soon as Justin stepped out on the stage Chloe felt her heart skip a beat and her breath catch in her throat.  The screams around her were deafening but her focus was Justin.  As promised, halfway through the song, just before the dance break Justin found Chloe in the crowd and winked at her.  The girls around her screamed and swooned, convinced that his gesture was meant for them.  Chloe knew better.

She watched in awe as he danced and sang to “Midnight Summer Jam.” He was definitely in his element and she absolutely loved watching him perform.  “Love Stoned” followed and throughout the whole song she and Gabby were bobbing their heads and dancing along.  Meanwhile, Adam and Derek were next to them dancing and singing along as well.

During “Sexy Back” Adam and Derek were the focus as he pointed at Adam, twerked and sang the lyric “let me see what you’re twerking with…” causing Adam to laugh and shake his head.  Then Justin stuck his tongue out at Adam causing both men to laugh more.

At the Start of “Man of the Woods” Justin made a point to address the NYC crowd but he also made a point to find Chloe again and gesture again. 

He ran across the stage to stand close to her and pointed as he sang “I brag about you to anyone outside…”

Chloe blushed and shook her head as several of the fans nearest her gave her questioning looks. 

He winked at her then proceeded to direct his attention to a few other fans so as to not completely single her out. 

Justin was a true performer, making sure to show his love for as many fans as possible at different points throughout the show.  He gave hand grabs or “Timber touches” as Chloe overheard one fan say and took selfies and just interacted as much as possible.

However, he also made it a point to show his love and attention for Chloe and Gabby as well. 

“Mommy! LOOK!” Gabby squealed as Justin danced and sang with a neon microphone in the center of the stage during “Suit & Tie”. 

Gabby’s eyes were fixed on him and her jaw was gaping open.  It was obviously Gabby’s favorite part so far.

Then, to Chloe’s complete surprise and to the shock and awe of probably everyone in the arena, after a brief intro Justin took to the center of the stage, directly in front of where Gabby and Chloe were standing and as the melody to “Mirrors” began to play he said clearly into his microphone. “This is one is for you, Gabby!”

Gabby squealed like a little Fangirl, meanwhile Chloe was near tears.  The fact that he’d dedicated this song to Gabby in front of 20,000 people meant more to Chloe than Justin could possibly ever know.

About halfway through the show Justin stopped to banter with the crowd.  He was absolutely adorable as he “apologized” for his delay and then thanked the crowd for coming out to celebrate his 38th birthday with him.  As if right on cue, from somewhere off stage a stage hand produced a tray with shots that were quickly passed around to Justin and the Tennessee Kids.  At the same time another stage hand appeared next to Adam, with another tray of shots, one for Adam, Derek and Chloe and Sprite for Gabby.  Yet again, this earned Chloe several looks from fans around her but she was having a great time and chose to ignore the stares.

Then the Tennessee Kids led the entire arena in a round of “Happy Birthday” as they presented him with a cupcake on stage.  Justin, in true Justin fashion teased his fellow entertainers about the size of the cupcake and how he paid them more than enough to afford a better cake.  Then, with a wink and a smile he passed the cupcake off to Gabby who devoured it happily in just a few bites.

The entire show was INCREDIBLE.  Justin was an AMAZING performer and the happiness and joy he felt performing again was evident.  In that moment, Chloe couldn’t have been happier or prouder.  And just as he was about to take his final bow Justin lifted his microphone to his lips, put two fingers in the air and with a smile on his face, happy tears in his eyes and sounding a bit emotional he said very clearly “New York City, thank you so much, I love you so much! Best Birthday ever! Happy Birthday Gabby! I love you, Chloe!”

It was the perfect end to the perfect evening!