The Different Sides Of Love

[Kristen07]

Hey y'all

This a story that Britt and I started. It's a Nick and Drew one, called "The Different Sides Of Love". It has a lot of twists and turns in it and we hope ya'll enjoy :)

~Kris & Britt

The Different Sides Of Love

Renee Serena Carlson stepped into her cozy apartment, pushing her brown hair of her way as she did. It had been a long day, apart form running a few errands and working at her job as a psychologist was tiring.

She picked up her cell phone, to see if she had any new messages She didn’t. Not that it was too significant; she wasn’t REALLY expecting anyone to call. Especially her fiancé, Nick Lacey.

Ah, Nick. Renee had mixed emotions when she thought of him. They had met two years ago, when he was doing a show in Los Angles. It had been instant love. Nick had given her emotions as never experience before.
The romance had been a fairytale. They had dated for almost a year and half. Nick had been everything that she had ever wanted. Very sweet, romantic, caring and loving.

And then… they got engaged. It had been 5 months ago. The night that Nick asked Renee was perfect, done in romantic fashion with a nice dinner on a patio of a restaurant and followed by a proposal. But after about a month of being engaged, his personality began to change. It was almost as if another aspect that she had never seen before had surfaced. He was a lot more nasty and secretive. They got into a lot of fights, and she was beginning to second guess why she even accepted the proposal. But, the twist was, that after the fights… Nick would tell her how much he loved her, and everything would be fine. But Renee still wasn’t sure if she could take it anymore.

She sighed. No need to depress herself about him right now. She made herself dinner and then was about to step in the shower, when the phone rang. “OH crap, who can that be?�

“Hello?� Renee tried to hide the tartness in her voice.

“Hi babe� It was Nick.

“Oh hi there� she was still bitter because the fight yesterday was particularly bitter “Thinking I’ll automatically forgive you, aren’t you, Nicholas?�

Her response seemed to have caught him off guard “Well… maybe. Are you still?�

“I’ll let you judge. So, what do you want?�

“Why, to plan our wedding.�
“Well, try again later, because I’m just not in the mood for us to have another screaming fest about that� Renee hung up. She immediately regretted being so mean. But she wasn’t in the mood to fight … again. She wished they could get to the root of the problem and figure out what was causing it. Because she was really missing how it used to be…. Before the engagement.
But for now…. She would have to put it up with it.

It always seemed that she always had the right answers for people. All her friends came to her for advice and she even ran an advice column in the school newspaper her junior and senior year of high school. But not even she had the answers for every question in life. And when she didn’t… she would call her best friend at the time Carmen Laina Opio. Carmen was the type who could make you laugh but give witty and good advice at the same time. She was the really friend type who could make friends with anybody and really outgoing, while Renee was more quiet, reserved and a listener.

Carmen was also a very good actress, and everyone always raved about her in the school plays. She also had dreams about going on Broadway. Renee really wouldn’t be surprised, since the last time she’d talked to her, Carmen had gotten into Julliard, which would really look good on her resume. But boy, could Renee use some of her witty sayings right now. But that was not be… since they had lost touch years ago, and Renee didn’t even know where Carmen was now. But she still could wish…

[Biondo Sorto]

*Kristi that's great!!! I can't add tonight (got a research paper due tomorrow) but be sure to look out for a post tomorrow :wink:*

[Biondo Sorto]

This may not be the best post I ever had but its a start, lol
~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~~*~
Carmen sighed as she stepped out of the cab. She looked down at the address in her hands again, looked up at the building, and sighed relief. After a couple of wrong turns, and a extra few bucks she had to pay the driver, she had finally found the place. She grabbed her purse, paid the driver, and crossed the street toward the large building. She walked inside, amazed by the large architect of the place. So this was it. This is what it was like to reach the big time.
"Carmen Opio." she heard a voice say. She turned around and spotted the director, a tall man with a cheeful personality, walk over to her.
"Hey, sorry I'm late. The cab driver must of been a rookie cause even he couldn't find the address. Of course, he probably did it to manage a few couple of bucks."
Dan chuckled and nodded.
"So, am I the only late bug or was there another who got lost in Manhatten traffic."
"Actually, you came a minute before your co-star Mark did. Speaking of which, it might be start to meet with him. And the rest of the cast."
"Yeah, that'd be nice." Carmen laughed as she followed Dan into the large theater. When she got there she saw a few of the cast hanging around.
"You guys." Dan said, grabbing everyone's attention.
"This is Carmen Opio. She will be playing Mimi in the play. Carmen meet your cast, Mayumi, Meri, Frenchie, D'Monroe....." he continued to introduce the cast while each member smiled and gave handshakes. Carmen started to drift off to la-la land before she heard,
"And Drew Lachey." She snapped all of her attention from her ex-boyfriend to Drew. He looked up and smiled at her before Carmen smiled back. She looked to see if he recognized her but obviously he didn't, it apparently showing in his eyes. Carmen sighed. She couldn't blame him. How long ago had it been since they last talked? Drew had been one of her first crushes; she was more concerned about her acting career than boys. They had met at Camp Wiki, and had spent a whole summer becoming friends. Not only that, Drew was her first kiss. And how magical it was. She was interrupted by her past when Dan had said,
"So I hope to be seeing you all next week for rehersals. Until then enjoy the buffet we have and become better aquainted."
Carmen smiled. She enjoyed meeting new people. She enjoyed life, and you couldn't enjoy life without enjoying the people in it. She walked over to the buffet table and immediatly started making friends with everyone. She was talk to Justin, a guy who would be portraying Angel in the play, before she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned around and saw that it was Drew.
"Yes?"
"I'm sorry, its just you really resemble someone I know, and her name is Carmen also so I was wondering....." he started to drift. Carmen smiled. So he hadn't forgotten.
"So you do remember me?"
Drews frown turned into a smile as he nodded.
"Camp Wiki."
"Underneath the first aid center."
"At twelve o'clock at night." he finished up. Carmen smiled as she leaned up to give him a hug. And boy was that the smartest thing she did. He smelled good, really good.
"How have you been. I mean outside 98 Degrees and everything."
"Pretty good. Got bored not doing anything so I decided to act."
"Acting's always fun. So I heard that you and Lea did got married, like you told me you would."
Drew's smile got even wider.
"I don't believe you even remember that."
"You planted it into my head since who know's when."
"Yeah." Drew gave a short laugh before he sighed.
"What?"
"Wanna sit down over there?" he motioned toward another section of the stage, away from the cast. Carmen nodded and followed him to the stage edge.
"Me and Lea are getting a divorce." he finally said, after a moment of silence.
"Oh....I'm sorry." Carmen said, her smile quickly turning into a frown. Drew shrugged.
"Not your fault."
"I know, its just a habit for me to say sorry if something goes wrong."
Drew shook his head and then continued to say,
"So how have you been?"
"Pretty good. I got accepted into Juliard which was cool. Three years ago I moved out to L.A. and was in a soap opera but decided that they were too dramatic for me, so decided to move back out to New York and be in Broadway and, well, here I am."
"Well looks like your dream came true."
"Sort of"Carmen sighed.
"What?"
"I never got married by the time I was 24. I'm going to be 26 soon and I'm still single. Its sort of a bummer."
"Hey, your still young. Look at me, I'm 28 and already I'm getting divorced. There's still hope for you at least."
Carmen smiled and looked up at him. That was when something ran into her mind. While she was watching TV last night, she had found out that Nick, Drew's older brother, was engaged. To a Renee. The picture looked like an 18 year old Renee that was her best friend in high school but she couldn't be sure. And they hadn't said the last name, so she only [arse]umed it was her past friend. Now with Drew next to her, she could get her question confirmed.
"Hey Drew."
"yeah?"
"Your brother, Nick."
"yeah?"
"He's engaged to a Renee. What's her last name?"
"You wanna know because....?"
"Curiousity."
"Renee Carlson, I think. Not to sure, we only met twice."
"That's horrible. She's your future sister-in-law." Carmen laughed. Drew shrugged.
"Never took the time to get to know her. But she's really nice when I did speak to her those last two times."
"Oh." Carmen said. So it was the Renee that had been her best friend in high school. They were silent for a second before she asked,
"Do you suppose I could get her number?"
Drew looked at her for a second, then asked,
"Why?"
"I just....she used to be my friend and we lost contact a few years ago and you know, I want to congratulate her."
Drew was a bit skeptical, then said,
"If you weren't my friend I wouldn't do it, but since you are, yeah, I'll get it for you."
"All right, when you do, call me at this number. And if you get my machine try my cell." she said writing both of the phone numbers down on a piece of paper. Then she handed it to Drew.
"You trust me with this?" he kidded. Carmen smiled.
"I trusted you 9 years ago, I think I can trust you know."

[Kristen07]

Here's the next one!

It was a few days later and Renee was on her lunch break. It had been a really average day, nothing special. And Renee was in a depressed mood… again. Like she was 95% of the time these days. “I really wish I could get over this depression… I’m getting kind of sick of it,� She thought.

Her cell phone went off.

“Hello?� Renee answered in her downcast tone.

“Its this Renee Carlson?� The voice sounded so vaguely familiar, but so far away. Like from her past.

“Yes it is. May I ask who this is?�

“You sound so formal, Ren. Don’t you recognize me! It’s Carmen! You know, your best friend from Ocean Isle High School?�

It finally hit Renee. It really was Carmen! A genuine smile came upon her face, the first in days. “Hey! Oh my goodness, this is such a surprise! How are you?�

“Great! And you?�

“Not too bad. I’m still really shocked, how in the world did you find me?�

“Well remember the summer I went to Camp Wiki and met a guy named Drew?�

“Was your first kiss, right?�

“Yup. We became friends that summer, but then lost contact. And so, I’ve moved back to New York after being in Los Angeles for three years after college. I’ve done so because I got a part in the Broadway play, Rent!�

This fact made Renee happy. “I knew you would be on Broadway, Carmen! If I ever get the time, I will come out and see it! But I’m still not seeing the connection…�

Carmen laughed. “You’ve got to let me finish my story, silly!�

Renee laughed as well. “I guess I do. Go on�

“And a few nights ago, I went to the cast introduction, and then… I see Drew there! At first, I didn’t think he recognized me, and I really wouldn’t have been surprised… it had been so long ago since we last saw each other. But when we were eating the buffet dinner provided, he came up to me and we started talking.� Carmen paused “And then, I remembered that the night before I had seen on TV the night before, that his brother, Nick, was engaged to a Renee. They didn’t say the last name, but the picture they showed looked so much like you. So, I asked Drew what your last name was, and when he said Carlson, I knew it was you�

Renee remembered Drew. He was a nice guy and pretty funny. But she really didn’t know him too well; she had only seen him twice. And she never had given him her number. “So, did you ask him to get my number from Nick?�

“Yep, and he did because I wouldn’t be talking to you now if he didn’t!� They both laughed. “So, enough about me, what are you doing now?�

“I’m a psychologist here in Los Angeles� Renee told her.

“Sounds like you, you always had the answers for people’s problems. So do you like it?�

“Not always� Renée thought sadly. �I love it; it’s a good job. And everyone likes me and they tell me I’m really easy to talk to and they feel a lot better after their session with me.�

“That’s great. But don’t you do research and some stuff like that, too?�

“Yep. But not all the time.� Renee sighed a heavy sigh.

“There’s something bothering you, Ren. What is it?� Carmen sounded concerned.

She looked at her watch. She had to be back in the office in 15 minutes, she didn’t have time to talk about it now. “I don’t have time now, I need to get back the office. When’s a good time to call you?�

“Well, practice runs from 10 to 10 6 days a week, and sometimes later. But probably sometime after 11 would be fine�
“All right, I’ll talk to you then.�

“See ya lata, Soul Sistah!� Renee smiled. They used to say that all the time.

“Bye�

~Later that night~

“So, what’s on your mind, Ren?� Carmen asked.

“Believe it or not, it’s my engagement to Nick� Renee said sadly.

“Are you crazy? What’s to be depressed about that? You are engaged to one of the hottest men on the planet that most women would DIE to even meet. And he seemed to be a great guy, too�

Renee laughed. “I wish it was like that still. I met him two years ago, at one of his solo shows. Oh, how I remember how he looked that night. He had on a blue t-shirt that fit him just perfectly and jeans that made his butt look good. Damn, he was sexy�

She could imagine Carmen shake her head. “You always remember those little details�

“Well, he did! We dated for a year and a half, and it was paradise. He was the best boyfriend I had ever dated, a real romantic like me, really sweet, caring, charming, sensitive… everything I wanted. And then he proposed 5 months ago. That night was great too! But then… He seemed to revert personalities on me… I don’t understand why�

“Like, how does he act now?�

“He’s a lot more secretive and nasty to me. We have these shouting matches… but then afterwards he apologizes and tells me that he loves me. But I’m not too sure if I should believe it,� Tears came in Renee’s eyes

“I’m sorry. I really don’t know what to tell you except sit down with him and to figure out what’s giving you these troubles.�

“I wish we could… but we can’t. I’ve tried it already… it won’t work… we end up fighting again. I still wonder why in the world I accepted his proposal.�

“Because, deep beneath these troubles, there’s still a deep love for each other. You both know that, you just can’t communicate to each other now. You’ll be going through as a married couple too.� Carmen yawned. “I’m really tired, Renee. I’m going to bed�

“All right. Thanks for listening, Carmen. You’re a great friend�

“Your welcome. Goodnight�

[Biondo Sorto]

Carmen woke up the next morning in a good mood. A really good mood. She was cleaning up and dancing around her loft/apartment when she heard her doorbell go off. Thinking it was an idle neighbor coming to tell her to turn down her music, she immediatly walked over to the door. When she opened it, she thought twice. She was wearing small short's with Eeyore on it and a matching spagetti strapped shirt, and was flushed to see Drew on the other side, looking up and down her body.
"Hey drew." She replied embr[arse]ed. Normally she didn't care what people thought of her body; with Drew around she felt ten times foolish then the normal.
"Hey Carm, wake up in a good mood?" he asked, when his eyes had finally reached her eyes.
"Yeah." she blushed gritting her teeth. She was happy to see Drew, but not in this state.
"So what are you doing here?" she said crossing her arms across her chest. She knew she wasn't wearing a bra and felt a bit self conscience. Oh why did she have the tendacy to answer the door in her pajamas?
"I was out shopping, and remembered you telling me last night that you lived around her. So I decided to drop by and say hi, and boy am I glad I did."
Carmen rolled her eyes as she widened the door.
"Drew just come in."
"Is this an invitation?" he asked, raising a brow. Carmen blushed more, flustered. Why was it that Drew was the only guy that could get to her?
"No.......we can talk. I doubt you want to stand in the hallway while I get dressed." she gritted through her teeth.
Drew laugh and shook his head.
"I know that. Just thought I'd kid with you."
"Right." Carmen sighed. Drew walked toward the living room while Carmen changed into some sweats and wifebeater. Wasn't much but at least she wouldn't feel as exposed. She walked into the living room and saw Drew looking around, glancing at pictures before saying,
"Nosy much?"
He turned around smiled, and pointed toward a picture that was on a nearby table.
"You still kept this?"
Carmen walked over and examined the picture. She smiled. It was the last picture that her and Drew had taken. It was on the last day of camp, and two weeks before Drew had asked her out. Since they knew they wouldn't be seeing each other, they had decided to make clay picture frames hoping that the picture inside would bring happy memories. Carmen was sitting on his lap, and both of their hands were on the clay machine. They had clay everywhere, but both were to distracted to notice.
"Yeah." Carmen replied, sort of embr[arse]ed. She wouldn't be suprised if he threw his away.
"Me too." he said, taking a seat.
"really?"
"Yeah." Drew shrugged.
"Kudos!" Carmen smiled. Drew shook his head, and they fell into an awkward silence. After a while Drew asked,
"Talk to Renee?"
"Yeah, she's doing really good. However I'm a bit concerned."
"Why?" Drew asked concerned.
"Well, it seems that her and Nick's engagement isn't doing as well as I thought it would."
"What do you mean?"
"She said they've been fighting a lot ever since the engagement. She say's the most wierd and awkward thing about it is that Nick always tells her that he loves her after they fight. I don't know, I'm just sort of concerned." Carmen sighed frustrated. Mostly because she couldn't give her friend a more logically explanation than what she had said the previous night. There had to be a real reason why it was happening.
Drew sighed.
"What?" Carmen asked, looking over at him.
"I think I know what's happening."
"What?"
"Before Nick met Renee, he met this girl, Jessica."
"Uh huh."
"And you know it was all good, and they even got married but toward the middle of their marriage Jessica started to cheat on him. Eventually Nick wised up and got divorced, but Jessica was mad. Really mad. He decided to be mutal friends...but she still pressed a relationship and one day Nick told her off and they lost contact. Then Nick met Renee, and god he's in love with Renee. But now him and Jessica have been paired off to go on tour together. Nick still gets sore just thinking about her. No doubt, she's pressing a relationship again. I don't know for a fact but that's my guess."
Carmen nodded. It was all making sense.
"So Nick's scared that Jessica is going to find about Renee and something bad is going to happen?"
"Yeah."
Carmen nodded again.
"Thanks Drew. You just found the last piece to a puzzle that has been troubling me since last night." Drew laughed and shook his head.
"Guess I owed ya since I saw you in your Eeyore attire."
Carmen blushed once more and pushed him.
"Shut-up."
"And its so cute on you." he said, pushing her back.
"Shut-up Andrew John, I'm warning you."
"Aww, is Carmen mad because Drew found her very attractive in her Eeyore spankies."
"That's it." Carmen yelled, pushing Drew down on the couch. They wrestled around for a bit, tickling each other and such, until Drew had pinned her down. Carmen stopped laughing and looked up at him. He slowly bent down and kissed her. At first it was small innocent pecks, but eventually it became into a heavy make-out session. Once they both pulled away, Drew whispered,
"I've been wanting to do that since I've seen you again."
Carmen smiled and gave him another a kiss before saying,
"Well I've been waiting silly."
He smiled as he got off of her and helped her up.
"Well in that case, how about I take you out to dinner tonight?"
Carmen thought about this and replied,
"all right, does seven sound all right?"
"Perfect." he smiled as she walked him to the door.
"See you then."
"Bye." he said, planting a soft on her lips before disappering down the hall. Carmen closed the door and leaned against it before running over to the phone. She had to call Renee. A couple of rings went by and finally she heard,
"Hello?"
"Rea, guess what!!" She yelled into the phone.
"Let me guess, Carmen."
"Yes, now guess what?"
"What?"
"GUESS!?"
"I don't know."
"DREW KISSED ME!" she screamed, falling on the couch. It still smelled of his cologne, and Carmen fell into silly happiness again.
"What? That man must be some kisser." Renee joked.
"Oh he is, and let me tell you that he got better over the years."
"Gross, to much info."
"Sorry." Carmen blushed, then remembered the other reason why she had called her friend.
"Rea, I need to tell you something that drew told me earlier."
"Shoot."
"Bang."
"Carm." Renee said in what Carmen knew a smile.
"All right, seriously, its about Nick. I know why he's been acting that way."
"And?" Renee asked anxiously. Carmen proceeded to tell Renee the problem.
"So you see, its not entirely his fault." she finished. Renee sighed.
"Thanks Carm, I owe you."
"I'm getting hooked up with your fiance's brother, I think you've already paid your debt."
"Yeah but still."
"Well you could always come out here and see me opening night."
"We'll see. I'm gonna call Nick. We need to talk."
"You do that. And don't forget to call, I want to know all of the details."
"I know, see ya girl."
"Bye soul sistah." Carmen said hanging up the phone. She laid on the couch in happy silence before popping out of bed.
"[bad word], I dont' have anything to wear." she yelled, already making her way toward her back closet.

[Biondo Sorto]

Kris just wondering....when are you gonna add?

[Kristen07]

Tonight I hope.... I've had too much homework and just not evnough time. But tonight i think I will be able to, I apologize for rthe wait :)

[Biondo Sorto]

Its al right Kris, I was just wondering what was going on. :) I haven't been on since yesterday and was a bit curious. Take your time if need be :D

[Kristen07]

Here's the next update, hope y'all enjoy! :)

Renee felt really confused as she hung up with Carmen. So that’s why he had been in such a foul mood lately. But she still couldn’t see why he had failed to mention it to her. “I guess it has been because we keep going at each other’s throats,� She thought miserably.
Renee knew that Nick and Jessica had been married, and that it was a painful divorce. But, once they had started dating, she had never come up in their relationship. And since they were on tour… this would a perfect opportunity for Jessica to cause up a media stir, among other ones to steal Nick from her. But Nick had told her at the beginning that he didn’t love her anymore and that had faded away a long time ago. That fact still stood… didn’t it? Well, only one way to find out.

But before she could do that, another person called her.

“Hello?�

“Hey sis!� It was Renee’s 23-year-old sister, Kayleigh. “How are you?�

“Great, yourself?�

The two women chatted for awhile, until Renee told her about the situation with Nick.

“I would definitely talk to him, Ren. He really hasn’t been too honest and he needs to be. Has he seen or talked to Jessica recently?�

“Not that I know of. He told me at the beginning of our relationship that he hadn’t seen her since he told her off one day� she paused “I was gonna call him, but then you called!�

“Oh, I’m sorry! Do you need me to let you go?�

“It’s ok! I had fun talking to you! But it’s really getting to me, so I’m gonna call him�

“All right, take care, sissy!�

“You too, bye!� Renee hung up and then dialed Nick’s number. But she got his voicemail. This irked her, but she had no choice but to leave a message.
“Hi Nick, it’s Renee. I really need to talk to you about something. So please give me a call back when you get this message. Love ya, bye�

Renee spent the rest of the day alone, taking a walk in a local park, browsing a local mall, but not really buying anything, and dining at a local restaurant alone. As much as she loved to be around people, she also cherished to time alone. It gave her time to think about things and really analyze what was going on in her life. And by the end of the day, she was really worrying herself about the possibilities that could happen to her and Nick. And she didn’t like them at all. She wished he would return her call.

Back at the apartment, he finally did.

“Hello?�

“Hi Renee� Nick’s tone was even and friendly sounding. Good, he wasn’t in a bad mood.

“Hey. Where have you been?�

“Business… boring meetings and stuff like that. So, what do you want to talk about?�
“Us. I learned earlier today that you and Jessica are going on tour together soon�

“Who told you? I haven’t told you that�

“I have connections,� Renee stated simply. “Did you have a role in selecting her as your co-headliner?�

“Not really. I told them that I didn’t want her, to please pick someone else. But they didn’t let me, saying that she had the most available schedule, this’ll look good for your career, yada yada yada. I had to relent eventually, because I was outnumbered.� He sighed. “Bull[crap]. If anything, it’ll screw everything up�

“Have you talked to her recently?�

“No. Not since that day I told her off. But we’re supposed to do tour meetings tomorrow and her manager, which happens to be her dad, is gonna be there, so I suspect she’ll be there too�

“Do you think she’ll still want a relationship?� Renee didn’t want to know the answer to that.

“I have no clue. It may have worn off, or she still could be as firey as ever. There’s a lot of things she could do and a lot of things she could ruin…� Nick stopped there.

There was an awkward silence for about 5 minutes.

“Baby, are you still there?�

Renee’s mood was getting even more depressed and she wanted to cry, because she knew what Nick had meant. “You still don’t… love her, do you?�

“No way. I lost that when I figured out she was cheating on me. Listen, Renee, I’m gonna try everything in my power to keep us together and make sure Jessica doesn’t find out about you. Because if she does… I just don’t even want to think about that�

“I don’t either. I can’t lose you, Nick� Renee sniffled.

“You aren’t going to lose me, babe. I would never even consider for a second going back to her. The love we have is so powerful and it’s true, so we’ll make it through this, ok?�

Renee was slightly re[arse]ured by his words. “Ok.�

They talked a little while longer about other things, including finding Carmen again and the possibility of her and Drew getting together.

“That’s great that Drew’s found another person he likes. That divorce kinda burned him. So, that’s why Drew was asking me for your number awhile ago�

“Yeah, he was getting it for Carmen. But we need to go see them on opening night in Rent�

“We should. We’ll see how our schedules work out.� He paused. “I’m gonna go now. I love you Serena� Nick loved Renee’s full name and sometimes called by her middle name.

“I love you too, Nick. Bye�

Renée couldn’t believe how good that conversation was. It had been like old times. She wished they could have more like that.
She considered calling Carmen, but she was probably out with Drew and Renée didn’t want to disturb that, so she figured she’d call her tomorrow.

[Biondo Sorto]

Nice add Kris :wink:
I'll add my soon, TGIF 2morrow or it wouldn't be soon enough, lol!! :D :hehe:

[smilingdork98]

Carmen sighed as she checked herself in the mirror. At first, she was going to wear black (something short and nice, but the decided on a red spaghetti strap dress. She heard once that red was always a good color to wear on a date. In fact, she remembered hearing Renee say that back in high school. Not like it mattered then, but she was glad that she rememembered now. She stepped into some red heels and fluffed out her hair. She was re-applying her lip gloss when she heard the doorbell ring. Looking at herself one more timr, she slowly went to open the door.
"Hiya stranger." she smiled at Drew, widening the door to let him in. He smiled back at her and handed her the bouquet of roses he held in his hand.
"Thank you, their beautiful." she smiled, taking a whiff of the beautiful flowers.
"Your beautiful. I seen them and knew they were the one for you." Carmen blushed and as she walked over to the kitchen to put the flowers in a vase. When she returned she asked,
"So are you ready?"
"Ready like jumping spagetti!" Drew said, extending his arm out. Carmen rolled her eyes as his little joke and took his arm. They went out to a spanish resturant and then out dancing. By the time they returned home, it was late.
"Well I guess this is the part where I leave." Drew joked. They had been standing in Carmens doorway for fifteen minutes. Carmen bit her lip as she replied,
"Yeah."
She really didn't want him to go but was sort of scared to ask him to stay.
"I'll see you later than. Call me tomorrow, we don't have to be in until three. Maybe we can go to the theater together."
"Yeah, I'd like that." Carmen said as Drew bent down and gave her one last kiss. He started to head down the hallway when he heard Carmen yell,
"Drew wait!"
He turned around and asked,
"What?"
"Where'd you say you parked again."
"Remember, a few blocks from here."
Carmen looked down at her watch that now read 1:00.
"Drew just stay here. Its late, your drunk, and I don't want you walking in New York, especially at this hour."
"Carmen, I should be fine." he emphasized, walking back to her door.
"No, I think it be better if you stayed here." she said, pullling him into the house. Drew sighed and smiled.
"I've been out this late before; I'll be okay. But if you want me to stay, I can."
Carmen sighed. So he did know.
"How'd you know."
"I sort of wanted to too but didn't want to pry."
"I didn't want to sound forward." she laughed. They stood in silence until he asked,
"so you got a guest bedroom?"
"Yeah follow me." she replied. After they both got all the details worked out, both fell asleep, each wanting to be in the other's arms.

The next morning she woke up to the phone ringing. Groaning, she felt for it and mumbled,
"Hello."
"Hi...is..ummm...Carmen there?"
"This's her." she gruffed.
"Carmen? I thought you were Drew."
Carmen smiled and sat up in bed. After shaking the sleep out of her and clearing her throat she replied,
"Nope its just me. I was having a good dream and you woke me up. I'm not a nice person when people wake me up, but you should know that Renee"
"Darn, how'd you know it was me."
"You did this to me every day 'till high school was over."
"Yeah."
"So what's up?"
"Me and Nick talked."
"And....?"
"It went well. Really, really, well. we talked like old time, joked, flirted. Thanks for telling me again."
"Any time. I knew there had to be a better reason than the one you were telling me."
"I never told you a reason."
"I know." Carmen smiled. She heard Renee sigh until she asked,
"Anyway's, how did you and Drew go last night?"
Carmen smiled just thinking about the man that was sleeping next to her.
"Good I'm presuming from the silence." Renee said, interrupting her day-dream."
"yeah we went to the really good spanish resturant, and afterwards went salsa dancing."
"Hmmm, he actually didn't feel stupid dancing next to you salsa guru."
"No, beside my brother I think I may have found another spanish partner."
"Well that's good. You guys doing something today?"
"When he wakes up were going to rehearsals."
"When he wake's up? Why does it matter?"
"He's next door in my guest room."
There was silence until Renee asked,
"Let me get this straight. He stayed in the same vicinity with you without you getting all freaked out about it?"
"Yeah."
"Why?"
"I didn't want him walking out so late at night."
"Eaaah, wrong answer, try again."
"And he was drunk."
"No, no, no, try again."
"And its not safe to walk in New York that late at night."
"Three strikes your out!!! I think you wanted him to stay and came up with excuses."
Carmen sighed as she whined into the phone,
"Why do you know all of this?"
"I'm a mental doctor, its easy."
"Well anyways I trust Drew and nothing happened."
"But what if something had happened."
"What do you mean?"
"Bedroom wise?"
Carmen thought about this still confused. When it finally clicked she replied,
"ohhhhhh."
"Yeah, slow [arse]."
"Well....I don't know."
"You don't know?"
"Uh huh."
"Come on Carmen, you always have a answer for everything. You gotta at least know what you would do."
"Well...."
"Well?" she urged. Wanting to mess with her friends head and know her honest opinion she said,
"Your the shrink, what do you think I would do?

[StargateGirl]

Ok...I haven't read all of the adds yet, but from what I've read so far I really like. :D :D

[Kristen07]

Hi y'all

I promise that i'll add to this by the end of the week. Tonight I can't because I got three tests to study for :ugh: . And tomorrow is an ify, because I got homework and I'm going to my school's choir concert. and Friday, my older brother is coming home for Christmas. So, thnak for your patience and there will be an update by the end of the week :)

~Kris

[Biondo Sorto]

Kris its all good.
The school week is finally over for myself so I know how hectic it is. Can't wait for the add!!! :D

[Kristen07]

Here it is :) I apologize for its shortness. I hope y'all enjoy :)


Renee thought hard. Relationship psychology was supposed to be her expertise in her profession, but she sometimes didn’t use the smarts like she should when it came to her personal life. “You want it worded like a doctor would put it, or just a plain old person?�

Carmen had a hint of irritation in her voice. “A real person, it would go way over my head if you worded it like a doctor�

“All right. I’m just saying you probably would have gone all the way.�

Carmen was really angry. “How can you say that, Ren?�

“Look, I’m just going by what I’ve observed. While you like to be friendly with everyone, I remember distinctly you telling me that while your career was first, when you found a guy that you knew was right, you go after them with all your heart�

“Damn, why do you have such a good memory?�

“I got it from my mom, I guess.� Renee said.

“Well, I kinda did want to Drew to stay. But I don’t think I would have done that. Come on, we haven’t known each other again that long. And while he was my first kiss, I just don’t want to be [arse]ociated with all the drama than can go with it�

Renee had this talent that sometimes she could tell when people were laying and she had a distinct feeling that, deep inside, she was developing those feelings for him again. But she couldn’t tease her friend further; her next client was coming in five minutes! “Sure…. Anyway I gotta go, my next client is coming. Talk to you later� she hanging up abruptly as Shannon, a young single mother from an abused relationship, and one of her favorite patients, came in.
“Hello, Shannon� Renee greeted with a huge smile.
“Hi Dr. Carlson. I’m really depressed today�
“Well, tell me all about it, because that is what I am here for�

After another workday, Renee was hungry for a snack, so she went to the local 7-Eleven. While she was a very beautiful and had a great figure, she still loved junk food as much at the next person. She got her favorite, a coke slurpee and a large bag of Doritos. Renee loved Nacho Cheese Doritos; she could eat a whole big bag in one sitting, not that she had attempted. When she was depressed sometimes, food could get your mind of whatever is troubling you.

She stepped into her apartment and settled in and to munch on her snack and watch TV all night. But then she started to zone out… thinking about things past.

She went back to the night she and Nick had met. It had been at a show he was giving at a small club and Renee had decided to check him out because he had some good music. She watched him, unknowing of the fact that she would run into him later. Afterward, they happened to walk out of the restrooms at the same time, literally running into each other. Nick had smiled at her, and extended his hand in apology, introducing himself.
Man, that smile made her melt and she couldn’t believe that they were standing less than a foot apart. Renée had shaken his hand and introduced herself as well. They talked for a few minutes, and then Nick had asked her if she wanted to take a walk with him. She found herself saying yes, even though it was late vand dshe didn’t know him very well.
They walked around for awhile and had an enjoyable time. At a little past midnight, Renee had slyly slipped her number in his hand and disappeared, wanting to give a little mystery. Nick had called the next morning, and they went on their first date that night.
And on the second date, Nick told Renée about Jessica. How he had loved her, married her and thought it was true love. The mess of the divorce, and they had lost contact. How scared he was to repeat the experience. Renee re[arse]ured him that she was nowhere near like Jessica, and that she wouldn’t dream of hurting him like that. Then, they became an official couple, now that Nick had all that hurt off his chest.

At the beginning, Nick was a little hesitant, and then their bond just kept going deeper and deeper. They were dating almost a year when they made love for the first time. Renee remembered that night well. Nick had taken her away on a weekend, and arranged for have some romantics added to their room, such as candles and rose petals, to the room. And it just felt right for them to do it that that time. They were so p[arse]ionate with each other that night… she wished they would go back to that. Sure… the previous phone call they had had gone over smoothly. But she knew that this wouldn’t be the last of it. Jessica was surely going to try to get in the way of them. Nick said he didn’t love her anymore, but Renee still couldn’t be sure. Jessica was one of those types of girls who could persuade a guy to leave with her in a heartbeat. Even one as loyal as Nick. And Renee didn’t know what she would do if she lost Nick… she couldn’t lose him because he was one of the best things that had ever happened to her.

Tears threatened to spill out of her eyes. “No, I’m not gonna cry over us, not just yet� She forcefully told herself. She munched another Dorito. “Time for a night of cheesy movies�
So then she settled in for a night of her favorites movies, including Clueless and Beaches.

[Biondo Sorto]

This is sort of short too, sorry peoples, lol.


Carmen looked down at the phone, then shook her head. 'That woman sometimes' she thought, shaking her head and walking out of her room. There she saw Drew sitting at the table talking on the phone.
"Hey." she mouthed, leaning over and grabbing some cereal. He smiled at her, then continued to talk on the phone. When he was done, he smiled over at her.
"What?" she asked.
"I got some good news."
"All right."
"How much do you want to see Renee?"
"A lot. If I had the time, I'd fly out to suprise and see her. Why?"
"Guess who I was talking too."
"Cupid?" Carmen said, shrugging her shoulders. Drew laughed and shook his head.
"No, it was my brother."
"Oh."
"And he's going to suprise Renee and fly out and see her tonight."
"oh really?" Carmen said, raising a brow. As happy as she was for her friend, she didn't see how it connected to her.
"Yeah. but the thing is, after they spend some time together, there gonna fly out here to see us opening night."
"Really? Ren is going to be able to see me?"
"yep."
"You actually convinced her to come out here?"
"Yep. Well, at least I convinced my brother to convince her to come out here."
Carmen smiled as she jumped out of her seat and into his lap.
"Andrew John, your the best."
"I try." he smiled. Carmen smiled, then looked over at the clock.
"We gotta go soon."
"Well hurry up and get ready. I already showered and dressed."
Carmen, realizing this for the first time, smiled and got up.
"All right. And thanks again Drew."
"It was nothing." he smiled as she kissed him on the cheek and got up to get ready.

"Cut, Cut, and Cut!!! Angel, your not embarking your character. While Carmen feels her pain she's in uses that tune in with Mark's character. Angel, your lifeless!"
"Well I'm tired. We went for three hours through the whole play. We need a break."
"Fine, take ten." the director sighed, shaking his head to his seat. Carmen sighed relief. She was tired too. More than tired, she felt worn out. She walked over to an empty seat and started to play with her cell phone.
"Hey Cam."
"Hey Drew." she smiled up at Drew, who took a seat beside her.
"Tired?"
"Much." she sighed, resting her head on his shoulder.
"Thirsty?"
"that too." she laughed. he laughed back and handed her his water bottle.
"You can have some. Just don't take all of it."
"I'll be sure too." she smiled, opening the cap and taking a long swig of the drink. Drew sighed once she handed it back to him.
"I didn't really thing you take all of it." he said, looking at the little water she left him. Carmen burped and laughed.
"S'cuse me. I'm sorry, I told you I was thirsty."
"I'll be back to get some more water. You want something?"
"Water and something to munch on."
"All right." he said, kissing her on the forehead and walking off. Carmen smiled looking at him for a sec, then decided to call Renee. She looked down at the watch as the phone rang. Eight in New York would be five in California. After a couple of rings she heard her pick up.
"Hello."
"Hey girlie. What's wrong?" she said, hearing the hint of sadness in her friends voice.
"Nothing." she heard her sniff. Carmen shook her head.
"Your lying. What's wrong?"
"Nothing."
"Did you and Nick talk again? Did something go wrong. It couldn't have gone wrong." she said, rememebering her and Drew's previous conversation.
"We haven't talked."
"So...?"
"What if he leaves her for me?" she blurted out. Carmen shook her head.
"How could he? He loves you from what I've heard. Besides, your cuter than her and much smarter, how the hell would tuna be chicken when it could be dolphin."
"What?" Renee laughed.
"I'm just saying she mis-read the label thinking it was chicken and made a million bucks. I've always got tuna and dolphin tuna, and dolphin safe tuna confused and I don't see people lining up to me asking for million dollar contracts."
Renee laughed some more.
"Your a riot Cam."
"I know. This is why you love me."
"True."
"So, can't wait to see you."
"Huh."
"You and....uh oh."
"What?"
"Nothing, forget I mentioned it."
"I'm lost. Me and who and what?"
"Forget it Renee. Don't hurt yourself."
"shut-up dolphin eater!!"
"Hey, I made sure I get real tuna now!!"
"Riigght."
"Anyways, cheer up girlie. I got a feeling things are going to be looking up for you."
"Yeah?"
"Yeah." she smiled.
YOU GUYS BREAK'S UP. GET BACK IN YOUR PLACES!!!
"Who in the..what was that?"
"Director. My break is over. Well, talk to you later or tomorrow...I really can't wait to see you again."
"I can't either but I'm not going to be seeing you anytime soon."
"Yeah, bye Ren."
"Wait I'm lost."
"Sucks to be you then huh. Bye!"
"Carmen!!"
Carmen hung up the phone just as Drew walked over to her.
"What's that smile for?"
"I'll tell you later." she smiled at him
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*
Didn't know how you wanted to end that, but I was trying to speed it up a bit since we always talk on the phone. Hope you don't mind!! :)

[Kristen07]

No, no, it's great :) I'll try to add before Thursday, because I leave for a trip on that day.

[Kristen07]

Hi,

I won't be able to add to this story till early next week. This is so because I'm leaving tomorrow for Allanta, GA for Christmas and won't be back till ealy next week. So look for it then. Have a fantastic holiday :)

[Kristen07]

Here's the next one! I hope eveyone had a great Christmas! :)

Renee hung up, really confused. What had Carmen meant she would see her soon? And that things were gonna look up for her soon? Something had to be going on that she didn’t know about. But she hoped it was good, whatever it was.

She finished up a few things at office and then headed home for the night. Though Carmen had made her laugh so hard about making fun of Jessica, she still was a little depressed. She couldn’t really figure out why, most of it was she really missed Nick, and wished he wasn’t away on tour with Jessica so near. And that very thought sickened her to the stomach. But the rest… it was that she just was. She figured she’d just take a shower, and cuddle up in her covers.

After Renee stepped into her apartment, she cooked herself a small dinner, and then checked her home messages. There were two, from patients who wanted to reschedule their appointments to another time. She arranged it for them, and then looking at her schedule, realized she didn’t really have to work on Friday, Monday or Tuesday. But knowing her workaholic ways, she probably would anyway.

She took her shower and dressed in pink sweats and white tank. She then went out into the living room “We psychologists live interesting lives� she thought bitterly. Renee spent a lot of alone time these days. It wasn’t that she wasn’t friendless besides Carmen, they just had busier lives and when they did want to visit, she wasn’t in the mood to be social.
Oh, what she would do to have Nick’s arms around her now. He could always cheer up when she was down. But she still didn’t want to talk to him… the relations between them were still strained, even though the last conversation had been great. But he was on tour… doing what he loved.

Tears threatened to spill down her face. “NO! I’M NOT GONNA CRY!� she told herself. Then there was a knock on the door. This startled her. She wasn’t really expecting any company. And as much as she didn’t want any, she answered anyway.
Nick was standing on the other side of that door. Renee was extremely surprised, what was he doing here? “Nick, what are you doing here?�
“Had a few days break, so I thought I’d come see you. Why, is this a bad time or something?� He asked,
She shook her head “No, no, I’m just surprised, that’s all. Come on in�
Nick closed the door behind him and wrapped his arms around her. He then leaned in and the couple shared a sweet kiss.
Then they went to the living room and Renee got them a drink. When they were settled on the couch, Nick asked her “So, what have you been up to?�
“Not much, just working really hard at my job and then spending the majority of the other time alone.�
“Don’t you get lonely?�
“Occasionally but I’ve been doing ok.� She yawned
“You look a bit worn out. You could use a break.� Nick said. “You know me, I never want to take time off�
“But what if it meant getting out of LA?� He asked.
Renee paused. This might be considerable. “Go on�
“Maybe go to New York with me for a few days? Even get to see Carmen and Drew in Rent on opening night?�
She thought even harder. The offer was tempting... she would get to see her best friend for the first time in… 7 years or so. And she would get to get out of LA and spend time her fiancé. And she didn’t have to work on Friday, Monday or Tuesday. But still… “I don’t know, it’s tempting though�
“Come on Ren! There will be so many things about it! Please?� Nick had a puppy dog look on his face.
She gave in laughing. “You’re as stubborn as a mule! When are we leaving?�
“Our flight leaves tomorrow morning, about 9, then you’ll have the afternoon to yourself because I have to do a couple things. Then we’ll eat dinner somewhere, and then spend the night. Then Saturday, we have all day together and then go to Rent premiere that night. Then on Sunday morning, I have to fly to the next tour stop at about … 8 or so.�
“Sounds like a great weekend. I can’t wait.�
“It will be. Media will be at the Rent premiere, though�
This kinda scared Renee. Media? Jessica could find out about them that way. They would be out in public, and if people were covering it… “What’s wrong babe?�
“Nick… we’ll be out in public… Jessica could find out about us�
She could see the worry in Nick’s eyes, but he put his finger to her lips. “Babe, she is not to come up at all. You have nothing to worry about�
Renee nodded “Ok�
They sat there for awhile just talking and then Nick went to take a shower. While he did that, Renee went to pack for the weekend. Things seemed odd… all of a sudden they had turned around. They went from…. All these awkward silences and lashing at each other’s throats to back where it was. Nick was feeling the same she was about their relationship and was trying to fix it. And she loved that… but she knew Jessica could still get in the way somehow and she would. The thought scared her… but she really couldn’t dwell on the fact, she had a great weekend ahead with Nick and she would be reunited with Carmen once again!
“OH crap, I have no decent dress or dress clothes to wear� she began to search through her closet, and with every one she picked out… she disapproved for some reason or another. Nick was standing in the doorway “Can’t find anything good�
Renee turned around. “Nope. None of this looks glamorous enough for what where going to�
Nick rolled his eyes “Women and their clothes.�
“It’s something you men probably won’t understand as much� She shut her closet door “Oh well, gives me an excuse to shop with Carmen�
“And I’m sure you’ll look great in whatever you get� Nick said.
“You’re just saying that because I’m your fiancé�
“Not really. I’m not marrying you because of your looks, Renee. There’s just an added bonus. You’re sweet, sensitive, witty, funny, and really smart, unlike some girls I’ve dated� Nick wrapped his arms around her, kissing her cheek.
Renee giggled, “Ok, ok, enough with the compliments� She turned to face him and they began to engage in a make out session.
After they broke away, Renee looked at her watch. It was only 9, but she was really tired. “I’m getting tired, Nick. Want to cuddle in bed with me?�
“I am too. That seems like a good idea� They got in bed and wrapped their arms around each other. “I love you, Nick� Renee whispered to him.
“I love you too, babe� They kissed gain and then fell asleep, content with being in the others arms.

~The next morning~

They got up around 7, finished up packing, and then headed to LAX, getting there just as their plane was about to board.

The plane ride was nothing to write home about, but at one point Renee feel asleep on his shoulder.

They hailed a taxi to their hotel. That ride was uneventful as well; Renee was looking out the window at everything in New York. It was her first visit, and she noticed it had a totally different vibe than in LA. LA was a more laid back city, while New York was more professional and uptight.

They came to Four Seasons Hotel. Renee was amazed at how beautiful and fancy the hotel was. The floor was covered in fine green carpet and there was a majestic staircase going up to the second floor. “This place is a hoity-toity place indeed� Renee muttered under her breath.

A few minutes later, they were in their room. It was a nice two-room site, with a huge sitting room with white couches and carpet and nice word furniture and a queen-sized bed in the bedroom. The bathroom also had a Jacuzzi tub and a huge shower. “You celebrities get treated like royalty in these places, don’t you?� Renee said to Nick.
“Yeah, that’s really not a side of the business I’m too concerned about. It’s nice, but I really don’t need it. I rather just perform for the fans� He paused. “What do you want to do tonight?�
She shrugged. “Doesn’t really matter to me. But it also depends if I get hold of Carmen and we go do something. How about you just call me when you’re done with all the business stuff�
“All right� He looked at his watch. “I need to go.� They kissed a goodbye kiss “I’ll call you later. Have fun this afternoon�
“I will� Nick then walked out of the room. Renee walked over to the huge window overlooking the New York streets. This weekend was going to be a good one; she could feel it right now.

[Biondo Sorto]

Great add Kris...here's mine!!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*
Carmen stretched and smiled as she looked around. She noticed her calender and smiled even more. 'Only two more days to the play, boy can't I wait' she thought, getting up and starting to get dressed. After taking a shower and changing into some hip hugging jeans and a cute hawaiin shirt, she made a dash to call Renee. She had to know if she was coming out either today or tomorrow. She had nothing to do-seeing as she would be busy preparing for the play tomorrow-so she hoped her flight would be coming in early. When she didn't answer the phone she was relieved, and even more relieved when she heard her on the other line.
"Hello."
"Guess where I am....?"
"YOU MADE IT!!!"
"Yes, I made it." she heard Renee laugh.
"Someone seems to be in a chippier mood.....did someone get the nookie?"
"What?"
"Come on, you I haven't heard you this happy in a while...a long while."
"So, it doesn't mean I got laid."
"Right..."
"So anyways, moving on, where are you?"
"At home."
"No duh silly!! Where do you live?"
"Aww Ren, don't waste your money to come over to my place. I'll meet you over at your hotel."
"No its fine. I wanna see your house.."
"Loft." Carmen cut her off."
"Loft anyways. So where is it?"
"You sure?"
"Yeah, unless someone's there."
"Drew isn't here. He had buisness to attend too."
"Well give me the address!!" Renee laughed. After Carmen gave her directions to her house, she tidied up a bit. By the time she was done, Renee was at the door.
"Your actually here!!" Carmen smiled as she opened the door and hugged her friend.
"Same Carmen thinking through her emotions."
"Oh shush." she laughed as she widened the door to let her. Renee smiled at her, then looked aorund.
"Nice place you have. Way better than my place."
"and hella expensive. Being a soap star does have its advantages."
"You were a soap opera actress."
"You always said I was emotional." Carmen winked. Renee shook her head, then looked around.
"Well no what?"
"Now we go shopping!!" she smiled.
"Shopping.....haven't done that in a while."
"Your telling me. I haven't shopped since last week."
"Says the diva. Seriously, I need to get something for opening night."
"All right, all right." Carmen laughed walking toward the back of her house, grabbing her purse and keys. She locked up and turned to her friend.
"Now I'm gonna show you what real shopping is." she smiled. Renee could only roll her eyes as Carmen laughed.

The girls had stopped a few stores, both getting gowns for tomorrow night, though Carmen wouldn't be wearing her's until after the show. They decided to stop for lunch to catch up with times.
"So how's your sister doing."
"Fine. She's been busy with work and stuff."
"I bet."
"And your brother, how's he."
"Pablo? Fine. He had to fly out to New Zealand to go shoot for a swim-suit magazine. I still tell him he's the biggest son of a I ever knew."
"And then he say's 'Not my fault you choose the wrong career', right?"
Carmen laughed.
"How'd you know."
"First it wasn't his fault that you never got straight A's. Then it wasn't his fault that you turned up single. Sort of expecting this."
"Yeah." Carmen laughed. Then she looked at Renee.
"So tell me."
"What?"
"about you and Nick."
"What about me and Nick." Renee smiled. Carmen nodded her head.
"You did get the nookie."
"Cam!!! Drop it!!" she muttered, as the waitress sat their food on the table. After Carmen thanked him she smiled over at her.
"I'm just saying that...."
"Nothing happened. We made out if you really want to know."
"that all?"
"Yes."
"Well...what else?"
"He's staying for the weekend....umm......I don't know."
"You don't know what?"
"This premier tomorrow. Its gonna have a lot of media coverage. What if Jessica...."
Carmen rolled her eyes.
"If she finds out, well [bad word] her. She shouldn't have been a two-timing [nice person] and none of this would of never happened."
"Carmen!!"
"Sorry. I just hate it that your so over-worried because of that woman. I mean, Nick deserves you and you definatly deserve Nick. She needs to just let him go and move on."
"Carmen, its not that easy."
"I know. If I could I beat her up to let her know the message."
"Carmen, there you go resorting to violence."
"I'm kidding." Carmen laughed. Renee shook her head.
"I still feel.....Nick can have so much more. Why me?"
"Cause your sweet, fun, caring, sincere, one of the nicest people I've ever known. Your beautiful, and don't say you aren't, and beyond that you can put up with me. If you can do that then you definatly can get over this and be happy with Nick." Carmen said, smiling sincerly at her friend. Renee smiled back.
"Thanks Cam. Its good being with ya again."
"I know what you mean Ren, I know what you mean."

[Biondo Sorto]

I know I shouldn't be doing this but I can't resist, I had to add this part. Hope you don't mind Kris, thought it be good for your next add :P
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~~*
Drew walked into the cafe and immediatly spotted his brother glancing over the menu.
"What was so important that you had to drag me down here for?" he asked, breaking him of his thoughts.
"I needed to put in a favor." he said, looking up at him. Drew rolled his eyes.
"This couldn't be done over the phone? You know, I was just gonna go off and suprise Carmen..."
"She's not home, she's out shopping with Renee."
Drew narrowed his eyes at him, then asked,
"What is it?"
"Can you call up Carmen and ask her where all the romantic spots are out here?"
Drew looked at him dumbfounded then asked,
"That's all."
"Yeah. And I wanted to spend time with you."
Drew laughed and shook his head as he dialed Carmen's cell phone number. After the second ring she picked up.
"Hello."
"Hey babe."
"Hey babe. What's up?"
Drew smiled, then proceeded to ask,
"Quick question."
"All right."
"Do you know where all the romantic spots are out here?"
"Hmmm, why, plan on taking me out to dinner."
"Maybe. My brother want's to take Renee out tonight."
"Ahhhh."
"Yeah."
"Hmmm, let me see.....ummmm....well, if he goes upstate there's a really romantic resturant called Les Rose. But it's hella expensive, but they got some pretty good wine up there. Stanton Island usually has pretty good romantic deals, you know ferry and dinner rides and it has a pretty decent price seeing as you get to ride in this really nice boat and there dinner is really good. If he want's to stay in the city he should consider The Blue Moon, The Red Ballet is really cool, they have this nice show but its always booked, oh, the Golden Heart is really good. Its in a hotel that's known for its weddings so it has a really nice romantic vibe and has this beautiful waterfall in the middle of it, and you can ride this little ferry around the hotel, you know cause its a huge hotel, yeah, I'd suggest that." she nodded. Drew laughed.
"And you know all of this because....?"
"Well, before you I did go on dates, I just never wanted them to progress to anything."
"Right."
"Hey, I still choose you in the end so no complaining."
"All right, what was that last resturant called?"
"The Golden Heart. Its a resturant in the hotel called The Golden.....the golden something. I don't know, but I'm sure if he asks someone they can tell him. But it ain't cheap."
"All right, I'll let you enjoy your girl time."
"Thanks babe, and hey, come over tonight."
"Tonight?"
"Yeah, I miss you."
Drew smiled.
"I miss you too. What time seems all right with you?"
"Ummm, sevenish. Yeah, Renee is leaving at 6 to spend time with Nick and then I'll need to get ready so..."
Drew laughed.
"Sounds like a done deal. So 7:15?"
"Sounds good to me. Can't wait 'till then."
"Me either"
"Well see you then, Bye."
"Bye."
He hung up the phone with a smile on his face when Nick asked,
"So...?"
"The Golden Heart. Its a resturant in a Hotel called the Golden....something, she forgot. But she told me to warn you it isn't expensive."
"That's all right. Thanks, I owe."
"Yeah, you do. Speaking of which."
"Drew...." Nick groaned.
"What. I need a favor." Drew said, emphasizing favor.
Nick rolled his eyes.
"Go on."
"Call up Renee and ask her what Carmen considers a romantic evening?"
"What? No?"
"Nick..."
"Fine." he sighed, dialing up Renee's cell phone number and waiting for her to pick up.
"Hello?"
"Hey baby. How are you?"
"Fine. Having Fun. Just coming out of the bathroom as a matter of fact."
"All right...how is peeing fun?"
He heard her laugh but was relieved to know that she hadn't heard Carmen and Drew's conversation.
"So, what is it?"
"Drew wants to know something."
"all right."
"What does Carmen consider a romantic night'?"
"Hmmm." she thought about this for a while, then said,
"Well Carmen's a real romantic. She likes it when a guy and her make her favorite dinner...she really like seafood like shrimp and lobster. Ummm, I don't know its been so long, she always told me that she would like to cuddle with someone in a jacuzzi.....candles.....cuddling for sure, she's a cuddler, I don't know. Tell Drew to use his imagination, she's a romantic."
"Right. Thank babe, I love you."
"Love you too, bye."
"Bye." he said hanging up the phone.
"So...?"
"She likes it when you make dinner together or something like that, she likes seafood, something about a jacuzzi and candles and cuddling...I don't know. She said she forgot and for you to use your imagination, just that she's a romantic."
"Thanks, that brings me back to square one." Drew groaned.
"I know."
"Well, thanks anyways."
"you welcome." Nick smiled as the waiter came by.

[CeeCee]

Awww!! That's sooo sweet! :wub:

[Kristen07]

Here's the next one! It's a bit long, and there's a slight bit steamy part in the end. Hope y'all enojy :)

Renee walked back to the hotel room in a really good mood. She had just seen Carmen for the first time in… several years and she had a great dress for tomorrow’s premiere. Now, hopefully, she and Nick were going to spend a great evening together “This is the best mood I have felt in months� Renee thought smiling.
She entered it, seeing Nick was waiting for her.
“Hi hun� she said.
“Hi sweetie�. They shared a sweet kiss. “Do you have any other dress clothes other than what you just bought?�
she nodded. “Why?�
“I got dinner reservations to for 8, but I want to get to the restaurant early because there’s something we can do before dinner.�
“Allrighty. So, how long do we have to get ready?�
“About an hour. We have to be ready at 7:15 sharp�
Renee walked to her suitcase, got her stuff, and then locked herself in the bathroom.
She first fixed her wavy brown hair into a fancy bun, using hairspray to keep it in place. Then she touched up her foundation and blush and put on gold shadow, mascara and a very thin line of eye liner on her eyes. To finish the look off, she put on some glittery lipgloss. Finally, she slipped into her sexy black halter dress that she used only for special occasions, and then put on her black heels with butterfly charms on them. “Perfect� she told her reflection
“Ren, are you about ready?� Nick asked her.
“Yep� she stepped out of the bathroom. How do I look?�
Nick grinned “Stunningly beautiful� They kissed.
“And you look really handsome in your tux�.
“Thank you� Nick held out his arm. “Shall we, my love?�
“Let’s go� Renee put on her coat and linked arms with him as they headed out the door.

They arrived at this huge and beautiful hotel. It had to be about 45 stories high, and really wide too. I was so big, there even its own little river around it. And it looks so elegant, with the tan and gold exterior. “Wow, this place is beautiful. How did you find it?�
“Someone told me about it and I decided it looked good. We can take a ferry ride around the hotel before dinner if you want to�
“I would love to� she smiled.
The couple got on one and it took off.
Renee flinched. There was a nip in early March air, but she didn’t care. She was with her fiancé.
“You feeling ok?� Nick asked her. “
“Yeah, I’m just a little cold that’s all� She sighed, laying her head on his shoulder.
They sat in that silence for awhile, nothing but them and the still night. Renee felt happy, more than she had in sometime. “Everything is going to be fine between us� she thought smiling.
“This place looks so special�
Nick grinned “A special place for special lady� He kissed her hand.
“You’re such a romantic, Nicholas�
“And it’ll only get better as the night goes on� He winked as they got off the ferry.

They arrived in the hotel lobby. Everything was covered in gold, and looked even grander than the hotel they were staying at. “This would a great location for a wedding� Renee remarked.
“It is what they are known for� Nick said.
Renee and Nick got to the restaurant, being met by a formidable looking waiter there. “Ah, Mr. Lachey, Ms. Carlson, welcome to the Golden Heart. We have selected a special place for you. Right this way�
Renee examined the restaurant surroundings as thwey wwere lead to their table.
The walls were painted a soft gold color, the chairs upholstered white, with gold trim. The tablecloth was the same way. The lights were also dimmed a slight bit with candles on the table to give the restaurant a soft, romantic glow. There was even grand waterfall in the middle of the restaurant. She just couldn’t believe her eyes. This was the most romantic and grandest place she had been to in her life.
They were seated at a table near the back to ensure their privacy. “I have never seen so much gold in one place, Nick. But it’s the most romantic place I’ve ever been to�
He smiled “I’m glad you like it so well. I do too, I think it’s beautiful�
Renee picked up her menu and skimmed over it. “Geez, everything is so expensive here! 10 dollars for a simple salad!�
“Come on Renee, you don’t eat at places like this every day! Don’t feel so bad!�
“You know me, I’m kinda frugal like that, though. I don’t have millions of dollars that I can spend at the drop of a hat�
Nick chucked. “I’m not THAT rich, Ren. Anyway, that will be something we won’t fight about when we are married�
She did as well. “True� They sat in comfortable silence until the waiter came by with champagne.
“Shall I tempt you?� Nick asked her.
Renee thought for moment. She usually didn’t drink alcohol, but since tonight was really special, she’d have some. “Yes, you may�. The waiter poured them both a gl[arse] and left the rest of it in a vase with ice water in the middle of the table.
“Nick, is there any other reason that you want to go on this weekend, other than go see Carmen and Drew in Rent?
Nick nodded. “Actually, yes. I’ve been getting sick of all our fighting and everything else has been going on, so I figured this weekend would be a push in the right direction.� He took her hand. “I gave you this ring for a reason, that we both want to spend the rest of our lives together. Let’s not lose sight of that, ok?�
“Ok� Then the waiter came by with the appetizer, and the conversation turned lighter.
They talked and laughed through a delicious dinner. Then Renee began think “Hmmm… what is today? Oh! March 14th! We met on that day!�
“You know what Nick?�
“What, darling?�
“Today is the actual two-year anniversary of the day we met� She said.
Nick thought for a moment “Now that you mention it, yeah it is! Doesn’t seem like that long ago, though. I can still remember that night vividly.�
“So do I. Must have been weird, because when you went into that show, you must have had no idea you were gonna meet your soul mate that night.�
“I wasn’t really, the hurt was still kind of fresh inside and I just didn’t think I was ready. But you caught me off guard. When I saw you, I was like, damn, where did she come form I have to get to know her. But some people do say love finds you when you least expect it.� He paused, picking up his gl[arse]. “May I propose a toast?�
“Sure� Renee picked hers up as well.
“To Renee Serena, the most beautiful, funny, smart, sensitive, witty, greatest woman I have ever known. The last two years have been the greatest of my life and here’s to many more.�
“And here’s to Nicholas Scott, the best thing that has ever happened to me. May we be able to have a long and happy life together.� The gl[arse]es clinked and they drank to it. “You want to dance, babe?�
She nodded “Sure, hun�
They walked over to the dance floor, which was laying soft jazz music in the background. They wrapped their arms around each other and began to dance. Renee rested her head on Nick’s shoulder. She wished this moment could last forever. Just her and Nick.
He whispered in her ear “What do you say we go back to our room and make love all night long?�
She smiled. She was definitely in the mood and it would a perfect ending to a perfect night. “Definitely, Nicholas�
“I love you, Serena.�
“I love you too, Nick�

A half and hour later, they were back in the hotel room. Taking precautionary measures to make sure they would not be disturbed, both their cell phones were turned off, and they put a “Do not disturb� Sign on their room door.

And once they had taken their jackets and shoes off and they were under the covers, they wasted no time getting to it. They began kissing p[arse]ionately as Renee unbuttoned Nick’s dress shirt and let it slip onto the floor. Nick placed seductive kisses on her neck and ear as he untied the strings on her dress. The top of it fell off the exposing her bra, but she didn’t totally slip it off just yet, She slipped his dress shirt over his head and it went on the floor as well. “Dammit, Nick looks so sexy with his shirt off.� She thought, smiling inwardly. Nick slipped the rest of the dress off of her, leaving her with just her underwear, but she didn’t care because eventually they both wouldn’t have anything on.
Suddenly, she stopped. “Are you feeling ok, Renée?� Nick asked, running his fingers through her hair.
She didn’t know why. It wasn’t like they hadn’t done this before, but for some reason she had felt a temporary stiffness. “I’m fine, just a momentary thing.�
“Are you sure?�
She nodded. “Let’s keep going�
“OK� He helped her strip off his pants. Then Nick reached behinds her and unhooked her bra. Finally they both took off the others panties and finally they were both undressed.

They made love that night with a lot of p[arse]ion. It was the rest lovemaking session they had had in awhile, and the perfect ending to perfect night.

Later, when they were just laying in each other’s arms, Renee whispered to him, “Thank you for tonight, Nick. Everything was perfect.�
“You’re welcome. I thought it was too.� He kissed her forehead. “I love you�
“I love you too,� They kissed and then feel asleep, content to be in the other’s arms.

[Biondo Sorto]

Good add, like usual. :P
I'll add soon, been a tough week.

[Biondo Sorto]

This add is really short...sorry Kris I wanted it to be longer but couldn't think of anything...I'll make it up next add :P
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~
Carmen was exhausted as she closed the door. Renee had just left to be swept off of her feet with Nick, and all Carmen wanted to do was fall into a deep sleep in her bed. Sadly she didn't make it, and fell on the couch. A hour later, the doorbell rang. This of course woke her up, and she slowly walked over to the door.
"Hey......are you okay?"
Carmen widened her eyes. She had completly forgot that drew was coming over. And she looked like crap.
"I'm fine...I just woke up. I completly forgot you were coming over."
"Its all right babe, all the better to pamper you." he smiled, walking into the loft with a bunch of grocery bags. He walked into the kitchen and placed them there, and then turned to her. She looked at him still dazed from sleep and confused.
"What's up?" she asked, once she realized what was going on.
"Nothing, you go back to your room and take a little nap. I'll wake you up when dinner's ready."
"Drew....you don't have to make me dinner." Carmen said, walking over to him and taking the large pot out of his hands. She placed it on the stove and turned to him.
"Well, your tired. you shouldn't have to cook."
"Drew, I'll be fine. You just go off and watch sports or whatever guys do."
"No, I'm going to cook dinner."
"Well I want to cook dinner too."
"Guess we could just cook dinner together." he smiled slyly at her. Carmen gave him a wierd look but nodded.
"We could. It shut the both of us up."
"Fine, its decided." he said, opening up the grocery bag and taking the ingrediants out. Carmen peered over his shoulder and smiled.
"You got shrimp and lobster tail? I love seafood. How'd you know?"
"Just a hunch." he shrugged. Carmen gave him a wierd look and nodded. She started to fill the pot up with water as Drew started to mix the fried shrimp batter.When she was done with that, and the water was boiling on the stove, she turned to Drew and asked,
"So do you need any help."
"No...I'm fine." he said, dipping shrimp in the batter and placing it in the pan.
"You sure?"
"Well....you could make the salad."
"all right." she nodded. She started to mix the salad ingrediants together, still wondering what Drew was up to. She was just placing the cucumbers in when she heard a loud thud and Drew yell,
"Aww [bad word]!!"
Carmen looked toward him. Drew had managed to knock the still simmering pan on the ground and the shrimp and batter was everywhere, including him. Carmen hid her smile as she grabbed a towel and started to clean the mess.
"This wasn't supposed to happen." he muttered, picking up the pan and throwing it in the sink. Then he started to pick up random shrimp that were scattered on the floor. When he was finished, Carmen had just finished cleaning the batter off the floor.
"Opps, you missed one." she laughed, reaching up and grabbing a shrimp that had landed in Drew's hair. She flicked it in the sink and looked toward him.
"I suck in this romantic buisness." he sighed, walking toward the living room. Carmen followed him and took a seat beside him on the couch.
"No you don't."
"Yeah I do."
"Drew, people make mistakes."
"I wanted this to be a romantic night. I had planned on making dinner, and then later on relaxing in a hot tub. And now look."
"Drew....that romantic stuff....sometimes its just over-rated. I feel better knowing that I'm spending time with you. That other stuff is just a nice bonus."
"Still..."
"Hey, we still can have some fun in the hot tub." she winked at him. He smiled and picked her up.
"Your on." he said, taking her to the back of the house.

[Kristen07]

It's allright that's so short. You can go ahead and add anothor one. I liked it, made me laugh, and I needed that since i'm in kinda of a bad mood.

[Biondo Sorto]

Originally posted by ~KrisM16~@1/9/05, 06:10pm
It's allright that's so short. You can go ahead and add anothor one. I liked it, made me laugh, and I needed that since i'm in kinda of a bad mood.
Aww I'm sorry Kris, glad it made you feel better :D
The latest I can post this is tomorrow....as much as I want to add to this I know I should be doing my homework right now so yeah :P

[Biondo Sorto]

Kris, I'm still brain dead.....think you got something to inspire me or something. I don't know how I want to come across this so yeah...help would be nice!!!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~
Carmen woke up the next morning in a rush. She had a ton of things to do that day-with rehearsals, opening night, and the after party-and all to do in just a couple of hours. She was just rushing out of the shower, brushing her hair and trying to put on some underwear, and unfortunatly failed miserably, falling off her bed onto the floor. She was startled at first, then bust out laughing. She was re-tieing her towel on when Drew walked into the room.
"Hey Carmen Renee's on the phone and she was wondering...." he stared blankly at her as Carmen walked over and took the phone from him.
"Wondering?"
"I don't know." he said, starting to get a goofy smile on his face. Carmen laughed as she started to push him out of the room.
"Wait...why do I have to go?"
"Cause I'm getting dressed."
"Exactly!" he smiled at her again.
"Drew!" Carmen laughed, continuing to push him again.
"All right, all right I leave....but damn its just so..."
"Drew!!" Carmen blushed, swatting him again.
He smiled and bent down and kissed her.
"I understand Carm, you don't hae to worry about it, all right."
"All right." she smiled. He kissed her again and walked out the room while Carmen stood staring at him.
"Carmen!!" She heard a voice yell. She immediatly pulled out of her day dream and put the phone up to her ear.
"Sorry about that.."
"And you accuse me of trying to get the nookie."
"See the diffrence between me and you is I'm still a virgin and your sort of not."
"Sort of not?"
"You know what I mean."
"Right.....so what did you want to know?"

[Kristen07]

Cute! Writers block definitely sucks. But I'll add today ( got plenty of time since there's another snow day today) or tomorrow at the very latest :)

~Kris

[Kristen07]

Here's mine! I hope this helps you, Britt :)


“Have you gotten it?�

Renee rolled her eyes. If there was one thing that annoyed her about Carmen, it was that she could be a little too nosy. She told her a lot of things, but that crossed the line. She didn’t like to discuss that type of thing with anyone, because she felt it was a private thing that was to stay between you and the person you shared it. “Carm, please, drop it. That’s one part of my life that I don’t talk about with other people. Maybe I have, maybe I haven’t, you can just make your own conclusion�

“Oh, sorry. I’m just curious.�

“It’s all right. Would you and Drew happen to have time to go with Nick and I to the premiere part tonight?�

“No… we got too much to do. Sounds like fun, but we can’t. But it would be fun to go out, the four of us. When are you and Nick leaving town?�

“Nick’s flight takes off at about 8 tomorrow morning, and I’m probably going to stay longer, I really don’t know at the moment.�

“Darn, there goes that idea then. Well, I need to go get ready. See you tonight.�

“Ok. And if I don’t, break a leg! Show everyone why you are on that stage�

“Hopefully not literally� Carmen hung up.

Renee hung up as well. She went back into the bedroom where Nick was on the phone as well, wearing only a pair of jeans. “Man, he’s the sexiest man alive!� she smiled to herself.
He smiled at her and continued talking to the person on the other end. A few minutes later he was done. “Who was that?� She asked.
“Manager. He said there’s been a change of plans and I don’t have to be back till 9 Sunday night and I was also able to find a later flight, so I am not leaving till 5 or so tomorrow. We get a lot more time together�
Renee grinned “Fantastic!�
“I know, I’m happy about it, too� Nick said. They kissed quickly. “What do you want do today?�
“How about ESPN Zone for lunch, that would be something fun and we’d both enjoy it.�
Nick raised his eyebrow. “I’m surprised you’d suggest that�
Renee shrugged “Hey, I watch sports too, and I enjoy it, but I’m not a fanatic like some people.�
“Sounds like a plan. Anywhere else?�
Renee shook her head. “We’ll figure out something.� She paused “In the meantime, you wanna get in the shower with me?� she had a sexy grin on her face.

“Nah, not now. Go on ahead�

“OK� Renee took her shower and washed her hair and face. Then she dressed in an aqua t-shirt, gray sweatpants and sneakers. She decided to only put on a tinted lip-balm for makeup, since she was really going to glam up tonight.
Once out, she noticed Nick was watching TV. She sat down with him and laid her head in his lap. They did that for awhile and then headed towards Broadway.

When they got there about noon, it wasn’t too crowded. “Do you want to play games or eat first?� Nick asked her.
“Play first, I’m not that hungry� she said. “You?�
“Same here. Hate to say it, but you’re going down, babe�
“We’ll see� Renee chuckled.
They played several games, such as bowling, hockey, football, and Renée even beat him at the football game. “Geez, I didn’t know you could play!� Nick told her.
Renee shrugged “Hey, hidden talent. Video games aren’t just for the boys� She paused “Let’s go eat�

15 minutes later, they were seated in the restaurant with their drinks. “Nick, do you know much about what Rent is actually about?�
He shook his head. “Not really. But with Carmen and Drew, I’m sure it’ll be fabulous. Was she an actress when you two were in high school?�
Renee nodded “A fabulous one at that. Everyone raved about her even she wasn’t the lead. They all thought she was prefect Broadway material. I did too, I was amazed at how she could just get into the character she was playing, even if she wasn’t too fond of it, and just make it fabulous.�
“Is this her first Broadway play?�
Renee nodded. “Uh huh. I wish you could meet her Nick, she is an absolute riot, one of the funniest people I know.�
“Maybe I could. Since I don’t have to leave till 5, we could double date and meet up and do something tomorrow with them, [arse]uming they probably won’t have plans after being so tired from today�
“That would be fun. We’ll have to do that.� She paused “And this morning, I called her, and Drew answered. While I was waiting to talk to her, I heard a little too much information.�
“Their romance is heating up, isn’t it?� Nick asked, smiling.
Renee nodded, sipping her Pepsi. “Sounded like it from what I heard. Has he been married or anything before?�
“Divorced already, it was his best friend from Ohio. So, we both already have one marriage under our belt.� He sighed.
Then their lunch came and they ate in comfortable silence, occasionally talking. After that, they spent the rest of the day walking around New York, not really going any place particular. They ended up in Central Park and sat down on a park bench.
“Ren, are you nervous about the media being there?� Nick asked her after a few minutes.
She wanted to stay that she wasn’t. But that would be an outright lie. They would be exposed, out in public, anyone who followed the pop culture scene would know about them. Especially Jessica. “Yeah� She said weakly.
“Why?� Nick asked.
“I tried to tell you on Thursday, but you were like, it’s ok, don’t worry about her and it’s not to come up this weekend.� She said.
He wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “I’m ready to listen now�
She sighed heavily. “I’m just really scared that Jessica will find out about us. We’ll be out in the open, and likely she follows pop culture, and if she does, she might be pretty ticked off. Does she know about us?�
Nick shook his head “She doesn’t even know that I’m dating anyone, let alone engaged. I haven’t said a word to anyone on the tour about us. Because I know word might get to back to her. I’m scared she’ll definitely try to come between us if she does find out�
“Has she tried to pursue you again?�
“Yes. She’s definitely flirting, but I play it off. Don’t really don’t anything with it.�
“Has she tried to kiss you? And I want you to be honest with me� She looked at him intensely.
“It’s not like I could lie to you, you’d figure it out quickly anyway� Nick said.
Renee raised an eyebrow, “Because I’m a psychologist?�
“Exactly. She did once, but I immediately pushed away without looking back. She got nowhere near my lips�
“Has she tried again?�
Nick shook his head “No. And I’m being completely honest�
And Renee believed him. She knew he was being truthful. “Well, let’s go back and get ready�
“All right�
They got back to the hotel and started getting ready. For this evening, Renee decided to leave her hair down and curl it. She did her foundation and blush. For eyeshadow, she put on pale pink and mascara. And she finished the look off with lip-gloss. Then she put on her gown. It was very glamorous, nothing like she was used to. It was lavender, strapless, and sequins were all over it. And then she put on the shoes she had on last night.
“Wow, Serena, I’ve never seen you look this glamorous before.� Nick smiled. He had on the same tux as last night, but he looked just as handsome.
“Well, it’s a special night� She said, smiling. “Let’s go�
“Definitely� and then they headed to the premiere, arm in arm.

[Biondo Sorto]

That add inspired me muchos!!! I needed it, thanx. And here's a longer add to make up for the 2 short ones :P :D
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Carmen nervously started to apply her lip gloss as she prepared to get ready for the play. This was opening night...this was the night in which the play was either going to be a complete hit or a complete fluke. There was a knock on the door and then someone said,
"Carmen your up in five."
"Thanks." she yelled back. She put the lip gloss down and started to fluff out her curly hair. Then she smoothed out the green dress she was wearing for that scene and looked in the mirror again. She was ready. She walked out the door and down the hall, waving at idle people she knew. She finally made it toward the stage area, where Drew was already on. She smiled, looking at him. He was already doing good on his part. The lights dimmered and Carmen took that as her cue. She walked up the back stairs, preparing for the lights to reappear. When they did, she waited on Justin's cue. When he had finally walked over to the door, she knocked on it.
"Where you expeciting company Mark?" she heard his voice say.
"Angel I just got home. Do you think that I expected company?"
"S'ppose not."
There was silence.
"I guess I should get that."
"You should."
He opened the door and Carmen ran through the door.
"I need your help....Mark...Angel."
"What is it now."
The lights dimmered as the spot light hit her and Carmen began with her song.

When the show was over, and the bows were down, all of the cast members walked off the stage.
"Good job guys!!! That's a wrap for the night!"
Carmen smiled, waving at everyone. She would be meeting up with them later, at the after party. She went to her room and got out the black and white gown she had picked out. It crossed in the back, and was floor length. She curled her hair down, and then did her eye's in a sultry look. All members were expected to look glamourous that night, and though Carmen didn't prefer make-up, she found it acceptable for the night. She put on her heels and then pinned a rose to the side of her hair for a final touch. When she was done she started to walk down to the lobby, where she was expected to meet Renee, Nick, and Drew. When she had finally got there, Drew was already there along with Renee and her fiance.
"Guess who's Reenee!" she said, walking over to them. Renee smiled as she spotted her friend and walked over to meet her.
"Only took forever!" she kidded, giving her a hug.
"Hey, I'm still expected to look good for the press. My agent is going to be here tonight."
"Right. You did great out there. You really touched me with your character. And when did you become a singer?"
Carmen blushed.
"Just a little something I picked up in Hollywood. But look at you, you look wonderful."
"Its nothing compared to..."
"Don't even start with that Renee. You look beautiful. I may need to take up some make-up tips from you. And I told you that that dress went well with your skin tone."
"Thanks. I shop with the best."
"Exactly." Carmen smiled as she walked over to Drew and Nick.
"Well look who finally decided to grace us with her beauty." Drew smiled, walking over to Carmen and kissing her. In return, Carmen wrapped her arms around him and held him closer to her.
"Its good to see you to. You were great out there."
"Hey, it was nothing compared to you."
"Like hell. You were great."
"You were greater."
"Oh shush." she smiled. She was going to kiss him again when Nick cleared his throat. Drew pulled away and started to make the introductions.
"Sorry about that. Carmen, this is my brother Nick. Nick this is my girlfriend, Carmen."
"Nice to meet you Nick." Carmen said, extending her hand out. She looked over at Renee and mouthed, 'Good job.' Renee rolled her eyes and looked up at Nick.
"Hey, are you ready to go. I hear that the party was going to start soon."
"I'm all game." Nick smiled as they walked out the building.

By the time both couples got there, the press was already crowding the walkway. They all got out the limo where they were rushed by camera's and thousands of reporters. After they had answered some questions, they made thier way into the club. And some party it was. There was lots of music, and lights, and thousands of people. They were escorted toward the their table where they all decided to make some small talk.
"So...you starred in a soap opera before this?" Nick asked after a while. Carmen nodded.
"It seemed appropiate. Opera's had drama....I was a drama queen. I guess in the end, it just wasn't my forte. Then one day my agent got hold of a musical production being held in broadway and I just jumped on the oppurtunity. I got the part and now look."
"That's pretty cool." he nodded.
"What about you and your solo career? I heard your touring with Jessica Simpson." she asked. Renee shot her a deadly look but Carmen gave her a re[arse]uing gaze.
"yeah.......its doing good other than that."
"You don't like her?"
"Do you?"
"If I told you that you won't want to be my friend afterwards."
"I take that as a no."
"How about a hell no."
Nick laughed and shook his head.
"You got a winner this time Drew."
"What did I say? He thought that you were some dumb [nice person] out for my money." Drew said, wrapping an arm around Carmen. Carmen laughed.
"Naw, I'm just as sarcastic as gremlin over here." she joked.
"Gremlin!?" Drew said, looking down at her. They all laughed and Carmen shrugged.
"Your short, what can I say."
"And your shaq?"
"But I'm a girl so I have an excuse."
"You think your cute, don't you?"
"No, I know I'm cute."
"She only get's worse Drew." Renee laughed, looking on at the two.
"I'm seeing."
Carmen pouted and he kissed her forehead.
"I'll forgive you this once."
"All right." she smiled. She looked around a bit, then asked,
"Think you guys can get us a drink?"
Nick and Drew looked at each other and shrugged.
"Can't hurt too much."
"I'll take a margarita and Renee...."
"I'll have the same."
"We'll be back." Drew said, sliding out of the seat. Carmen waited for them to get out of earshot, then turned to Renee.
"Any sign of the stocker ex-wife yet?"
Renee sighed.
"No, thank god."
"Your tense. Relax. There's no use in you freaking out over nothing."
"Carm, there's still the chance..."
"Have fun. There's good music, good people, good drinks, you have a sexy fiance...."
"Carm!!"
"What? You did well on that one. And beyond that he's sweet. And he loves you. Don't lose that because of a insecure little girl."
Renee nodded, then looked up at Carmen.
"You relax too. You did good in your play, you look beautiful, and Drew seems really interested in you?"
"you think so cause I really don't know."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~**~*~*~**~
*Hehe, thought it be fun if i left it open for ya Kris :)*

[Kristen07]

This add was awesome, I could not stop laugihng during the club scene, those four have a great time together :) Look for another one in the coming days.

[Kristen07]

“I think he does. Especially after what I heard this morning and just the way you two interact,� Renee told her friend honestly. “It’s obvious you two are dating�
“Yeah, But still, I wanted a psychologists opinion�
Renee chuckled. “I’m not that good, I’ve only been in practice… 2 years maybe.� She took her lip-gloss out of her purse and applied a new coat. “I wish the boys would get back. I want to go dance with Nick�
“Here they come now� They both were carrying two drinks, beer for themselves and margaritas for the girls. Nick handed Renee hers and she gingerly drank a sip. “You want to go dance?� Nick asked her.
Renee looked at him surprised. “You read my mind, I was gonna ask you to� She turned to Carmen and Drew. “We’ll be back, we’re gonna go dance a bit�
�Ok, have fun� Drew said.

The duo got on the floor and lost themselves in the music. It was so much fun, and a lot different vibe. Last night it was slow and romantic, now it was more frisky and fun. “Are you having fun so far?� Nick asked her.
“Definitely, I’m glad we came. I’m determined not to get drunk, though�
“I’ll try not to, either�
Then Carmen and Drew joined them and they danced some more, Then Renee and Nick decided to take a break. They sat down at their table. Renee took a sip of her drink, watching for any short, gorgeous, voluptuous blondes walking around.
Nick noticed what she was doing. “Babe, I’m sure she’s not here. Don’t be so tense�
“Sorry, I can’t help it.� She said. “I guess I’m paranoid like that�
“Relax, ok? Everything’s fine� Nick put his arm around her shoulders and kissed her cheek.
“I’m trying�
“I love you, Serena�
“I love you, too, Nick� They kissed.

The rest of the night went by in a blur. There was more dancing, talking and a little bit of drinking, (Though Renée didn’t do anymore.) Overall it was a great time. Finally, at 2 am, the quartet hailed taxis and went back to their hotel or apartment too tired to say or do anything.

Renee and Nick crashed into bed, way too wiped out to do anything else.

Renee woke up the next morning about 11, feeling pretty good. This weekend had been fun and it seemed that things between her and Nick were doing ok, for now. However, she was not looking forward to the afternoon when he had to leave.

Her cell went off.

“Hello?�

“Hey sis!� It was Kayleigh again “I tried to call you last night where were you?�

“You will never believe this, but I was partying.�

Kayleigh laughed “You, party? I don’t believe it! What possessed you to do that?�

She explained to her about Carmen and Drew being in Rent and the after party was in a club.

“Did you have fun?�

“Oh yeah. Nick and I danced the night away and hung with Carmen and Drew. Man, those two are kinda wild when their drunk�

“Really? How much did you drink?�

“1 margarita, and that’s it.�

“Wow, you actually drank! You never drink alcohol!� Kayleigh teased.

“I know I don’t, but it’s a special weekend.�

“Must be� She chuckled. “So, how’s your and Nick’s relationship?�

“Just fine, for now. We went to a very romantic dinner on Friday, Saturday hung out for the day, kinda had a serious talk, and then went to everything that had to do with Rent�
Renee told her.

“What was the talk about?�

“Nothing I really want to get into now, it’s fine now,� Renee said.

“Oh, ok.� The two sisters gossiped for awhile and then hung up because Kayleigh was about to go out for lunch with friends.

Renee looked at the clock. It was almost noon. She went in the bedroom and Nick was still asleep. “What the heck, I’ll wake him up� She thought, smiling. “He still looks like the sexiest man alive, even when he’s sleeping�
She sat down next to him and whispered in his ear “Nicholas, wake up, baby�
He grumbled a bit and then opened his eyes. “Good afternoon� She said, smiling.
“Afternoon? What time is it?� He asked, his voice still totally sleepy.
“Noon�
“Ok, let me get up� Renee stood up, and then Nick got up and went into the bathroom. 5 minutes later, he came out. “Wait, I haven’t given you a kiss this morning, have I Serena?�
Renee shook her head. “I’d like one if you want to give me one�
“I’m always willing to kiss you� He wrapped his arms around her, and they began a few minute make out session.
After they broke away, Nick asked “How’s that?�
“Great. What time do you want to go to the airport?�
Nick sighed, thinking for a few minutes. “My flight leaves at 5:30, but I wanna get there early, to make sure I have enough time to check in and all that and it’ll take a bit to get to the airport as well, so about 3:00.� He paused. “So what do you say we just hang around here for a bit, and then met Drew and Carmen for lunch somewhere, and then I’ll head to the airport from there�
“Sounds good�
“You know, we haven’t gotten any use of the hot tub, you want to get in there?�
“I didn’t anything for that purpose�
“You don’t need to� Nick grinned. “Come on, I’ll do it, too�
“All right, your on� She returned his sexy grin.

After an intimate hook up in the hot tub, the couple got dressed. Then Nick started packing up some of his stuff, talking to Drew as he did so.
Renee sighed. She really didn’t want him to go. This had been such a great weekend, the best time they had had with each other in awhile. And knowing where he was going back to, it just completely depressed and sickened her to the stomach. Even though Nick had re[arse]ured her on many occasions that everything was going to be ok, she still had this tiny part of her that felt something was still going to happen. And there was no way she could lose Nick, none at all.
“Well, Drew said that they can come and we’re eating at Ivy Street at 2.�
“Fine� she said.
Nick sensed something was bothering her and sat down next to her. “Something’s bothering you, babe. I know it is�
“I just don’t want you to go, that’s all� She said, sighing. “When are we going to see each other after this weekend?�
“I really don’t know, Serena. The tour is going to go on for least the next month and a half and I know I don’t have many days off in that time, so… But we can still talk on the phone.�
“Still isn’t the same, though. And I’ll be…�
“I know, worrying about Jessica and everything else. I’m going to do everything in my power to make sure she will not come between us because she is in my past. We did have something, yes, but it’s gone now. You are my future, don’t forget that. Why can’t you just relax?� She could tell Nick was getting a slight bit irritated.
Renee had things she wanted to say, but she knew it would cause a huge spat between them and she didn’t want to end the trip on a sour note. “I know you’re not giving me any reason, but I just can’t help it’s in my nature�
“I promise to never give you as reason to even suspect anything is going on� There was an awkward silence for a few minutes, and then Nick went back to packing his stuff.
Renee was scolding herself for being so paranoid, but she knew what Jessica was capable of, and that thought scared her so much. But then that made it seem like she didn’t trust Nick, which she did, she just wished that Jessica would go away. But she also felt that this was only the prologue to some more drama that was going to go on.

They left the hotel at 1:35, and took a taxi to the restaurant. After 5 minutes of awkward silence, she couldn’t take it anymore. “Nick, are you mad at me?�
He shook his head, looking at her as if she was crazy. “No, what gives you that idea?�
“I don’t know, just when we were talking earlier I could hear a little irritation in your voice.�
“Yeah, doesn’t mean I’m mad at you, though. Don’t worry about it. Let’s not ruin this perfect weekend with a disagreement�
“OK. I was just checking� She laid her head on his shoulder, and he kissed her forehead.

They arrived at the restaurant, and noticed Carmen and Drew went there yet, so they went on to their table.
10 minutes later, they did arrive. “Hey lovebirds� Drew said “Hey� Nick said, as they slid the booth across from him and Renee.
“You took still look a little tired� Renee remarked.
“That’s because we are. Had a little too much to drink last night I’m afraid,� Carmen said.
“You two were a sight to see, that’s for sure�
“So, did you have fun last night Ren, for your first premiere?� Drew asked Renee.
Renee nodded. “It’s different. But it was a lot of fun.�
“Different?� Carmen asked, raising an eyebrow. “That’s the word you’re using?�
“Well, different from what I’m used to. I’m a workaholic, as you and Nick know too well, and I don’t get out much, so…�
“That’s an understatement� Nick said sarcastically.
“Nicholas, you shouldn’t be talking!�
Nick just shrugged.
“Maybe we need to get you out more� Drew suggested, chuckling.
Renee shrugged.
The quartet talked and laughed through lunch, and then it was time for Nick to go to the airport. The couple excused themselves to the front of the restaurant.
Renee and Nick wrapped their arms around each other and stayed like that for a few minutes. Renee couldn’t help but feel tears come to her eyes. “I’m gonna miss you so much, Nick�
�I know, I’ll miss you, too. I’ll try to call you when I get there, ok?�
“Ok� They kissed. “I love you, Nick�
“I love you, too, babe.� Nick’s car came and then they kissed again. Finally they let go, and she watched the car go off into the New York City traffic.

[StargateGirl]

:cries: awww.. I liked. :)

[smilingdork98]

Aww, that was cute and sad :cries:
I'll add when I get home...@ school right now and the bell is about to ring :P

[Biondo Sorto]

Carmen groaned as she rolled over in bed. She was suprised when she felt a warm body next to her and sort of screamed when she opened her eyes. This in turn woke the body up, who was Drew, and instantly got worried.
"What's wrong? Did someone get in the house, did you lose something, what?" he asked concerned, looking down at her. Carmen who was still laying down looked under the sheet and sighed relief. Drew chuckled and relaxed, falling down next to her.
"No, we didn't do it."
"Oh."
"You were drunk. I carried you in here and you pleaded for me to sleep with you since you were scared of something."
"Oh." she said again, her body relaxing. That was a little too close for words.
"Feel better."
"A little bit."
He smiled and wrapped an arm around her. This in turn made Carmen snuggle to him.
"Its not that I don't want to Drew, its just....I'm still a virgin and I want to make that moment magical."
"Its all right Carm. I understand." he whispered, kissing her on the forehead. Carmen smiled and snuggled closer to him again.
"I had fun last night...we should do it more often." she muttered, falling to sleep once again.
"You read my mind Carm, you read my mind." he muttered, closing his eyes.
An hour later, they both woke up to their phone's ringing. Drew reached for his cell phone while Carmen picked up her home phone.
"Hello?" she mumbled into the phone. She wasn't fully awake and was a bit irritated for whoever it was who had interrupted her from her comfortable position.
"What the hell are you whining about now."
She smiled, hearing her brother on the phone.
"you woke me up butthead! Watcha doing?"
"got the day off from the photoshoot."
"No taking pictures of voluptuous babes?" she questioned. Pablo chuckled.
"Nope, not today."
"Wow...this is a first." Carmen sighed, pretending to act suprised.
"stop with the drama act and tell me how the play went."
"You know, if you and dad had came out here then you would know. Seeing as either of you didn't, then there's no use in me telling you."
"Come on Carm." he whined. Carmen shook her head.
"Nuh uh, I'm not spilling anyding."
"Fine, be that way." he snapped. Carmen laughed.
"I can tell you something else though."
"What?"
"I got's a boyfriend."
"you did? Finally!"
"Shut-up" she laughed. Drew turned to her and mouthed that Nick wanted to know if they could spend lunch together. She nodded and he kissed her, then returened to his phone conversation.
"Hello?"
"Sorry Pablo, just talking with my honey."
"Woah, you let him stay the night?"
"Well...for the third time this week, yeah, I did."
"Woah, woah, woah. Should me and dad be worried?"
Carmen laughed again.
"No....there's nothing to be worried about."
"Uh huh. Sure."
"There isn't Pabio. Besides...we haven't done anything."
"yet."
She sighed.
"I'm not 18 anymore."
"Doesn't matter. Your still that wild Carmen we all know."
"I'm 26 and I haven't done anything yet. Why worry now."
"first off.....you ignored me for this guy. You never ignore me."
"well..."
"Shut-up. Secondly, you let him stay the night, and not just one night, three times out of the whole week!!"
"And that means what to me?"
"Thirdly, your considering a possible future with him."
"When did I say that?"
"Its obvious Carm."
"I guess.....I'm gonna go, all right."
"All right. Talk to you later."
"Bye. Kisses."
"Right back at ya."
She hung up and looked over at Drew.
"Who were you giving kisses to. Not a secret boyfriend, I hope?"
She laughed.
"Far from it. It was my brother, Pablo. He was 'checking' on me"
"Oh." Drew nodded. They continued to stare at each other when he said,
"we should get ready. We have to be there before 2."
"Oh all right." Carmen sighed, jumping out of bed and running toward the bathroom.
"Hey!!! Who said you could use that bathroom first!"
"I did! My house, my rules."
"Meanie." Drew laughed, starting to make up the bed.

When they finally did manage to get there, Renee and Nick had already arrived.
"Hey lovebirds." Drew said, taking a seat.
"Hey" Nick replied. The chatted for a while, then Nick had to leave.
"Bye Nick, it was nice meeting you. Hope I get to talk to you soon." Carmen smiled, getting up and hugging Nick. He hugged her back and said,
"I'm sure I will. And hey, watch Serena for me if you can too....you know how bad she is without me."
"Shut-up!" Renee smiled as they all laughed.
"Will do." Carmen smiled at him. He gave her a thumbs up as Drew walked toward him.
"Bye bro, talk to you later."
"see you." Nick said as they give each other the "man hug". They pulled away and Renee and Nick walked out. Carmen sighed as she turned to Drew.
"What?" he asked, starting to kiss her on her neck.
"This is going to be the beginning of a horrible couple of months for Renee"
"Why?"
"Cause....Drew stop." she giggled. He smiled and pulled away.
"All right, all right, I'm listening."
She gave him a quick kiss then said,
"She's going to be far away from Nick, Nick's going to be with Jessica...see what this is adding to?"
"No?" he asked still confused.
"and she still feels paranoid that Nick may leave her for Jess"
"Still can't see the pattern."
"Distance+Jessica+paranoid=trouble. HUGE trouble."
"He's not going to leave Renee for Jess. He hates Jess, of this I am sure, and he loves Renee. A lot. He's scared to loose her to someone else."
Carmen sighed.
"I wish I could make Renee see that."
"Talk to her."
"I tried. She won't listen."
"Oh.....hey, she' s back." he smiled as Renee sat back down with them.
"yeah." she said softly, giving a weak smile. Carmen looked at Drew who shrugged.
"Hey Renee, remember how every summer we used to go and have huge water fights in the big exclusive hotels...and then we get kicked out because we make too much ruckus and stuff."
"yeah." she sighed, still not smiling much.
"How about we do that right now."
"what?" Drew and Renee said at the same time.
"Where? Why?"
"We just go and find some hotel and have fun in it and because your upset and what kind of friend would I be if I didn't get you all riled up again?"
"Babe I get what your doing, but this is New York. We can get in a hella lot of trouble if we do that."
"Not if we do it in my friends hotel."
"Your friends hotel?"
"I was an soap opera actress. You met a lot of diffrent people." she shrugged. He nodded.
"Well....I don't mind. Do you Renee."
They both looked at her as Renee did a half grin.
"Guess it couldn't hurt."

[StargateGirl]

um.... Britt...

When they finally did manage to get there, Nick and Carmen had already arrived. [/b]

:P

[Biondo Sorto]

Opps...lol, I meant 2 type Drew :P

[StargateGirl]

lol...you mean Renee. :P

[Biondo Sorto]

Yeah..yeah....we'll I meant 2 say Renee but got her confused w/ drew :P :) :D

[StargateGirl]

uh huh sure. :P

[Biondo Sorto]

Originally posted by Leslie@1/28/05, 09:49pm
uh huh sure. :P
I did 2!!! :P :D

[Kristen07]

Originally posted by Eeyoredork@1/28/05, 10:53pm
"Distance+Jessica+paranoid=trouble. HUGE trouble."
Carm's got that right :hehe: :P

[Biondo Sorto]

Originally posted by ~KrisM16~+1/30/05, 02:46pm--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(~KrisM16~ @ 1/30/05, 02:46pm)</div> <!--QuoteBegin-Eeyoredork@1/28/05, 10:53pm
"Distance+Jessica+paranoid=trouble. HUGE trouble."
Carm's got that right :hehe: :P [/b]
Me thought's so ;)

[Kristen07]

Here's the next one

Renee followed Carmen and Drew to another ritzy hotel in New York. She felt bad about doing what they were about to do, because it was always Carmen’s idea to do what they did all those summers ago. But she needed cheering up and reliving something from her childhood would do it.

They arrived at the hotel, which was owned by Carmen’s friend Miguel. Miguel said they could do what they wanted, but if anything was ruined or broken, they had to pay for it. They had a lot of fun goofing off, including pushing each other into this huge water fountain the middle of the hotel. Luckily no paparazzi or people were around because they would have looked like idiots if there were. But they didn’t care at all.

After they had goofed off awhile and were drying off, Renee felt pretty awkward. She had made the mistake of wearing a white tank top this morning and now felt kind of exposed, and hoped Drew wasn’t checking her out. But then again, he had Carmen, but still. Renee was a pretty girl and a lot of guys would wish she was theirs.
“Both you girls look really sexy all wet like that� Drew said.
“Why, thank you, darling� Carmen said, smiling and kissing him.
Renee just turned her head awkwardly. “What, Ren?� Carmen asked her.
“I don’t know, I just don’t like that kind of attention from guys other than my fiancé� She sighed.
“Ren, can I talk to you for a minute alone?�
She raised an eyebrow, confused. “I guess�
“What, you going to go off and totally hit on her?� Carmen teased.
He shook his head. “No I just want a word alone, you go off and visit with Miguel�
“Ok� They kissed and Drew and Renee headed to a parlor and sat in two chairs.
“What do you want to talk about, Drew?� she asked.
“The situation with you, my brother and his ex�
Renee raised an eyebrow again. “What about it?�
“Well, Carmel was telling me earlier how she thinks that these next few months are going to be huge trouble for you. Why do you say that?�
“Because Nick is away and on top of that, he’s in the vicinity of Jessica every day and that thought sickens me�
“You know those divorce details as well as I do, and Nick really doesn’t think highly of her. She caused him a lot of heartache. He wouldn’t dream of going back to her, not even for a second�
“I know he wouldn’t but he’s as away and gets lonely and the way Jessica seems. I have never met her and hope to never have to, but he said that she tried to get him. Obviously the attempt backfired, but it was still out there. I know she is trying to. The opportunity is too perfect� Renee sighed, thinking about how Nick had told her that she tried to kiss him.
“Yeah, but she doesn’t want him back for genuine reasons anyway. She had her chance and blew it. Now that he’s moved on and got someone else and they’re both in the spotlight, she wants him back. Kind of a well-timed publicity stunt to me. If she really wanted him, she wouldn’t have cheated on him in the first place. And she doesn’t.�
“That’s also what I’m scared of. This will get blown out of proportion in the tabloids and create a huge media circus. And I don’t want that. But Nick has also told me that she had tried to kiss him and really flirt with him. He didn’t kiss her back, but it happened. That just makes me uncomfortable.�
“It’s an act, I’m sure. Nick’s not stupid. He could see right through her. Stop freaking out so much Renee; he lost his love for her the day he found out that he was being cheated on. And it will never come back, ever. He loves you, deeply. I have never seen him happier, not even with that that [nice person].�
“I know he does… it’s just the fact that he’s there. Wouldn’t you feel uncomfortable if your fiancé had to go in a situation where the ex was there?�
“Yeah, but I wouldn’t be a dram queen like you are being. You need to stop freaking out, Renee. You really do. Haven’t you ever thought that Nick is scared that he’ll lose you to another guy?�
“Bull[crap]!!!! That would never had in a million years, Nick is the best thing that has happened to me� Renee sighed.
“Well, you need to transfer that attitude to this. You just need to keep reminding yourself that he loves you and that nothing, not even that *****, will get between you two.�
“I guess I need to stop worrying so much. Thanks Drew, I needed that�
“You’re more than welcome. I just don’t want to see you two break up�
“I don’t either� They hugged and then went to find Miguel and Carmen.

They were at the front desk, laughing it up. “Back, are you?� Carmen asked. “It’s about time�
“We just had a thing straighten out�
Miguel smiled at Renee. “So, Renee, do you live here in New York or just visiting?�
“Visiting. I live in LA, but came in for the weekend� She told him. “Actually, can you give me access to a computer, because I need a flight back to LA�
Carmen and Drew looked at her like she was crazy. “Why? I thought you said you didn’t have to go back to work till Wednesday� Carmen told her.
“I don’t, but I’m such a workaholic I’ll just go back early anyway� Renee told her best friend.

She found a flight for Monday afternoon. And by now she was very tired and wanted some solitude. But Carmen and Drew weren’t about to let her.
“Really you two, I need to go and you probably want to have some time alone anyway.� She told them.
“But you’ll just depress yourself again’ Carmen argued back.
“I won’t, I promise. I’ll see you all tomorrow� she got into a taxi, relieved to be alone at last.
Nick had only been away for a couple hours, but Renee was missing him terribly already. She had no idea how she was going to get through these next few months but she was going to have to.

[Biondo Sorto]

Great add as usual Kris!!! :D
Add when I can....hopeuflly by the end of the week, sorta busy :P

[Kristen07]

Thank ya!

And add whenever you can, I'll be patiently waiting :)

[StargateGirl]

I didn't even notice that you had added.

I really liked. :D poor Renee... :(

[Kristen07]

Are you gonna add to this toinght, Britt? It's ok if your not, I'm just wondering.

[Biondo Sorto]

I meant 2 but 4got...sowwy Kris, I'll add first thing tomorrow :P

[Kristen07]

It's all good, can't wait to read it :)

[Biondo Sorto]

Sorry it took so long, but here it is! :)
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Carmen followed Drew down the hall as he led them to his room.
"Drew....I could've just gone home...it wouldn't have been that long of a drive."
"I don't feel comfortable with you riding home in a taxi, at night, with a white shirt on. A wet white shirt."
"So what am I supposed to do, where one of your clothes?"
"Exactly."
"Stinky." she said, scrunching up a face. Drew laughed.
"We'll go shopping just so you'll be clean, all right."
"All right." she smiled as he opened the door to his room. They walked in and Drew started turning on the lights to the suite.
"This is nice......the company's paying for this?" Carmen asked as she put her purse down and started to look around.
"Yeah, its all right I guess."
"You guess. It could mesasure up to my loft."
"Like I said before, I guess."
"Riggghhttt." she then looked around,
"Can I get some jammies. I wanna jump in the shower."
"I thought that I was going to jump into the shower first."
"Nuh uh. Me first."
Drew sighed.
"fine......I'll watch TV."
"Thankies. So where's the jammies?"
"Look in that drawer behind you." he said, pointing behind her.
"All right." she said, already opening the drawer and grabbing some boxers and a old shirt. She then walked to the bathroom as Drew turned on the TV. He was watching an old episode of The Real World when he's phone rang. He looked at the clock and noticed that it was late. Curious still, he leaned over from his spot in the bed and picked it up.
"Hello, Drew speaking."
"Hey Drew."
"Hey Nick, how was your flight?" Drew asked, muting the TV.
"Pretty smooth flight but uh, can I ask you something Drew?"
"Shoot."
"Well I got off the plane and guess who was waiting for me."
"Jessica?"
"Uh huh."
"How'd she know when you flew in?"
"Who knows. But it gets better."
"What?"
"She found out about me and Renee."
Drew sighed.
"and?"
"And she wished me the best out of my relationship."
"So that's a good thing."
"I guess.....but I don't know if its a good thing."
"Why wouldn't it be?"
"I don't know. I don't even know if I should tell Renee."
"You should hold off for a sec........wait Nick, let me call you back, Carmen's coming out the bathroom."
"All right. Hey!, why don't you let Carmen tell her."
"Nick....."
"Just suggest it."
"Fine. Bye bro."
"talk to you later." Nick said as Drew hung up the phone. He looked toward the bathroom door as Carmen walked out, drying her hair.
"What's wrong?" she asked, looking at him confused. Drew shrugged.
"Right..." she said, taking a seat beside him and watching the TV screen. Drew started to doodle with the comforter when she asked,
"Drew?"
"Yeah?" he said, looking up.
"Could you un-mute the TV."
"Yeah.....no."
"No?"
"I gotta ask you something."
"all right."
"I just talked to Nick."
"How is he?"
"He's fine, but uhh...he ran into Jessica."
"Oh."
"And she found out about him and Renee."
"Ohhh." she said, shaking her head. Drew looked at her and she instantly started to shake her head.
"No, no, no, no, no. I hate getting into conflicts."
"He just wants you to warn her so when he tells her it won't totally hit her."
Carmen sighed.
"That's all?"
"That's all." he nodded.
"fine." she said, falling back on the bed.
"Hey, watch the bed spread. Wouldn't want to get your wet hair all over it."
"Oh shush." she said, sticking her tongue out at him as he rolled on top of her.

The next morning Carmen walked down the hall toward Renee's room with a box of donoughts in one hand, two cups of coffee in the other.
"Knock, knock." Carmen said, pounding on the door. After a couple of minutes the door opened to a very tired Renee.
"What?" she asked confused.
"Good morning. Greetings from New York." Carmen chirped, pushing her way into the room. She placed everything down and turned toward her.
"what are you doing here?"
"Well, I gotta go in at 11 but I thought it be appropiate to talk to you before then."
"I thought that I was going down to the theater with you anyways."
Carmen stopped in her tracks, but then slowly said,
"Well, we have one more day together so I just wanted to..you know, live it up."
"Right." Renee nodded, already grabbing a donought.
"So...how was your night?"
"all right....I missed Nick but it was all right."
"right." Carmen said, picking sprinkles off of her donought. Renee sighed. She noticed her distant behavior since she stepped into the room.
"What's wrong Carm?"
"Huh?"
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing." Carmen said, forcing a smile.
"You've been acting distant every since you stepped in here."
"No sir."
"I'm a shrink. You can't fool me."
Carmen sighed.
"I have to tell you something."
"all right."
"And it deals with Nick."
"All right," she paused, "Is it bad."
"Depends on how you take it."
"All right...what is it?" Renee asked.
"She found out."
"Who."
"Jess. She found out about you and Nick."
~*~*~*~*~**~**~*~
Thought I leave a cliff hanger for ya Kris :wink:

[Kristen07]

Great add :)

Ah, I know exactly what to do with this. :P I might add either tonight or tomorrow :)

[Biondo Sorto]

Had to make up for not adding for a week :P

[Kristen07]

Here my's next one, I hope y'all enjoy :D

Renee’s heart sank. This definitely meant something. “And, what did she say?�
“Just to wish you the best in your relationship� Carmen said.
She didn’t believe it, not at all. Jessica had to be putting on an act. “I think she’s putting on act. History is just bound to repeat itself, I know it. The opportunity is too perfect�
“Renee you are so paranoid, aren’t you?�
“But I just know it is. Intuition. Anyway, how did you finds out about this?’
“Drew told me� Carmen said simply.
And if Drew knew, Nick had to have told him. This kind of hurt her. Why couldn’t he have just told her himself? She sighed heavily taking a bite of her glazed doughnut.
“Hey, don’t shoot the messenger� Carmen said, “I’m just telling you what I know�
“I’m not. I just wish Nick could have told me himself.�
“He probably knew that you would get all worked up like you always do� Carmen paused “You really need to take a chill pill, Ren. Why do you worry so much about losing Nick?�
“Well, it’s not just Jessica and all that� Renee said. “I just don’t want to repeat the experience because it happened to me before.�
“I don’t remember that�
“We weren’t talking at the time. I was in college, in love with a guy named Bryan, and everything was in place. But then the guy’s first love came back and he fell back in love with her and decided to dump me for her. And that’s what began a painful time in my life I rather not recount�
Carmen raised her eyebrows. “So that was a big heartbreak for you, wasn’t it?�
“Yeah. I was really in love at the time. I even thought about marrying him for a brief time. But then after he left I swore I would never love again. So I avoided any romantic encounters with men for the next two years, despite my friends, Kayleigh and Mom’s protests. But then, I met Nick and forgot about all those fears. I just don’t want all that heartache again�
Carmen nodded “I see what you mean. Did he still seem to be in love with you while he was with her?�
Renee’s blue eyes filled up with tears. “Yes. I didn’t know about her at all. So I’m afraid Nick will do that to me.�
“I still don’t think that he will. He loves you so much.�
“I know he does, there’s just this little thought in the back of my mind that he will. I know, I’m probably the most paranoid person you have ever met…�
“You are not, you’re just cautious. However, a little too cautious� Carmen said.
Renee sighed again “I know. I try to tell myself to chill out but I can’t. And everyone else is too.� She didn’t want to talk about it any longer.

The girls spent the day together and then Renée left for LA.

“It was nice to see you again� she said, hugging her friend.
“Same to you. I’m gonna try to get out to LA sometime, ok?�
“All right. Have fun with Drew�
Carmen laughed, “You know I will. And don’t miss Nicholas too much, ok?�
Rene laughed as well. “I’ll try not to, Carm� They let go and then Renée got on the plane.

The lane ride was nothing to write home about. As soon she got to her apartment, she crashed into bed, jet lag completely pulling her down. Her cell phone woke her up a few hours later.

“Hello?� Her voice was full of sleep.

“Hey Ren, is that you?� It was Krissy, her closest California friend.

“Yeah, I’m just really tired and got up.�

“I was just wondering if you wanted to meet up for dinner?� Krissy asked.

“Sure, what time is it?�

“7�

It was only 7? It felt like 10, since she had gotten so used to Eastern Time. “Ok. I’ll meet you in a half and hour at the Ocean Grill�

“Sounds good to me. See ya then�

A half an hour later, the duo met up. They hugged and went to their table. “So, what has been going on with you, Ms. Carlson?�
“Not too much�
“I highly doubt that. I saw you on E just before I came here.� Krissy said.
Renee’s mouth dropped wide open. “You’re not serious?�
“Yews, I am. They were covering a play premiere and there you were on Nick’s arm. And they named you and another chick, I forget her name, for best dressed of the week too.�
Renee couldn’t belie her ears. “Hopefully it was Carmen Opio�
“Yeah, that’s who it was. Do you know her?�
“Oh yeah. We used to be best friends before she was famous. But then I got in touch with her again recently. This was so because her boyfriend, Drew happened to be my fiancé’s brother, Nick. So Drew got my number from Nick and then we have been talking again�
“So, was the premiere fun?�
Renee nodded “Yeah. Too much paparazzi though�
They went on to have an enjoyable dinner.

She got home and then realized she had a message since she had kept her cell phone off during dinner.

Hey babe, it’s Nick. I just wanted to call and see what you were doing. I just got done with a show and it’s about midnight now. It went good. Oh, and I need to talk to you about something too. Call me when you get the chance. I miss you and I love you, bye.

Renee already knew what he wanted to talk about. But she wasn’t in the mood to talk, she was really tired. And it was 1 Am EST anyway and Nick needed his sleep. She would call him later.

[StargateGirl]

:) me likes. :)

[Biondo Sorto]

Carmen sighed as she watched her friend fly off, and then decided to head back home. She turned on the TV and noticed that E! was on and decided to watch that. She saw that her and Renee had won Best Dressed and mentally gave herself a high five.
I told her she shopped with the best' She thought, picking up the phone. She stopped herself short thinking about Renee. Though she wanted to call her and tell her about it she thought otherwise. While she missed her friend, she knew that sometimes they both needed their space. She turned off her TV and fell back on her couch. She was bored. B-O-R-E-D. She couldn't call Drew because he was spending time with his mom and step-dad, who she would meet at the next play. She couldn't call Renee because she wanted her to have her space. She knew all of her friends on the west coast were probably at celebrity parties, and her friends out here didn't seem like the 'partying' crowd. She decided that she would take a long bath and started to draw the water for it. When she finally did soothe her body in the warm water, the phone went off. Thinking it best that the machine got it, she closed her eyes and waited for whoever it was to speak on the otherline.

Hey Carmen it's me, Paul

Carmen's eye's immediatly snapped open and she looked toward the phone.

I see that your busy so I thought I leave a message. Well, uhh....you know that I just flew in for the week and decided to buy tickets for your play. I saw on TV that it was pretty good, and figured 'what the hell?' But I was calling because I was wondering if you wanted to go out to lunch tomorrow just to catch up with things. I'm going to be at the Cliffpoint Cafe off of 40th, so if you want to, we can meet up there around, let's say 11? All right, that's all, speak to you later.

She heard the machine click off and she sighed as she sunk deeper into the tub. Now she was confused and stuck in a runt and didn't know what to do.

Carmen sighed as she paid the taxi driver and headed toward the cafe. Yeah, what she was doing was wrong, but what else could she do? There were too many questions that weren't answered and she wanted the answers to all of them. She opened the door and searched around for him, and lost her breathe as she spotted him sitting in a far booth seat. She bit her lip and slowly walked toward him.
When she finally reached him, it was obvious he was oblivous to his surrondings. Like always. She cleared her throat and he looked up at her.
"Hey...I didn't think you would show."
"I didn't think I was going to show either." she said, giving him a weak smile. He stood up and gave her a kiss on the cheek and a hug. She nudged him a bit as he sat down.
"So.....how are you?"
"I'm fine, I'm fine. How are you?"
"I'm fine. My movie comes out in a month."
"I heard. Congratulations."
"Hey, congratulations on the play. I hear its a hit."
Carmen smiled and nodded.
"I think were pretty good."
"Oh."
There was awkward silence until he spoke up.
"I missed you."
She sighed.
"No, no, and no. Not again."
"Why not?"
"Because I..." she was interrupted by her phone.
"Excuse me." she said, picking it up.
"hey baby."
She smiled. It was Drew.
"Hey babe. How are you?"
"Good. You talk to Renee?"
"Yeah and she's a complete wreck."
"That sucks. Nick say's he's going and try to talk to her today."
"that's good."
"So what are you doing later on tonight?"
"Nothing, why?"
"I was wondering if you would like to go out to dinner?"
Carmen smiled.
"I'd love too."
"All right. Bye babe."
"Bye." she said, hanging up.
"Friend?"
"Boyfriend."
Paul looked at her for a second and slowly nodded.
"that's cool. You know, I'm seeing someone too."
"Really? Who?"
"Jessica. Jessica Simpson. You remember her from Newlyweds, right?"
Carmens eyes got big and she immediatly grabbed her purse.
"Yeah, ummm, you know Paul, could you......I have to go."
"Huh? Why?"
"Spur of the moment sort of thing. Talk to you later....we can do lunch later." she said, running out the cafe. Then she dialed Renee's phone number and patiently waited for her to pick up.
"This better be an emergency. Nick's on the other line."
"It is. Guess what I just found out."
"What?"
"Jessica has to be serious about you and Nick's relatioship."
"Why?"
"She goes out with my ex, Paul."
"Wait, wait, wait. How do you know this. And Paul who?"
" Paul Walker. I met him for lunch right now. I just left him."
" You dated Paul Walker? You went out to lunch with your ex? Does your boyfriend know about this?"
"Renee...." Carmen whined.
"What?"
"Why worry about me when I just told you that you and Nick's future is booked solid gold?"
"I don't know, your just dating Paul Walker." Renee said sarcastically.
"Renee...."
"Tell me the details on Paul and I'll let you tell me more about me and Nick's 'booked solid gold' future."

[Kristen07]

This definitely shakes thing up a bit! :D

And checks your PMs, i sent one back :)

[Biondo Sorto]

I thought so :P
I was tired of Carm being in NY doing the same thing, lol :D

[StargateGirl]

WOW!!! lol

[Kristen07]

Here's the next one. You get to see a little bit of Renee's drama queen side, lol !

“Well, I met him when I was in one of those soaps, and we dated for about a year or so. It was a good romance but a bit of a whirlwind�
Renee was trying hard to hide her annoyance. “Probably well covered in the media too�
“Oh yeah. The tabloids talkie about us a little bit. Eventually we just said it wouldn’t work out. Seems weird that the two evil exes are dating each other, don’t you think?��
“Yeah, very peculiar� Renee said in a very sarcastic tone. “I’m gonna go� She hung up and called Nick back.

“Sorry, hun�

“It’s ok, babe� Nick said. “Who was it?�

“Carm, called me to say that Jess is dating her ex, Paul Walker.�

“Yeah. Seems like a PR romance to me, though. Nothing serious. She’s talked about him like… once or twice since we’ve been on tour.�

“Why am I always out of the [freak'n]ing loop?� Renee was getting really mad.

“Whoa, whoa, calm down� Nick seemed taken aback. “Why do you say that?�

“Whenever I find out a piece of information, seems like everyone else already knows about it. I’m always last to know everything. Especially when it comes to some things�.

“ I was going to, but I didn’t know how you would take it�

“Yeah, then you send your brother to tell my best friend to tell me. Smooth, Nick, very smooth. I would have preferred to have heard it straight from the source.�

“Renee, you are blowing this a little out of proportion, you know that?� Nick said.

Nick had said the wrong thing. WAY wrong thing. “I am not. Isn’t it my right now if an ex has found out about and potentially ruin our union?�

“Yes, but….

�But what? I really don’t trust her and I think she is putting on an act, just like you said with her and Paul�

“I don’t know if I do, either. But she really isn’t an immediate threat� Nick said “As of now�

“NICHOLAS SCOTT!!!!! You [freak'n]ing hypocrite! You have hold told me before that she has flirted with you heavily and now you say that you say that she’s not an immediate threat? I…. God� she hung up on him and began to cry really hard. She felt so bad for yelling at him but he had made her so mad, Carmen calling and just not being in a happy mood altogether, had pulled the trigger. She didn’t know how much longer she could handle this. And Nick was going to be out for at least two more months….

She cried for a bit, and after she was done, she washed her face and took a shower. Then she called him back.

“Hello?�

“Nick, I’m so sorry that I yelled at you. I was just so pissed off…�Renee said softly.

“It’s ok, babe. I said a few things I shouldn’t have either. You had a right to call me a hypocrite� He told her.

“What did you mean to say?� she asked him.

“That I felt that she is not a threat as of right now. She’s kind of quit flirting with me and everything else for some reason. I have absolutely no idea why she did, but she did�

“But she’ll probably start her old ways again, I just know she will� Renee told him.

“How can you be so sure?� Nick asked.

“Nicholas, darling� she said in her best British accent “You are forgetting what I do for a living�

“Oh yeah, I have a mental analyst for a fiancé� Nick said in a joking tone. “Not that that’s a bad thing�

“I was going to say� She said, chuckling.

“Speaking of, are you at work right now?�

She shook her head. “I’m not going back till tomorrow�

Nick gasped. “Renee Carlson has taken three days off? I don’t believe it!�

Renee laughed, “Even workaholics need breaks, you know that!�

“That’s true� Nick was laughing as well.

They talked for a little while longer.

“Well, babe I need to get ready for the show.�

“All right. Have a good show. I love you�

“Love you too, bye�

[Biondo Sorto]

Poor Renee...good add though Kris :D. Need to think of something good for the next one, lol :P

[Biondo Sorto]

I should add 2 this no longer then 2morrow.
Srry about the long wait :P

[Biondo Sorto]

Finally I add, lol :P
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~*~*
Carmen looked down at her phone and gasped. Why was she taking it out on here.
"This is not my problem, just go on with your day and you'll be all right." she said, walking toward the subway. She spent the rest of the day at interviews, and by the time she got home she had to get ready for her date. She was just applying her lip gloss when the door rang. She smiled as she walked toward it.
"Hey." she smiled, giving Drew a warm smile and a long hug. She had missed him a lot, even though she hadn't seen him less than 48 hours. He smiled and handed her the single pink rose.
"What? No red?" she asked, a little bit confused. Drew wsmiled.
"I wanted it to match your dress."
Carmen looked down and realized that for the first time they were together, she had picked out a pink dress. Which was a good sign because she never wore pink unless she thought that more would come out of her relationship.
"Well your pyschic. I didn't realize I was wearing this."
"Its what lo...I mean, must be all the TV I watch."
"Right." she smiled, placing the rose in a small vase and looking toward him.
"well I'm ready. How 'bout you?"
"I'm here, what more needs to be done for me to be ready?"
"Nothing I see." she said, grabbing her purse and taking his hand.
"I told my mom and dad that we meet up at that little chinese resturant that's nearby."
"Oh yes. Tell me why I'm meeting your parents way before I'm supposed too?"
Drew tried to cover his smile as he shrugged his shoulders.
"Hey, its convienent, right?"
"I guess." she said, smiling back at him. They walked out of the building and pretty soon they were standing outside the resturant. Carmen turned toward Drew and sighed.
"I'm nervous." she admitted after a while. Drew sighed and shook his head.
"Don't be. My mom's already a fan of yours and my dad will love you no matter what."
"All right." Carmen smiled as Drew grabbed her hand and they both walked into the resturant. Drew smiled as they walked toward the couple who got up from their seats.
"Hey mom, dad, sorry were late but you know how girls can get." Drew said, softly hitting Carmen. She nudged him back as they took a seat.
"So Carmen.." Cate began.
"Oh yeah, mom, dad this is Carmen. Carmen this is my mom and dad."
"I think its a little to late for that Drew." Carmen said, shaking her head.
"Right." Drew blushed. Cate laughed as she turned back to Carmen.
"What I was going to say is that your making a pretty good name for yourself. First soap opera's, now Broadway, what's next? The movies?"
"Actually, I'm sort of considering that after RENT I start looking at some movie scripts. It be really nice if I could get one, you know. Move to the top my mom always said."
"Tha'ts nice. Now Drew tells me that you guys meet some time before the play."
"Oh yeah. We met back at summer camp I think my junior year. Its was sort of cool that we met up again just a month ago." she said, looking over at him.
"I agree." Cate nodded as their waiter came.

Pretty soon their dinner was over and Carmen was situated back at her place. Everyone had just left after they had a couple of drinks at her place, just to talk so they could get to know each other. Carmen was just taking off her shoes when the phone rang. She sighed as she walked toward it and picked it up.
"Hello."
"Hey Carmen, how ya doing."
She groaned. It was Paul.
"Hi Paul, how ya doing?"
"No fair, I asked first."
"Fine, now I repeat, 'How are you doing?'"
"Pretty good. Where were you tonight, I called you a thousand times."
"How'd you get my number?"
"Oh, Sandra gve it to me."
Carmen slapped her forehead. Of course she would, she still wanted the two together.
"Oh, I was out to dinner with my boyfriend and his parents."
"You never dined with my parents."
"I was never to have that sort of relationship with you. Get over it."
"I can't. You know me."
Carmen laughed as she let her hair down. Unfortunatly she did.
"What do you want?"
"To spend some more time together."
"Uhhhh, I don't think that be the right thing to do."
"Why? Jessica and Nick are doing it?"
"Really?" she asked, somewhat curious and disappointed in her friend.
"Yeah, they go out every chance they get just to catch up. I want to do the same with you."
"That be nice and all but you know......I don't know if that's cool. I don't even know why Nick is doing all of this."
"Come on, what can it hurt?"
Carmen thought, then smiled. She go out with him all right.
"All right Paul, I'll go with you the day after tomorrow. I have rehearsals tomorrow."
"All right, talk to you later."
"Bye." she said, hanging up the phone. She'd go out with him all right. He had all the goods on what Nick and Jessica did, and that was good enough bait for her. Of course she'd tell Renee after she had enough details, but right now she had to keep all this good stuff to herself.

[StargateGirl]

sneaky little one isn't she... what's he up to though?

[Biondo Sorto]

You'll have to read to see Les :wink:

[Kristen07]

Oh geez, this is getting goood :D :P

[jnd98forever]

oooooooo naughty naughty nick *starts pointing at nick*

[Kristen07]

I just wanna warn y'all ahead of time that this next add will be really short. There's a limited amount of things I can fit in there and i want to give Brit all the leeway she need to introduce the 'scandalous' :D :P information on Nick and Jessica. so just so y'all know that.

[Biondo Sorto]

Oh yeah Kris....
I can't wait to add so you can see my scheme >:)..hehe
Want me to PM the idea to you or do you want it a suprise?

[Kristen07]

Here it is, in all its shortness!


Renee went back to work that next day, determined to return to the normal life that she lead. And things were normal as usual. Everyone had problems to talk about and she was glad to get away and listen to everyone else’s problems and completely forget about her own.
She wished that she could always have to answers to her own problems like she did with the patients. But she knew she wouldn’t. It was so frustrating.

So she went home, ate a little dinner, took a shower and got into some comfy clothes. She knew she had to call Carmen and apologize because she still felt really bad for being such a [nice person].

“Hey Carmel, it’s me. I’m sorry I was so mean to you, I was really not in good mood at the time. I guess I’ll talk to you later, bye�

She hung up, not knowing what to do. She knew she couldn’t call Nick, because he would be singing right now, Kayleigh was going on with her life, as were all her other L.A. friends, and her mom would be out too. So she had no one to talk to about being so depressed like she always was. But she also felt pretty drained, so she decided to just crawl under the covers, hoping the next day would bring better days. Little did she knew that someone that she didn’t know, but had so close of relations to her, could have some dirt that could change her life forever.

[StargateGirl]

ooohhhh....can't wait for more. :D

[Biondo Sorto]

To linger or let the lingered be lingered on.......that is the ?
What is up w/ me and these ?'s, lol :P

[Kristen07]

lol, Britt :D

(says in AOL Voice) You got PM! I'm hyper, don't ask.

[Biondo Sorto]

u hyper me tired...lets switch roles real quick, lol :P

[Kristen07]

:hehe: *transfers energy to you*

[Biondo Sorto]

I feel a little pinch of it, lol :P

[Kristen07]

But just add when you can, I'll wait :popcorn:

Ok, now I am calm

[Biondo Sorto]

This is the beginning of a long add. Sorry its short but I promise I'd post a least something and I have to do HW.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Carmen tied the silk belt to her jeans and started to put on her v-neck shirt. She was going to meet both Drew and Paul down at Coney Island in Brooklyn. She grabbed her purse and was going to leave when she noticed a red light blinking. She played it over and sighed. This was the sixth message that Renee had left and she had to ignore. It wasn't delibrate, she just couldnt' talk to her until seh knew all of the details. She walked out of the complex and hailed a taxi.
By the time she got there, Drew was patiently outside.
"Hey baby." she smiled, paying the driver and getting out of the cab.
"Hey." he said. They kissed and hugged when Drew asked,
"So why did you want to meet way out here."
"Well, there's someone who's going to be spending time with us.." she said, already spotting Paul walking over. She pulled away from Drew and started to walk toward Paul.
"Hey....hope you found the place."
"With the help of the hotel lobbyest, yeah." he smiled. She gave him a soft smile and turned toward Drew.
"Drew, this is my ex Paul. Paul this is Drew, my boyfriend." Carmen said.
"Hey.." Drew smiled, putting a protective arm around Carmen. She smiled at him as the two guys started to shake hands.

[Kristen07]

Ooo.... looks interesting.

[Biondo Sorto]

There's a 3rd part to this but I have to do something real quick :P, so enjoy the second part :)
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"So your the guy that she's dating. Hope your treating her right."
"I'm making sure that I am." Drew nodded, then looked down toward Carmen in a questioning glance. She ignored it and looked toward the left where she saw a rollercoaster.
"Let's head toward the coasters." she smiled, already pulling Drew in the direction. He followed, still giving Paul a skeptical look, with Paul behind them. They got in line and Carmen decided to start conversation.
"So Drew, did you know that Paul goes out with Jessica?"
"Really? Nick failed to mention that to me." he said, looking toward Paul. He shrugged.
"I guess she told him not to say anything to anyone. They've been hanging around together a lot."
"Really?" Drew asked, looking toward Carmen. She smiled and winked.
"Yeah." Paul said, looking up at the two.
"Hmmmm, that doesn't bother you?"
"Not really. I trust Jessica. And I heard Nick is a pretty cool guy, so I figured that he wouldn't pull anything. Beside that, he's engaged or something....right?"
"Yeah, Nick never told me that he started to hang around Jessica a lot though."
Paul shrugged again and sighed.
"I don't know....Maybe he didn't want to let anyone know that he was doing it."
"I guess."
"You never know Drew." Carmen shrugged as their turn came up. She turned around and looked toward them.
"You know what, I think I want to ride alone. How about you two ride together?"
"Are you serious?" They both asked at the same time.
"Yeah." she said, already taking a seat by herself.
"I guess." Drew said, taking a seat behind her.
"Whatever." Paul sighed, taking a seat beside him. They buckled up and Carmen did have to share with someone, but it wasn't either of those two. Which she wanted, she needed Drew's opinion on Paul. The ride ended and they were all smiling.
"That was a pretty good ride." Drew said as they started walking down.
"Pretty good? My head is still spinning." she smiled, wavering from side to side. Drew grabbed her and she looked around again. She needed to talk to Drew without Paul being around. She spotted a guy jumping off of a building and smiled. She looked up and smiled at him.
"What?" he asked confused.
"Lets go bungie jumping!" she said, standing up without Drew's support.
"What?" both guys asked.
"I wanna go bungie jumping. Who's with me?"
"Hey, that does sound like fun..."
"And you've never done it. Come on Drew, pwease." she said, wrapping her arms around him. He laughed and nodded.
"I'm game."
"Kudos," she turned toward Paul.
"What about you?"
Paul shrugged his head.
"Come on Paul." she said, smiling at him. He was going to say no regardless; he hated hieghts, but she wanted to sound convincing.
"I'm cool hanging out down here." he said again, nodding his head. She smiled and grabbed Drew's hand.
"I want you to watch us, so sit somewhere close." she smiled back at him. He smiled back and she looked toward Drew. Once they got inside the building and were signing "safety" papers, Drew looked toward her.
"I thought you hated heights."
"You only live once." she said, trying to remember her social security number, then quickly writing it down. Drew nodded then asked,
"So why is he really here?"
She smiled and looked over at him.
"How'd you know there was a catch."
"I may not have known you for long, but your not slick. My guess it deals with Nick, Renee and Jessica."
Carmen nodded.
"I need him to tell me what's up with those two. Then I'll call Nick up and ask him if its right. If it is, I'm telling Renee."
"When were you planning on telling me?"
"Today." she smiled. Drew laughed.
"That's wrong."
"What? I wanted you to come anyways, I knew it be suspicious if I went off with him, and I've been meaning to tell you that we went to lunch earlier this week."
"You did?"
"He asked me, but I left once he told me that he went out with Jessica. So I guess we really didn't have lunch." she laughed. Drew laughed again and shook his head.
"Well this is interesting."
"Yeah, it is." she smiled. She looked at him and put her pen down.
"I'm done. What about you?" she asked. Drew chuckled.
"I still need to put down my name."
"Drew!" she whined, resting her head on him. He started to write down his information as she looked up at him.
"I'm doing the right thing, right?"
"Sort of. Though do you think its right prying in their buisness?"
"I don't know. I knew Renee did it for me once back in High School. I figured that this be okay since this is the same scenario sort of....right?"
"I guess." Drew shrugged. Finally they finished and buckled up. They took the long elevator ride up and finally reached the top. Drew and Carmen both looked and Drew decided to go first. He jumped, laughing all the way down of course and then it was Carmen's turn. She closed her eyes as she jumped off and screamed her lungs off. They started taking off their gear and finally walked over to Paul.
"how'd we look?" Carmen asked as they started walking toward another part of the area.
"You looked scared. Drew looked like he was having a good time."
"I saw. Who jumps off laughing?" Carmne asked, rolling her eyes.
"I do." Drew smiled.
"Your stupid." Carmen mumbled.
"Don't be mad 'cause I'm not the one scared of heights."
"I thought it be fun." she said, eyeing him.
"Right." he smiled. She pushed him then looked toward Paul.
"What?"
"Wanna go on the ferris wheel?" he asked after a while. She looked up at Drew who winked at her. She smiled and nodded at him.
"Yeah...you sure its okay Drew?"
"Yeah, I have to call my brother anyways and see if he got those basketball tickets."
"What basketball tickets."
"The ones we....I'll tell you later." he smiled at her. She nodded and followed Paul into the ferris wheel line.
"So how do you like Drew?" she asked after a while.
"He's cool. He's good for you. How does he know Nick?"
"Can't you tell? Him and Nick are brothers."
"Really?"
"Yeah....you didn't know that?"
"Nope, fooled me."
"Yeah...well you know that...forget it." Paul sighed, shaking his head.
"What?"
"Forget it." he shrugged.
"Come on, tell me."
"Nah, forget I ever mentioned it."
She sighed and looked toward Drew who was on the phone. She smiled as she got on the ferris wheel. She knew what she had too do to get it out of him.

[Kristen07]

*gets excited* .... Carmen's really sneaky :P :D

[StargateGirl]

ooh...what's she gonna do?

[Raevengeance]

Come on Britt - can't leave us hanging for too long

[Biondo Sorto]

ALl wight, All wight, I'll make a deal:
If I feel like if after practice I'll finish my add :P

[Biondo Sorto]

Finally, after all these years, my add!! Lol, I hope you enjoy, I had fun with this ;) PM your ideas Kris, I just changed our whole story line sort of, lol :D
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~*~
"Come on Paul, what can it hurt?"
"It can 'cause a lot of damage. I mean, what if you tell him?" He said, nodding toward Drew.
"Paul, don't you trust me? If you didn't then you wouldn't have brought it up."
"Its just Nick..."
"Nick.........what?"
"You know how he is. He likes to flirt with Jessica." Paul said, casually putting his arm around her. She looked at him, then shrugged her head.
"Are you sure its the Nick I know?"
"Nick Lachey, Drew's older brother, right?"
"Yeah..." she said, looking down. He couldn't; even Drew claimed that he wouldn't go off and flirt with someone other than Renee. And Drew couldn't lie to her....could he?
"Nick, he's just so, you know, he's real sweet and caring. Especially when it comes to Renee."
"Are you sure? Usually the sweet ones are the good liars."
"yeah, I'm pretty sure." she said, looking over at Drew, who was now sitting on the bench, still talking on the phone.
"Drew could be the same way." he whispered softly in her ear. She turned toward him and shook her head.
"Your wrong. Drew...me and him, we care for each other. A lot."
"Does he love you?"
Carmen stopped talking and thought about it. He acted like he did. There were times when he looked at her and she felt like they were the only people on the planet. Was it love, though? Could she admit defeat and really trully say she loved him? And even more, did he love her back?
"That's a no." Paul said, snapping her out of her thoughts. She shook her head.
"I think that he loves me. Not only to be saying it, but I feel it when he looks at me."
"Has he told you?"
"Well....," she started to look down at her fumbling hands. They seemed to always want to fumble with themselves when she was nervous.
"No. We haven't got to that stage yet."
"I thought so." They had reached the top and Carmen hoped now more than ever that the ride would end soon. She wanted to stop the game she was playing; it was starting to backfire, and worse, on her.
"Want to know about the truth with Nick. And what I figure to be Drew."
"What?"
"Nick....he's been cheating on Renee."
"What?!" Carmen asked, looking over at Paul. Then she shook her head.
"your lying."
"No, I'm not. That game your boyfriend was talking about, I know about it. Nick is going there, but not to watch the game. He's going to be meeting up with someone....who I'm guessing is bringing a friend."
"Who?"
"She's the reason why I'm considering a break-up. I was hurt when I first found out too."
"Who is it Paul!" she asked, looking over at him. She was tired of his games.
"Jessica."
"Jessica? She's as pure as I am. I don't believe you."
"Don't? Jessica lost herself to him when he returned back from New York. Nick's a man regardless of what he says, and he has needs to meet. Jessica met those needs. I just found out myself, she left me a message on the phone a night or two ago."
"I don't believe you. Your lying. And Drew wouldn't do that to me either." Carmen said, looking the other way and crossing her arms. Paul shrugged and pulled out his phone. After calling his voicemail, he held it out to her.
"Listen."
She cautiously took the phone and pulled it to her ear. She heard music in the background, then a sobbing young voice.

Paul, its me Jessica. I....I need to tell you something. I've lied to you for the past two weeks. I don't even know how it happened....just, that..........Nick, he means so much to me. I love him some much. And we were talking that night he came back, then we were kissing each other then.....Paul, I'm so sorry. I don't.....we......I'm sorry. It happened, me and him. I should've stopped because of you and because of his fiance but then he came to my hotel room a week later and apologized and the next thing I knew were at it again. Paul, I'm sorry...I love you......I have to go....bye.

Carmen pulled the phone away and handed it to Paul.
"I'm sorry for your friend Carm, but its better you and me know then her. And I just hope that Drew doesn't.....he doesn't do the same thing that Nick is doing. Hopefully he won't run back to his ex-girlfriend." he said after awhile.
Thoughts of Lea filled Carmens mind, and this time she couldn't push them away. The rest of the ride was silent until they both got off the ride. Carmen looked toward Drew who was smiling at her and she whispered,
"I want to go home."
"What's wrong?" Drew asked, wrapping an protective arm around her. Carmen stiffed up and tried to keep her distance.
"Nothing....just take me home."
The ride home was awkward, and when Drew tried to kiss her goodnight, she purposely moved her head so he would kiss her cheek, then ran into her house. Their she saw the beeping machine and knew before she pushed the play button it was Renee. She was scared, and for the first time in life she didn't know what to do. She wanted to cuss the hell out of Nick but then there was Renee. Could she tell her? She decided she would tell her when they would have a break from the play, a week away, in person.

Finally the week came and her and Paul had spent too much time talking. Too much time together period. She had avoided Drew purposely and she knew that she was starting to peek his curiousity. He asked her if she wanted to go the basketball game with him and Nick that Friday night, but she mournfully nodded no. She didn't want to be the "extra package" in whatever he was doing and decided to just let him go to be with his girl. If there was one. Paul was hinting to her that there possibly could be, and she was starting to believe him. She got off her plane and told the driver the driver her destination. It was just getting dark out here and she knew in New York, were the game was, it would just be ending. On the way there, she checked her messages.

Hey Carm-Carm, I went to that game. I know you didn't want me too but I thought it best. Anyways I was hanging out with Brad and the gang when I spotted Nick and Drew.....with Jessica on Nick's arm and a blonde on Drew's. Babygirl I'm sorry, but like his low-life brother, he's cheating on you. Just wanted to let you know, call me if you need me.

Carmen could of cried she was so distressed. The cab stopped and she paid him and blankly went up the un-familiar apartment steps. She finally made it to the door she was looking for and knocked on it twice hard. By the time Renee answered it she was bawling.
"What's wrong Carmel." Renee asked, already concerned about her friend who almost never cried.
"He...and I......." Carmen couldn't breathe, she was in so much pain. Why could he do this to her, why could he? Renee escorted her to the couch, and started to rub her back.
"What is it? Your scaring me."
"Its Drew....he...he..." she couldn't get herself to spit it out.
"Carmen, its not good to hold it in. The pain will only become twice as bad."
"I came here to suprise you because I have the weekend off and I got a call and I found out that.....that..."
"What?"
"That Drew's cheating on me!" she managed out. She said, before bursting into tears.
"What? He can't. He loves you. Nick told me on the phone the other day. You helped him.....Drew, he.....who told you this."
"Paul."
"And you believed him?" Renee asked confused. Carmen wasn't vulnerable, especially when it came to guys petty games.
"Yes but only because, oh Renee I'm sorry, so sorry." Carmen started to cry again.
"What?" she asked confused. Carmen decided to take a huge breathe in. If she was going to tell her, she wanted it to happen with one breathe.
"Nick's cheating on you. With Jessica. They had sex and everything."
"What?" Renee asked, now sinking back on the couch. Carmen turned to her and started to rub the eyeshadow that was now pouring down her face.
"I didn't believe it either. I thought Paul was just BSing me but then I listened to the message she left him, its so horrible. And she cheated on Paul with Nick, and Nick cheated on you. And they've been doing it ever since."
Renee couldn't breathe. In fact, she felt her heart lunge out.
"I'm sorry. So, so, sorry. I know how you feel. I loved Drew and...and...." The tears started to pour down her face again. Just then Renee's phone rang and they both looked at each other, teary eyed and all.
"I....I..can get it..." Carmen sobbed. Renee nodded, the tears already seeping down her face.
"Hello?" she breathed into the phone.

[StargateGirl]

Oh come on.... she should've went to the game to see if he was lying or not. :ugh: lol I'm so pissed right now. lol

[Raevengeance]

Paul (and I'm sure Jess is behind it as well) is (are) a real A$$

I agree with Les - Car shoulda gone to the game - she woulda known the truth then instead of believing that BS

[Biondo Sorto]

yeah, but then the story wouldn't get interesting and i wouldn't get a reaction out of my readers :P

[jnd98forever]

Ahhhhhhh you got me sitting at the edge of my seat girl i think i might even fall off
who the hell is on the the riggin phone i want to know now!!!!!*pouts*

[Biondo Sorto]

Sowwy...u gotta wait :P

[Kristen07]

But don't worry, once it does come, it'll be REALLY good :D :hehe: :P

[Kristen07]

This is a beginning of a two part add. I'm sorry that this is so short, but the next part will be longer and just as entertaining! This one will also set the stage for the next part. I hope y'all enjoy :)

Renee sat back on her couch, the information that Carmen had just hold her trying to sick in. It was all BS, Nick would cheat never her, he loved her too much. Didn’t he? But maybe Jessica had been gotten him drunk enough and used her sex appeal to persuade him to.
It seemed like Carmen was talking to Nick and his temper was fiery hot as the Sahara Desert. And as she told him what Paul had been saying, Nick got even more pissed off. Renee could hear him cussing really badly. But he seemed to re[arse]uring Carmen that the claims that Drew was a cheater as well were false. Finally, she got to talk to him.

“Hello?� Renee was trying to control her tears.

“Hey. Do you believe all this that you have heard?�

“I don’t know, Nick. I really don’t. So, do you have sex with her?� She asked, dying to know the truth.

“That is the biggest piece of [freak'n]ING BULL[crap] I have ever heard in my life. We had sex, but that was when we were married and that was three or more years ago. You’re the only woman I’ve had sex with since then and I plan to keep it that way.� He sighed.

“And was she at that game with you?� Renee asked.

“Yeah, but that was only because she begged me to let her come. I finally relented. But I never touched her once.� Nick said. “God, I just want to punch the hell out of Paul right now, screwing all our lives up. You’ve never met him, have you?�

“Not at all. He just seems like a really shady character� Renee sniffled. “But I’m still so scared that I’m going to lose you, Nicholas� She was close to breaking down. She couldn’t stand the thought of life without Nick.

Nick sighed a frustrated sigh. He hated to just sit here and listen to her cry because of this. She could tell all he wanted to do right now was go to California, wrap his arms around her and tell her everything going to be ok. “You ARE NOT going to lose me, baby. I have told you time and time again, I lost love for Jessica the night I found out that she was cheating on me.� He paused “Do you trust me?�

Renee thought for a few minutes. “Yes, I do, Nick.�

“Well it doesn’t seem like it to me at times. You’re always worrying about why Jessica might come between us and I have never given you a reason to think that anything will come between us. I don’t understand.�

“It’s not you I don’t trust….� Renee tried to begin.

“Then what is it?� Nick interjected angrily.

“Jessica. I don’t trust her. I just know that she’s going to do everything in her power to make you come back to her. You’ve resisted her attempts, I know, but she seems like the type to me that will do anything to get what she wants� Renee felt like crying again.

Nick was getting pretty pissed off, despite her state of emotion “But she’s not going to get it this time. Honestly, Renee, what is it going to take for you to see that nothing is going to happen, as much as you think it is going to�

“When she realizes you are off the market and can’t have you� Renee said. She was also thinking about what had happened to her before and how she had had her heart broken by that. Nick didn’t know about it, but she didn’t intend to tell him right now because he didn’t seem in the mood to give her sympathy.

“Maybe I won’t be so for long, if you don’t quit having this paranoid attitude.� Nick said in an angry and sarcastic tone.

That really hurt Renee. She started “I can’t help it Nick, it’s part of me. I know I shouldn’t, but… it happens. I scold myself every time I do it�

“I can’t talk to you anymore� Nick hung up. Renee cried harder, knowing she had really made him mad and more motivated to go out with Jessica, just to piss her off.
Carmen had been watching and had calmed down for the time being, ran to Renee’s side. “What did he say, Renee?� She asked.
“I …made a comment about that I would quit being paranoid when… she left, and if … she would realize he was… off the market, but then he said, Maybe I won’t be for long if you don’t quit having this attitude� Renee kept on crying. “He’s probably going to go out and cheat on me now, just to make me mad�
“I’m so sorry, Ren� Carmen hugged her “Our lives are just hell, aren’t they?�
Renee nodded. “Yeah, they are� She cried for awhile and then another person called, and it was Drew. Carmen talked to him, and they seemed to work out things for the time being. He seemed pretty mad about Paul screwing things up. As she watched them talk, she was jealous. They could calmly talk things out and fix things. She wished she and Nick could do that.
Then Carmen took a call from someone else. “Well, I got invited a party tomorrow night. And Nick and Jess are supposed to be there�
“Nuh uh, you expect me to go with you? Nick’s mad at me, and Jessica just hates my presence because I’m his fiancé. Not me, no way!� Renee wiped her eyes.
“But don’t you want to see if his words are true?�
“I know they are but…� Renee stopped off. “I don’t know. I’ll think about it�
“You’re coming whether you like it or not. We are going to do some detective work.� Carmen had a devilish look on her face.
“Oh great� Renee thought. “I’m not looking forward tomorrow night�

[Biondo Sorto]

Ohh, goood add Kris :P
Hmmm, me and Renee are sneaky...wh@'s gonna happen next? >P

[Biondo Sorto]

opps, posted wrong part in wrong story, lol :Blush:

[StargateGirl]

Ok, I know he's mad and all, but come on he didn't have to hang up on her. He has to at least understand how she's feeling...goodness. :ugh:

Good thinking on Carmen making Renee go to the party...hehe.

I can't wait for the next add.

[Kristen07]

Hey y'all,

I am working on the add right now so hopefully I will have it toinght, but if not, it will be in the next couple days

[Kristen07]

Here it is, y'all :) I'm sorry it took so long, i haven't really been able to work on stories for one reason or another this week. I hope y'all enjoy :)

The next night came. Carmen had been adamant about that Renee come to the party with her. But Renée didn’t want to, for several reasons. One, she was just not in the going out mood. Two, Nick and Jessica were going to be there together and the thought of it made her very sick to the stomach. And finally, Nick was mad at her, and if he saw her there, he would think even more that she didn’t trust him, so why even bother to go?
She had stated these reasons, but Carmen remained unmoved. “So what, he doesn’t have to know that you were there�
“But I’ll feel guilty afterwards. And I really don’t want to have to make myself see them together�
“But don’t you want to know if Nick’s words are absolutely true? Come on, I’m doing this for the good of your relationship�
Renee nodded “I already know they are….at least I think they are� she finally relented “Ok, we’ll go. But we are going top make sure that Nick and Jessica don’t see us, once�
“Good, now let’s make ourselves look pretty�
Renee went through her closet and found a baby blue tube top, black slacks, black jacket, and black heels. Carmen chose a green dress that she had brought with her.
For hair and make up, Renee just bushed her hair out straight and left it down and did enough make up to her look glam.
“Aren’t you going to put on a little more make up than that? And leave your hair like that? Even thought I’m not a make up fan, I would put on more than that?�
Renee nodded. “I just don’t feel like dolling up that much, that’s all� She looked at the clock. “It’s 7:30 Carm, the party starts in 30 minutes
“I know. We can just show up fashionably late. I’ll be ready in a minute�

40 minutes later, the duo arrived to the party, unnoticed at first. Then they mingled with other people, talking to them and Carmen greeting people she hadn’t seen in awhile. Renee was managing to have a good time, despite the reason they were there. One of Carmen’s hot former co-stars was even kind of flirting with her. She flirted back, but then showed off the ring. He didn’t seem to mind, even asked her if she wanted to dance with him. She politely turned down the offer, since it would probably make the situation between her and Nick worse.
Speaking of, the duo hadn’t been sighted yet. Are you sure they are supposed to be here, Carmel?�
“Positive. There’s loads of people here, so we just haven’t seen them yet�
“Ok. But we don’t see them by the end of the night, you will have a crabby camper on your hands�
Carmen laughed dryly “Don’t worry, we’ll see them�
5 minutes later, they did. Nick looked really handsome in his blue dress shirt sand black slacks, and Jessica had on a dress that showed a lot of cleavage. She looked like a sex kitten. Luckily, they weren’t touching each other.
“Gosh, it makes me sick to look at them. She doesn’t deserve him� Carmen said angerly under her breath.
“Think how that must feel when you are the one engaged to him.� Renee said sadly.
“Have you talked to Paul?� Renee asked her.
Carmen shook her head “No. Why?�
“Have you talked to Drew about him?�
“Not in detail really�
“Well, you need to. I’m sure he’s really worried about how you have been avoiding him for the past week, since everything was fine till then�
“He could have sensed something, since the three of us went to Coney Island recently� Carmen told her.
Renee raised her eyebrow. “Really? And how did that go?�
“He told me all that BS…. I hope about Drew, Nick and Jessica.�
“Nick said it was all BS, that he had had sex with Jessica when they were married but not since they divorced. He hasn’t even touched her in an affectionate manner without her going first. So that hopefully means he doesn’t love her� She sighed.
“But he might be falling into what he thinks is love again�
“I’m afraid of that, too� They looked over to Nick and Jessica talking to some people, still no signs of affection being shown.
The duo decided to mingle some more, keeping of close eye on Nick and Jessica. Jessica would sometimes touch his hand or put her arm around him, but he didn’t return it. Was it because he really didn’t feel it for her, or because there were so many people around? Renee wanted to cry right there, because she hated how paranoid she was being and this attitude could cause her to lose him altogether. And she couldn’t picture life without Nick, not at all.
She decided to freshen up in the restroom. She excused herself from her table and headed there. As she got in the stall, she saw familiar feet walk in the door. It was Jessica. Oh no, this was going to be major trouble.
After she got out, she went up to the sinks and began to wash her hands. Jessica came out a few seconds later. Renee was trying to avoid her glance. She really did look as *****y as some people said. And her dress looked like it was showing even more cleavage up close. “Excuse me, do I know you?� Jessica asked her in a polite voice.
Oh no. She recognized her. Then again, she did see them on E! for the Rent premiere coverage. Renée tried her best to keep her cool. “No, I don’t believe so.� She covered her hand that had the ring on it.
“But you look so familiar.� Jessica said. “Ah, I know now. You’re Nick’s fiancé, aren’t you?�
Renee figured she might as well admit it…. In a backhanded way. “Maybe. Do you have a problem with that, Jessica?�
“Oh, I most certainly do, Renee� Jessica said, a baleful smile on her face. “You’re in the way of my prize.�
“Your prize? Jeez, you had him. But then you screwed things up by cheating on him and he lost all feelings for you�
“And how do you know that?�
Renee cleared her throat. “Nick’s told me so several times�
“I might be doubting that. He seems to have gained them back when I have been with him.� Jessica told him
“How can you tell?’ Renee asked, still trying not to lose it.
�We’ve kissed several times, it has even lead to us having sex when he returned from being with you in New York�
“You’re a [freak'n]ing liar, Jess� Renee told her blatantly. “It’s all a bunch of lies�
“Oh am I?� Jessica asked sarcastically, still keeping that baleful smile. “You’d be surprised to see what he’s been doing behind your back. I hate to break it to you, hun but I think you’ll have to give up that ring when Nick comes back to me, where he belongs�
“I still don’t believe you, I never will� Renee told her, standing her ground. “I think I know Nicholas well enough to know that he wouldn’t cheat on me�
“Well then, you don’t know him as well as you think you do. He’ll be mine before long, you’ll see. Don’t cry too much when that happens� Jessica headed out, laughing an evil laugh.
Renee sighed, going out herself and immediately looking for the nearest exit. She found it, oblivious to her surroundings. When she was out, she collapsed crying on the sidewalk. For what Jessica said, what Nick had said last night and just everything in her life.

She had been crying for about 5 minutes when, shockingly, she felt a familiar arm around her shoulder. A male arm, for that matter.
“What’s wrong, Renee?� He whispered in her ear. It was Nick. She didn’t know if he had seen her or how he got to her, but right now she didn’t care. She was glad he was here, next to her.
“I ran into Jessica� She sobbed, unable to look at him.
Nick seemed to tense up a bit “What did she say to you?�
“Just that I don’t know you as well as I think I do and that she’ll have you in time. She also gave me the same BS that Carmen said Paul said about you having sex and kissing several times beforehand�
“It’s BS, Ren. Don’t believe it. She’s just trying to scare you off so she can have me all to herself.� Nick ran his fingers through her hair. “Do you want me to take you home?�
Renee nodded, still unable to look at him because of last night.
�Give me your hands� He helped her up and they walked to his car.

The ride over was very awkward. The tension in the air from the argument the night previous was palpable. Once they got there, Renee asked “Can you please come in, Nick? I need to talk to you�
“Sure� He said. They went up to her apartment.

They went to her room to talk, just in case Carmen would come in and they would have complete privacy. “First things first, I want to apologize for what I said last night� Nick said. “It was wrong to say and I don’t mean the word of it�
“But why did you say it, Nick? It really hurt me and I was afraid I had motivated you to go out with her just to make me mad� Renee was still drying her tears.
Nick was silent for a moment. “I said it because I was just in an overall pissed off mood yesterday. I was mad at Jessica, I was mad at Paul saying all the things he has been saying, I was frustrated with the tour and being away, and the says you were saying were frustrating me, it just came out. And when you were trying to explain to me why you felt the way you did, I should have sat and listened. But I didn’t because I was just too mad. Trust me the argument could have gotten worse.� Nick took her hand “I really am sorry, babe. I didn’t mean a word of what I said and I should of listened to what you had to say�
Renee nodded “I just hate what this is doing to us, Nick�
“What?�
“This whole few months since we have been engaged. We had been fighting a lot and then this on top of it. I miss the old days�
“I know, I do too, babe� He sighed “But we’ll get through it together, I promise. I am not going to let her come between us. So, do you want to finish what you were trying to tell me last night?�
“If you’re willing to listen and not get mad at me� she said flatly.
“I’m all ears� He told her, taking her hand in his.
“Well, I know you would never give me a reason, it’s just the way I am and I really hate it. I scold myself every time I do it because I know you could get sick of it and leave me just form that.� She paused, tears threatening to spill again. “And I also have been in this situation before and I came out on the short end, so that has also affected my attitude on this�
“I was in college and dating this guy, Bryan. Everything was going perfect. I even thought I we would marry for a time. But then, out of nowhere, absolutely nowhere, he dumped me for his ex, saying he loved her more.� Usually, she wouldn’t cry over it now, but she was in such an emotionally vulnerable mood, the tears came down her cheeks again.
Nick put his hand to her face and wiped the tears away with his thumb. “Did you know that he was cheating you?�
Renee shook her head. “Not at all. I can’t believe he was able to deceive me like that. I guess I was complete naïve. It really hurt, Nick, you have no idea. I avoided any romantic contact with men for the next two years. But then I met you and I got over that fear, so I thought. So, since I am in the same situation again, I’m scared that it will happen to me again. Because there is no way I could take that heartache again.�
“I’m really sorry, Renee. I didn’t know that happened to you.� Nick said, brushing her hair away from her face. “Why didn’t you tell me before?�
“I didn’t think there was a need to because it was hurt that I thought I was over.
But since our argument last night, I figured telling you would make you understand better where I am coming form and why I feel this way. Though, I also see why you got mad at me. You had a right to be�
“Did other guys pursue you during those two years?�
Renee nodded “There were a few, but I was so paralyzed with the fear that I would get hurt again that they didn’t make it past the first date. But then about two weeks before we met, I just said to myself “Look, it’s time you got over what Bryan did to you and love again, because there is another guy out there for you, you just don’t know who it is or when he will come�. We really caught each other off guard that night, though. So, now you know why.�
“I understand better now. He really hurt you, I can tell. But I won’t do the same thing Renee. I gave you my heart and my promise to you the day I gave you this ring� He put two fingers on her engagement ring. “And I intend to follow through on that promise in every way�
She smiled, the first time in a few days. “Thank you, Nicholas. I’m glad we talked this out�
“I am, too, babe. And I want to apologize again for last night�
“You don’t have to. It was just a bad night for the both of us.� Renee told him. “How long are you here in LA?�
“Just till morning. I have to leave pretty early, about 8:30�
“Will you please stay here with me tonight? I need you here.� She said, her eyes pleading.
“You didn’t have to ask. Don’t worry, I am not going anywhere tonight, baby�
“Ok, darling� They kissed and then Nick went to take a shower.
Renee put on a tank top and pajama pants and laid on her bed. This night had been eventful and emotional for her. But it had all worked out for the best, her and Nick had made up and he was staying at her place, where he belonged, no matter what Jessica said. But she hoped Carmen wasn’t too mad for ditching her.

A few minutes later, Nick came in, dressed only in boxers. “Man he looks so sexy� Renee thought. But she was too tired for that type of activity; just to sleep next to him would be enough.
He laid down next to her, and they wrapped their arms around each other. “I love you, Serena,� He whispered.
“I love you too, Nicky� she was the only person how could get away with calling him that, which she didn’t do very often.
Their lips met for a few minutes, and then they both just laid there together till they fell asleep.

[Biondo Sorto]

This is a really early post but your add encouraged me. If you want me to add more I can but I sort of let it open for you at the end :P
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Carmen frantically looked around the room, searching for her friend. She knew she shouldn't have let her gone to the bathroom alone....there was still the possibility that Jessica could find her and in her vulnerable state....ugh, this only made things worse. She looked for Jessica......if she found Jessica she was sure she could find Nick. She spotted her talking to a familiar blonde guy and started to walk over to her.
"Excuse me, Jessica."
Jessica turned around as well as the blonde guy, who turned out to be Paul.
"Paul." she stated flatly.
"Hello Carm, I thought you weren't going to this party?"
"Well Rene convinced me to go so yeah, I'm here." she looked toward Jessica and sighed.
"Have you seen Nick?"
Jessica rolled her eyes.
"He left with that insecure fiance of his. What he see's in her I don't know."
"What he see's in her is something better than the piece of [arse] that's standing next to me."
Jessica looked at her and squinted her eyes.
"Mind repeating that?"
"You heard me. You look like a freakin' [nice person]. For a preachers daughter you sure don't look like one." she sneered, turning around and starting to walk away. People were already looking their way and she didn't want to 'cause a bigger scene.
"Hey babe," Paul grabbed her by the hand but Carmen snatched it back,
"As for you, I don't believe I once even considered marrying you. Gosh, what a waste of human life."
She turned around again but Paul pulled her toward him.
"What's all this? A week ago you want to be buds and now you want to go back to the two-timing weasle?"
"I don't mind going back to that two timing weasle because unlike you he's a real man, so let me go."
"Oh let her go Paul. The [nice person] isn't even worth it." Jessica spat.
"[nice person]? Did you see what your wearing. Hell, if it wasn't for this tour then Nick wouldn't even want to be involved with you."
"Your pushing your buttons, Carmen."
"Oh please." Carmen rolled her eyes. She may be civilized but she'd been in enough fights before she met Renee to earn her respect. Heck, Renee was one of the reasons why Carmen had stopped fighting in High School....sometimes. She was a troubled child back then.
"What are you implying, do you want to fight?"
"If it will get you to shut the hell up then yeah, screw the public, screw the people, lets just get it over with."
Jessica started to tense up when someone pulled Carmen back.
"She's not worth it babe."
She turned around and spotted Drew, but was so inflicted with anger she could care less.
"One blow. If I get a good shot I can screw her nose up. Or I can mess up her chords, hell, make them worse then they already are."
"Carmen, its not worth it." He started to pull her away from Jessica and Paul, and away from the party. Once they got outside, camera's surronded them and Drew quicky pushed her into a limo. She sighed as they pulled off.
"why'd you do that?"
"The media would have a field day."
"I don't care. I'm tired of trying to impress the media. One blow and I would of got her off of Renee's back for a long time."
"Carmen, babe, I know your mad but you need to calm down."
Carmen looked at him, then looked around.
"Your not my manager."
"No, I'm not." he smiled. She smiled back and wrapped her arms around him.
"What are you doing here?"
"I was bored and lonely in New York without you, and I missed you. A whole week and I went out of my mind going crazy about you."
"Sorry about that. I was stupid to even think...." she started to talk but then he cut her off.
"We talked about this. Its over and done with. Just a big misunderstanding on all of our part."
"Okay." she sighed and rested her head against his chest.
"Hmmm, I sure have missed you." she said after a while. Drew chuckled and pulled her closer to him.
"Me too."
They were silent until Carmen shot up from her spot.
"Where are you staying?"
"I was hoping to stay at Renee's."
"Well...she doesn't have a lot of room. Her guest room is packed with stuff and I've been sleeping on her couch......"
"We'll make do." Drew shrugged. Carmen laughed and nodded.
"She owes me for ditching me at the party anyways."

The next morning Carmen woke up to Renee looking in her face.
"What do you want?" she whispered. she looked up and noticed Drew. She turned around a bit and noticed she was still in his arms.
"So you guys aren't cool, eh?"
"Well....." she was still confused as she started to get out of his embrace. He groaned and pulled her closer to him. She thought for a minute, then said,
"baby, I gotta go pee."
"Fine." he mumbled, letting her go and going back to sleep. Carmen got up, stretched and followed Renee to the kitchen.
"So let me get this straight. You haven't touched a guy, slept with a guy in the same house as you, or in the same bed as you 'till Drew came along?" she turned toward her friend and smirked.
"And your wearing his shirt."
Carmen looked down and blushed.
"Where's Nick?"
"Don't try to change the subject. But if you want to know he's taking a shower. I couldn't believe it when he said you guys were out on the couch but you were." she laughed and started to open the fridge for eggs.
"What time is it?" Carmen yawned.
"6:45. Nick has to leave here by 7:30"
"I never been this early in my life..."
"I know." Renee laughed. Carmen laughed, then snapped her fingers remebering last nights events.
"Oh....oh, me and Drew were watching a movie and I guess we dozed off together."
"I wasn't asking but thanks anyway." Renee laughed. She turned on the TV and started to cook her scrabble eggs when a headliner came up on the news.

Last night's Wild and Fun party at the Four Season's Hotel was exactly that. Stars Paul Walker, Jason Biggs, Carmen Diaz, Carmen Electra, John Travolta, Brad Pitt, "P-Diddy" and Tom Cruise were only some of the people that atteneded the party. Touring stars Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson appeared, but didn't seem the least bit interested in each other, at least Nick didn't. While he met the top ten best dressed list for the night, he's date appeared looking quite *****y in a low-cut dress that showed too much of her clevage, either way. Sparks flew when actress Carmen Opio seemed to confront the bad-dressed singer about issues invovling Nick and her fiance. This best dressed star was escorted out of the building with her "supposendly" boyfriend, Drew Lachey, Nick Lachey's brother, to keep her from doing any bodily harm to the young singer. For more details, pleased stay tuned....

The clip moved on to another Hollywood party and Renee looked over at her friend, her mouth wide open.
"Hehe, bagel?" Carmen offered, giving a soft smile and holding up a honey-toasted bagel.

[Kristen07]

Darn, you shoulda let Carmen hit Jessica! :P But at least she confronted her! :D and good move on Drew's part on keep her back.
This leaves things WIDE open! Thank you! I can't wait to write this one :D

[Biondo Sorto]

Thought so :P
U inspired me so I thought I return the favor :wink:

[StargateGirl]

LOL! I like how Renee found out about that. lol.

I liked both adds.

[Kristen07]

Just wanted to let y'all know that this story hasn't been forgotten. I am working on an add but just haven't gotten a chance to finish it. Hopefully it will come soon. Sorry for the wait, y'all :)

[Kristen07]

There's another part coming, I just thought I'd go ahead and post this

Renee took it, but not without protest. “Carmen Laina! I thought you promised me you wouldn’t get into any more fights! You could have been arrested, for god’s sake! And now look! You’ve started a media frenzy!�
“Paul and Jessica were really making me mad. But I only ran into them in the first place because I was looking for Nick. Trust me, I could have given her one hell of a punch that would have kept her off your and Nick’s back for a long time! But Drew didn’t let me�
“I appreciate it, but Carmen, you really didn’t have to do that� Renee said timidly. “What did you say to her?�
Carmen recounted the incident and Renee laughed at some of the things she said to Jessica. “My gosh Carmen, you can come up with the wittiest one liners.
“Hey, this is what you love me for, right?�
“Right. Did Jessica say anything about me?� She asked, afraid to know the answer.
“Only that you were insecure and she doesn’t know what he sees in you�
“Oh, good. I thought she might say more. But really, I’m not insecure, I’m just too cautious for my own good.� Renée sighed.
“Did you see Jessica last night?�
Renee nodded, thinking about what Jessica had said to her. “There you go changing the subject again. But yeah, I did�
“What did she say?�
“That I didn’t know Nick as well as I thought I did, and he would be back in her arms in no time. She also gave me the same BS that she gave Paul about them having sex after he came back from New York. But I told her she was a [freak'n]ing liar, and that’s quoted�
Carmen gasped, “Sweet little Renee actually cussed? I don’t believe it!�
Renee rolled her eyes “I do, but it takes a lot to get me that far. And believe me, she got me there. If I had the courage that you did, I’d have slapped her in the face myself. God, I hate her�
“I think we all do� Carmen said, sighing.
Renée finished cooking breakfast, and divided the eggs evenly onto four plates. She added some bacon and then handed Carmen her plate. “Thanks�
“You’re welcome. We’re going to have to eat in the living room because I don’t have enough room in my kitchen for all four of us to eat comfortably.�
She then put on some coffee, because she knew everyone except her liked coffee. “Are you going to wake up Drew?�
“Yep, I will� Carmen went back to the living room. Renee headed to her room to see Nick finishing fixing up his hair. “ I thought you weren’t going anywhere special, Lachey�
Nick looked at her “Haven’t you figured out all ready and that I always do this after I wash my hair?�
“I was just teasing. Breakfast is ready if you want some.�
“Great� Nick followed her out to the kitchen and she handed him his plate. “Thanks, babe�
“You’re welcome, honey� They kissed.
Out of the corner of her eye she could see Carmen smirking “Don’t, Carm, you and Drew are just as bad, if not worse�
Once everyone had settled in, Drew said, “Renee, don’t take this as an offence, but this place is small�
�I know. It’s enough for me, but once company comes in, which isn’t often, it can be a huge problem. I don’t have mega bucks to spend like some of you all do.�
They all laughed “But that’ll change once you get married, won’t it?� Carmen asked.
“I hope so. We really haven’t looked at houses… and the wedding is in two and a half months!�
“Wow, that soon, eh?� Drew asked, “That’s not that far off�
“Let’s just hope we can make it that far,� Renee thought sadly.
“How much longer do you have to tour, Nick?� Carmen asked him.
Nick thought for a moment. “A month and half, I’d say. Its gonna be to be hell, I can tell you that much.�
“Especially after all the drama that went on last night� Renee said “Carmen had her own confrontation with Jessica after we left�
“Oh really?� Nick asked
“Yep. I was looking for you to see if you’d found Renee because she had gone off alone. But when I found her, she happened to be with Paul, my ex, and they both made me mad, and I almost hit her, but Drew kept me back�
“It’s just wouldn’t have been worth it. This incident alone will be splattered all over the tabloids, if I know the media� Drew said.
“Unfortunately� Nick said in a bitter tone. He and Jessica’s divorce had been speculated about all over the media and he didn’t want to go through that again.
“You’re right Drew. Ren and I just saw it on the news. But I don’t care too much. I don’t want to impress the media anymore. How cares what they think about me? They can portray me as whoever the hell they want, as long as the people who really know me know the truth�
“Aww… we love you too, Carm� Drew kissed Carmen’s cheek.
They finished breakfast and then Renée and Nick went back to her room for a minute. “Do you want to come to the airport with me babe?� Nick asked.
“Sure, I guess. I just hope we won’t see Jessica there�
Nick sighed, “I hope not, either, but I am sure she was the same flight to go back as me. But let’s just not worry about that possibility, ok?�
“Ok� Nick gathered his things and they went back to the front of the apartment. ‘
Carmen and Drew seemed to be cozying up very nicely on Renee’s couch. “I’m going with Nick top the airport. Be good you two. No sex on my couch, please!�
Carmen batted her an innocent look “Now we wouldn’t do that, now would we? You two get some time alone, ok?�
Nick raised his eyebrows “It’s nothing, Nick. Let’s go�

They sat in comfortable silence on the way to the airport and also when Nick had his bags checked for the plane. “Well, babe, I guess this is where I leave you again�
Renee nodded sadly “I know�. She was fighting back tears.
Nick wrapped his arms around her. “It’s going to be ok. I know you’re scared about what’s going to happen as I am, but I promise that I will not let anything happen to us, ok?�
“I know you won’t. I’m really going to miss you. Is this the last I am going to see you before the tour is over?�
“I’ll miss you too. It probably will be. Hopefully we’ll be able to get out of it alive. But I think we will.�
They stood there in a hug for a few minutes, and then they kissed. “I love you, Renee� He said.
“I love you too, baby� They kissed again, and then Nick unwillingly let go of her and headed towards the gate.

[Kristen07]

Here's the next part y'all. It's telling from Nick's side and I kind of wanted to introduce an element that might cause some trouble in the future. :P So enjoy!

Nick sighed as he left Renee at the airport. He really didn’t want to go back on tour. Jessica was probably livid at him for ditching her last night. But knowing her she probably flirted with Paul all night because Carmen said she was with Paul when she confronted her. They were supposed to be dating weren’t they? Nick figured it was probably just PR and she really didn’t love him. Same thing with this situation that everyone was embroiled in. It was all just so they could get press and look good. He remembered how his and Jessica’s divorce had been plastered all over the tabloids. It had really hurt him and it didn’t help his grief that he was feeling over the loss of the relationship and Jessica hurting him. To be honest, he really didn’t get why Jessica had cheated on him. She had it all with him, why did she screw it up? But she sure as hell wasn’t getting it back. He had moved on and was going to prove that to her when he and Renee get married in May.

He saw her at the gate. “Where were you last night? You ditched me!�
“It’s none of your business�
“No, wait, you were with that insecure fiancé of yours, weren’t you? Honestly Nick, why are you marrying her? She’s not that pretty and seems like a clingy needy type that’s like ‘don’t leave me!’ � She said the last part in a really whiny voice.
Rage filled Nick’s body. How dare she have the audacity to insult Renee in front of him? As far as he was concerned, Renee was the most beautiful woman in the world. And no way was she insecure, she was just afraid of getting hurt again, which he had no intension of doing. “You’re just jealous, Jessica� He said, trying to keep in temper in check.
Jessica looked offended “Me? Be jealous? Have I ever been jealous of somebody in the time that you’ve known me?�
“Damn right you have� Nick thought bitterly. She had been jealous of him several times in their marriage. But to satisfy her he said, “No�
“Then why do you accuse me of something that I am not?�
“Just drop it�
�Nick…� Jessica said in that familiar tone that she used when she was very annoyed with him.
“Jessica, drop it.� His voice sounded firm and final.

~In Philadelphia~

They headed for a sound check at the arena for the show that night. Jessica was acting sweet again, evidently forgetting their argument that morning. It was times like that where he would get under his skin a bit and make him wish “Maybe I should go back to her�. But those feelings only lasted for a second because he knew that what temporary satisfaction that Jessica could give him never could match the love Renee gave him. He had lost all love for Jessica that night he found out she was cheating on him, and he never wanted his heart broken like that again. Renee had healed that broken heart and made him realize what true love really was. He’d made a mistake before, but he’d gotten it right this time. What they had was true love and Nick could truly see them growing old together and having a family together. And nothing, absolutely nothing, was going to get in the way of that.
Jessica had playfully touched his hand again before going off to her sound check. It definitely seemed like that she had no intensions of backing down on him. But he was going to stand his ground and make sure that she did not tempt him.
After she was done, he did his sound check and then they went to do a meet and greet, making sure it was all smiles for the fans. Then he went to his dressing room to call Renee.

“Hello?�

“Hey babe, what are you doing?�

“Hey honey, not much. Hanging around my apartment.�

“Drew and Carmen still there?�

“Oh yeah, they’re here, glued together on the couch�
Nick could hear Drew say, “We are not!!�
Renee shot back at him “Well that’s what it looks like to me!�
And then Carmen said “You’re just jealous that you don’t have Nick to kissy face with you�
“Shut up, Cam� Renee said bitterly.
“What it’s the truth, I can tell just by looking at you�

“Babe, don’t tell me you’ve been depressing yourself all day because I’m not there� Nick told her.

“I’m not, I just can’t help but get a little jealous, that’s all. So what did she have to say to you when you got to the gate?�

“Was just mad that I ditched her last night. Come on, let’s just drop Jessica from our conversations.�

“Jeez, Nick, I was just curious. It seemed to me like she would throw a fit� Renee seemed taken aback a bit.

“I wasn’t trying to start a fight, I was just suggesting. So what have you three been up to today?�

“Nothing really. Hanging out. I think Carm and Drew leave for the airport in an hour or so� Renee sighed.

“You sound glad for that�

“In a way. I’m a person who loves her solitude and I’m really craving some right now. Not that I mind their presence, they can really cheer you up or make a smart [arse] comment that you just can’t help but laugh at�

“And I don’t do that?� Nick had a pretend pouty tone.

Renee laughed, “You have your moments too, Nick.� They talked for a little bit and then Nick looked at his watch. 7:20! He needed to have started getting ready a half an hour ago! “Man I’m gonna get my butt whipped. I shoulda started getting ready a half hour ago.�

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hold you up�

Nick smiled “It’s ok. I don’t mind you holding me up. Well, I’m gonna go. Love you�

“I love you more!� Renee said.

“No, I love you more!� Nick hung up. He won, for that time. They liked to play the love you more game sometimes for fun. Sighing, he picked up his clothes and started to get ready for the show in which he had pretend everything was all right when he wasn’t sure if it was.

[Biondo Sorto]

Aww, cute adds Kris!! :wink:
Tartersauce, Now I have to think of something, lol. :)
Hmmm, what to put? :P

[Kristen07]

I'm sure whatever you ocme up with will be great :)

[Biondo Sorto]

Me and Kris must be on a two-add roll because I have another post for mine, lol :P Hope you enjoy, I promise the next add will be way better :)
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*
Carmen was just stepping out the shower when she spotted Renee staring down at the phone, sitting down on her bed. She knew she had to get ready to leave for the airport, but despite what she said, Renee was her best friend and she couldn't leave her like this. She wrapped her hair up in a towel and knocked on her already opened door.
"Knock, Knock." she said, walking in. Renee nodded and started to wipe away her tears. Carmen sighed as she took a seat beside her.
"Holding up okay?"
"I guess."
"You guess?"
Renee nodded as she hung up the phone and started to get up. Carmen pulled her down.
"Your going to talk to me whether you want to or not."
"I rather not."
"Scarene...." she started to taunt. She knew she hated that name; she was dubbed with it on their fifth Halloween together. She dressed up as a monster and scared Carmen out of her wits. Carmen figured out her middle name was Serena and somehow she just fitted scare in the middle of it.
"Would you please not call me that?" Renee said scrunching up her face.
"Only if you tell me what's wrong."
"I still have my doubts."
"About what? Nick?"
"Yeah."
"The man just completely slobbered over you this morning, and I'm sure showed other signs of affections when he took you away from the party last night. Why keep doubting yourself. Its obvious he still loves you."
"Yeah?"
"Yeah. Rene....you got to stop doing this to yourself. You’re going to drive yourself into a heart attack."
"I know."
"Relax.....listen, I know it may not show and all but last night when you left I was freakin out. I knew Paul was going to be at that party and I was still having some doubts about me and Drew and, I really needed you, but you were freakin out about Nick and you and well…you know, sometimes you have to put on a brave face and sometimes good will happen to you, you know?�
“I get your point….�
“And stop doubting yourself. You gotta go with the flow of life. There’s no reason in trying to plan it or try to be extra cautious ‘cause then bad things really do happen.�
“Right.� Renee smiled, and then started to laugh.
“What?� Carmen asked confused.
“Its just that, you sound like me when I’m talking to one of my clients.�
Carmen chuckled.
“We’ve been around each other for too long, that’s the problem.�
“I know.� She said, and then looked toward Carmen.
“Are you just jumping in the shower?�
“Now I was getting out and saw you. I don’t want to leave you all shook and up and depressed and all.�
“Yeah, I know.� Renee said getting up. She was leaving the room when Drew busted in.
“Carmen our taxi’s here and…..what are you doing?!� he asked, still seeing her in her towel.
“I was talking to Renee….�
“Our plane leaves in thirty minutes!�
“It’s an hour see its,� she looked over at the clock and screeched.
“Oh my gosh, I haven’t even packed, and gotten dressed and….� She ran out of the room still talking about all of the things she had to do. Drew groaned.
“I think I’m going to have to tell that guy to leave and call another taxi. No way is he gonna wait two hours for her to get ready.�
Renee laughed and nodded.
“You know your girlfriend too well.�

Two hours later both Carmen and Drew were headed back to New York. It did take her another hour to get ready, and by that time they had to re-schedule another flight. Renee had decided to take them to the airport so they wouldn’t have to worry about another taxi. Carmen was resting on Drew’s shoulder when Drew asked,
“What were you and Renee talking about back at her house?�
Carmen yawned and mumbled,
“What?�
“You and Renee. What were you talking about that made us late for our first plane?�
“Oh that,� she yawned again.
“She was just talking about how she was having doubts about Nick going back and all.�
“Doubts?�
“Uh huh. Renee just doesn’t like having a relationship she knows won’t be stable. But she loves Nick too much. She won’t dump him like she did Andy Johnson, poor guy. He was cute too.�
“Huh?� Drew asked completely confused.
“What?�
“Who’s Andy Johnson?�
“Her boyfriend in 9th grade. Boy was I jealous of her.�
“What?�
“He had this ex-girlfriend who still liked her and,� *yawn* “she was trying to steal him back. Renee felt she would and broke up with him.�
“Okay, what does this have to do with Nick?�
“Normally she’d break up with him, but I can tell she really loves him and she won’t call of their engagement for Jessica….like she did with Brian Taliesin.�
“Who’s Brian Taliesin?�
“Her boyfriend in 11th grade�
Drew sighed.
“Honey, why don’t you go to sleep.�
“Sleep sounds good right now.� Carmen smiled, falling asleep. Drew shook his head and pretty soon he had fell asleep also.

[jnd98forever]

great add!!! Drew really needs to stop being a nosey [arse]!!

[Kristen07]

Britt I hope you'll update soon. I'm really forward to seeing what you have :)

[Kristen07]

I miss this story :(

[Kristen07]

my comp's being mean so I can't reply to your PM. It's all good, whenever you can add :) I've just been kinda missing writing this.

[smilingdork98]

All right, I know I've let a lot of ppl down in this story and I want to add in it to but i know it won't be tonight....would tomorrow be okay?

[StargateGirl]

Add whenever you can

[Kristen07]

Whenever you can is fine :D

[Biondo Sorto]

Finally, an add!! :P
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~**~*~ *~*~*~**~*~
By the time Carmen and Drew got back to her apartment, it was already late.
“Dang, the day sure goes by fast.� Carmen sighed as they stepped off the elevator.
“You’re telling me. I just want to hit the sack.�
“You’re not going back to your hotel?� Carmen asked confused. On the cab to her place they had discussed how Drew would help her get situated, then hail a cab to go home.
“Well….I was hoping that you would consider….�
“Just because I fall asleep on you for one night, you think you can sleep into my bed that easily mister.�
“Maybe…..â€à ‚Â� Drew smiled. Carmen shook her head.
“I don’t think so. If anything, I think that you should worry about finding a cab.�
“Aww, come on Carm. Please, for me.� he started to pout. Carmen rolled her eyes and muttered,
“Fine.�
Drew laughed and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before she opened the door to let them both in. She stopped when she saw who was on the other end.
“What the hell are you doing here?�
“What am I doing here? I came here to see you.�
Carmen sighed as she stepped into the house, Drew not far behind. He looked at the person on the couch, looked at him again, then asked,
“What the hell is he doing here?�
“We already went through that, Andrew.�
Drew looked at him for a second, before he started to walk over to him. Carmen held him back,
“Let it go babe. What do you want Paul?�
Paul got up from the couch and started to walk toward them.
“Why do you ask stupid questions? Isn’t it obvious that I want you?�
“Could’ve fooled me.� Drew muttered underneath his breathe.
“I don’t believe I was talking to you, Andrew.�
“Will you stop calling him that? Its annoying me, god knows what its doing to him.�
“He doesn’t like the fact that I call him Andrew. Isn’t that name that’s on his birth certificate?� Paul taunted, getting up from his seat.
“But it’s not the name I go by so shut-up.� Drew muttered, eyeing Paul as he walked over to Carmen’s bar.
“Whatever, I didn’t come here to fight with the pretty boy. I just need to know something real quick Carm...�
“Wait, I need to know something. How the hell did you get into my house? What do you want?�
Paul chuckled as he poured himself a cup of wine.
“I was getting to that. I got in by getting in and I want to know if you’re going to stay with this pathetic excuse for a man, or stay with me.�
“God, is it not obvious?� Carmen sighed, rolling her eyes.
“I take it you choose me then.� Paul smiled. Carmen shook her head as she slumped down to the floor.
“She doesn’t want you, she never did she never will. Get the message and leave.� Drew yelled, getting frustrated with the matter even more.
“Fine.� Paul shrugged, placing down his wine gl[arse] and taking a cigarette out of his jacket pocket.
“Paul, don’t smoke in the house. I hate the smell and don’t want to have to deal with it for an hour.� Carmen whined, looking up at him.
“What was that?� Paul asked, starting to light up the cigarette.
“Don’t smoke in the f[uck]ing house! Don’t lit up your damn cigarette! What are you, retarded?� Drew yelled, getting irritated by the second. Paul shrugged his shoulders and placed the cigarette down.
“Fine.� He shrugged again, placing the lighter by a pillow and setting it on fire.
“What are you, f[uck]ing dumb!!!� Carmen yelled, heading toward the kitchen to retrieve her fire extinguisher.
“I’m tired of you dumb [arse]!!� Drew yelled, ramming himself into Paul. Carmen ran back into the living room and sighed when she spotted Drew and Paul fighting.
“Stop, I have to…I need your help!!� She screamed, pulling the trigger on the extinguisher and starting to dull the fire that was starting to get bigger. Drew and Paul ignored her and continued to fight even more. They ran into her gl[arse] coffee table making more of a mess. The fire alarm in her house started to beep and the fire had finally gone away, but now her apartment was full of smoke. She yelled even more irritated and ran to start opening more windows. By this time Drew and Paul were ramming each other into the wall, and Carmen tried to pull Drew off of Paul. Unfortunately she had came in at the wrong time and Paul ended up accidentally punching her in the jaw instead of Drew, sending her sprawling backwards. They both stopped their fighting and looked at her as she slowly got up from the gl[arse]y floor.
“Carmen I didn’t mean to….�
“No Paul, you never mean to do this, or you never mean to do that. You never meant to cheat on me but you did. You never meant to set my apartment on fire but you did. Now, I’m sure, you didn’t mean to punch me in the mouth, right? Well I’m tired of your f[uck]ing excuses. Leave!! I don’t want to hear, see, smell, touch, anything to do with you ever again. Just leave….for good. Get out of my life cause your making it hell!!� she yelled, trying to pull herself up but slipping on some gl[arse].
“Carmen…†�
“Leave!!!!!� she yelled again. Paul sighed and headed for the door. Drew started to walk toward her but she started to yell at him too.
“Don’t think your getting off so easily. Because of you my apartment is even MORE damaged? You just had to prove yourself worthy and punch him. Instead you could of helped me dull out some of the flames, but know, you had to be a man and make the situation even more worse.�
“Carmen I….�
“Leave.� She whispered, looking down.
“What?�
“LEAVE!!� she yelled, even louder this time. Drew looked at her confused, nodded, then turned around and headed for the door. When she saw it shut, she closed her eyes and started to cry. She didn’t want anything like this to happen, especially now. She crawled toward her phone and started to dial the all too familiar number. It rang twice before she heard someone say,
“Hello?�
“Renee?�
“Yeah….Carmen is that you.�
“Renee I….� she tried to hold in her sobs as she heard Renee ask,
“What’s wrong?�
“Paul was over here.�
“What?�
“He was waiting on me and Drew. He wanted me to choose between him and Drew, and of course I picked Drew. He got mad and set my pillow on fire.�
“What?�
“And then Drew had to punch him and they started to fight.�
“While the pillow is still on fire?�
“Yeah.� Carmen sobbed.
“But….did anyway try to douse it?�
“I did. And then they ran into my beautiful gl[arse] table I got as I gift from my mother, and then Drew was running Paul into the wall and I was trying to stop them and I got hit in the process. I told both of them to leave and I don’t know….what’s wrong with Drew? What am I going to do?� she started to cry more before Renee said something.
“Call the police, tell them what Paul did, and get some sleep. I’ll call up Nick and ask what’s up with his little brother.�
“All right…..thanks Renee. I’m just so…..� she started to crack up again and Renee cut her off.
“I already know Carm. You were there for me and know its time to return the favor. Just do what I said, okay.�
“Okay, bye Renee.�
“Bye Carmen.�

[Kristen07]

What an eventful night for Carm! She had a right to be mad at Drew even though he gave Paul what he deserved. Execellent add and well worth the wait to read :D

[Biondo Sorto]

Originally posted by *~ordinary_chick724~*@5/10/05, 06:34pm
What an eventful night for Carm! She had a right to be mad at Drew even though he gave Paul what he deserved. Execellent add and well worth the wait to read :D
I had too, you guys waited for what... 2 weeks?

[Kristen07]

Actually almost a month, because your last one was posted on April 11th, and today is May 10th. Oh well, I didn't mind waiting... too much, lol!

[Biondo Sorto]

ohhh, that's sad, lol

[Kristen07]

Hey y'all, I'm going to to try to update this story tonight. But this will probably be the olny stroy updating I do till my school year is done. I have two essays to write for my English final, so I'll be busy writing those. Thanks for being patient :)

[Biondo Sorto]

Kris I completly understand!!
2 weeks ago I was going through the same thing....just take your time if you can :P

[Kristen07]

Hey y'all

I was able to find a break in writing and studying for finals, so I deicded to update this story. I really hope y'all enjoy :)

*Britt I love that pic in your signature! It's really pretty :) *

Renee felt mixed emotions after she hung up with Carmen. She was sad that this had happened to her, yet she was mad at Drew. Instead of helping Carmen and making the situation a little bit easier, he had to hit Paul. Mind you, it was what Paul deserved, but still. Renee didn’t know Drew that well, but it still didn’t seem like something he would do. The last time Carmen had been faced with Paul, Drew had protected her. It didn’t make any sense to her.

Her phone snapped her out of her thoughts.

“Hello?�

“Hey Serena� It was Nick. The sound of his voice made her smile.

“Hey Nick, what’s up?�

“Not much, just sitting in another hotel room after yet another show. You?�

“Nothing. Have you talked to your brother?�

“Not since I left your apartment. Why?�

“Because an incident occurred between him, Carm and Paul when they returned to her apartment tonight�

Nick seemed to tense up. “What happened?�

Renee recounted what she knew. He was silent for a moment after she finished.

“That’s not my brother. He would not do that�

“I’m just telling you what Carm told me,� Renee said.

Nick thought for a moment. “Well, he hates Paul with a p[arse]ion, I know that. But last night he kept her away from him�

“That was more because Jessica was there and he was preventing Carmen from hitting her and cause a fighting outbreak. It seems hypocritical to me though. One night you’re protecting her and the next you’re beating him up and accidentally hitting her� She explained.

“Yeah, it’s more like him to protect Carmen. I really couldn’t tell you why he hates Paul so much�

“Probably because he’s there and threatening their relationship, like She-Who-Must-Not-Be Named.� Renee thought bitterly. “I don’t know either. I told her I would ask you what was bothering him�

“I’ll talk to him, don’t worry�

Then they moved on to other subjects, such as wedding plans and what kind of house they wanted to move into. Renee had to admit; it felt good to talk about the future for once. For that time, the present seemed to fade away as they imagined their future together. The wedding was the beginning of that and it was going to take place in May, whether anyone liked it or not.

Renee turned on her bed. It was after 1:00 a.m.! “Oh gosh, it’s after one! We have been talking for a long time!�

“Time melts away when you have a lot to talk about� Nick told her.

“I guess so. This is what, the second time we’ve talked on the phone today?�

“And don’t forget we were together in your apartment this morning�

“That too. It’s all good, though. We don’t mind doing that�

“Not at all. Do you have to work tomorrow?� Nick asked.

“Unfortunately, Mr. Famous. I’m going to be so tired tomorrow.�

Nick laughed. “You think you’ll be tired? Try having 4 or less hours of sleep a night!�

“I probably won’t function very well!� Renee laughed as well. “Well, we both need sleep so I’ll go now�

“Ok. Love you, babe�

“Love you more, hun� Renee hung up, smiling.

~The next morning~

Renee was tired but in a good mood. Those two things usually weren’t [arse]ociated with each other, but she felt that way. She was thinking about her conversation with Nick last night. It had gone so well. They talked about their future… together. It showed that they were going to make it through no matter what anyone said or did. And for the first time recently, Jessica had not come up. That was the best feeling in the world. It reminded her of how things used to be. And Hopefully things would stay that way.

Her cell phone took her out of her daydreaming.

“Hello?�

“Hey sis! What are you doing?� It was Kayleigh.

“I’m at work�

“Oh. Did I interrupt anything?� She asked.

Renée shook her head. “I wouldn’t have answered the phone if I was doing something important. Today is a slow day thankfully. Because I’m really tired but in a good mood�

Kayleigh chuckled. “How can that happen?� Usually those things don’t mix!�

“I know. I stayed up taking to Nick till 1�

“Really? What did you two talk about?�

“The future, basically. And you know the best thing?�

“What?�

“Jessica didn’t come up. And we didn’t fight� Renee was smiling.
“It’s been awhile. It reminded me of the way things used to be and why I accepted his proposal in the first place. I forgot about all the drama and stuff�

“That’s great. Hey, Brad’s in town and I tagged along. Do you think you could get out of work?�

Brad was Kayleigh’s boyfriend. “No. I took a long break when I went with Nick to see Rent in New York, so I don’t think I’ll take many days off for a while. How about I meet you two for dinner?�

“Sure, brad wouldn’t mind that. There’s this Chinese place we wanted to try, is that ok with you?�

“Kay, you know I don’t like Chinese. But to be adventurous, I’ll try it�

“Yeah, I know. I just wanted to make sure you were ok with that� Kayleigh gave her directions and the two women said goodbye.

The rest of the day p[arse]ed without anything else happening. Renee headed straight to Fusion after she was off from work. Unfortunately she was stuck in Los Angeles traffic at rush hour. If there was one thing she hated about living in LA, the traffic would be it. She had told her sister she would be there at 7:15, but that was not to be the case tonight. She called her and she said it would be ok if Renee was late.

After a frustrating hour and a half, she finally got there at 7:50.
“You look a little frazzled, sis� Kayleigh commented.
“Traffic, it’s horrendous.� She hugged her. “Hey Brad�
“Long time, no see Renee� They hugged. “Didn’t bring Nick this time?�
“Nope, he’s on tour right now�
The trio had a really enjoyable conversation for a while, till Kayleigh asked Renee “Have you asked Carmen to be a bridesmaid in your wedding yet?�
Renee shook her head. “No, why?�
“Girl, how long have you bee talking to her again for?�
“A couple months. We’ve had a lot of other things to worry about so I really haven’t had a chance to ask her� She paused “Don’t worry, you’ll still be my maid of honor�
Kayleigh smiled. “Oh, ok. I was hoping so. No offence to her, but I was hoping to keep my job since you asked me in the beginning�
“Yeah, but that doesn’t mean she won’t be in it.� She paused “So how about you two? When are you getting married?�
Kayleigh and Brad had been dating for three years and had become really close. “We’re taking it slow right now� Brad took Kayleigh’s hand, smiling.
“That’s cool. I was just wondering. I still don’t know id I’m going to get to my own wedding�
“You’re still worrying about Nick and Jess?� Kayleigh looked disapproving.
“Yes. It’s not as much as it was, just a lingering thought that refuses to go away� Renee sighed. “I really can’t help it. It’s in my nature�
“Did you tell Nick about Bryan�
Renee nodded, taking a sip of her sweet tea. “Last night I did. We had gotten into a fight the night before. Then the next night Carmen made me got to a party with her where Nick and Jessica were supposed to be. Some drama happened there and then he came back to my apartment with me and we talked it out. He said he understood better why I felt the way I did�
“What kind of dram, if you don’t mind reliving it for us?� Brad asked.
Renee recounted the whole night for them.
“Wow, you really held your ground against Jessica� Kayleigh said.
“Oh trust me, part of me wanted to cry and the other wanted to punch her in the face. I could care less what she thinks about me. I really hate her.�
“Carmen almost did that for you� Brad said.
“Yeah, but I’m glad Drew held her back. It would have been blown out of proportion in the media and that’s the last thing any of us wants or needs right now�
“Since everyone is hurting in some way all ready�
Renee nodded “Exactly Brad�
Kayleigh touched her sister’s hand. “It’ll work out for the best, Serena. I know it will. Keep your head up�
Renee wished she could have that positive attitude. Yet she smiled. “I’m trying. I can only wait and hope that this storm will p[arse]�

[Biondo Sorto]

Thanks Kris, I liked it too :P
Nice add.....hmm, what could be wrong with Drew? lol :D
I'll add soon, maybe tonight maybe tomorrow....I should add right now before I forget what I may write, lol

[Biondo Sorto]

Decided to add early, hope you enjoy :P

After Carmen hung up the phone with Renee, she immediately called the cops. After about two hours of trying to get everything resolved, she went to bed hoping that the next day would bring her more joys. But she couldn’t go to sleep. She kept on thinking about Drew and why he had did what had occurred only hours earlier. She knew her Drew, and he wasn’t the pigheaded brawn she knew Paul to be. Instead, he was a gentle character who wouldn’t want to cause a fight. It seemed odd to her. What was wrong with him? And if there was something wrong, why wasn’t he telling her? By the time she had drifted off to sleep, her alarm woke her up. She sighed as she turned it off and buried herself in her pillow. She was about to drift off again when her phone rang.
“Hello?� she mumbled, picking up the phone hoping it wasn’t Drew. She wouldn’t be able to handle it if it was.
“Carm, is that you?�
“Wait….who†™s this?â€�
“Who do you think?�
Carmen thought it over and smiled.
“Big browder.�
“Only you. So I finally came back to the states and what is this I hear about you going to fight Jessica Simpson? It’s the first thing I saw in the paper when I picked it up.�
Carmen groaned.
“That’s one long story I don’t think even you want to hear about.�
“Try me?�
Carmen sighed and informed him about what had been going on so far. Pablo sighed and said,
“I don’t believe this. How many times have I told you about getting involved with other people’s problems?�
“Lots.�
“And furthermore, you and this Drew character got into a fight. I haven’t met the guy but I already got a bad vibe about him.�
“Pablo…..â€à ‚Â� Carmen sighed.
“Listen, I thought Paul was a good guy and he turned out being a [friend]. Who can say that this Drew character ain’t the same?�
“Fine.� Carmen said, and then looked over at the time.
“Listen, I need to get ready.�
“Wait, wait, wait. You’re not getting off that easily. I called to let you know I’m coming into town tomorrow. To see this play that everyone’s been raving about.�
Carmen smiled and nodded.
“I’ll be sure the place will look comfy for you though…..�
She drifted off as she walked into the living room.
“It won’t be easy.�
“Why not?�
“Let’s just say that the fight Paul and Drew had happened to be in my house…..�
“Oh gosh Carmen. What more can a girl your age get into?�
“Don’t ask. Gotta go though, practice awaits.�
“Fine with me. Talk to you later sis.�
“My Pablo.� I said, hanging up the phone. I shook my head and walked back to my room. Today’s practice would defiantly be eventful…….very eventful.

Drew sighed as he opened the door to his hotel room. He didn’t know what had got into him a couple of hours ago. He didn’t even remember why he had done it. He knew that Paul had pushed him to that edge not a lot of people could do. It surprised him that it got to him that much though. And then there was Carmen, he’s Carmen who’s always been strong and brave. When he looked at her she saw fear behind her eyes, and that scared him. He didn’t want her to see that side of him, not like that. He dropped his jacket on the bed and laid back thinking. Then he sat up and threw his cap against the wall. In the process of leaving her house, he had forgotten to bring his suitcase.
“Well, that’s just great.� He sighed, falling back onto the bed. In the middle of his contemplation he had fell asleep and the next thing he knew he was waking up to his cell phone ringing. He looked at the time….6:00. Who the hell would be calling him at six in the morning?
“Hello?� he muttered, stretching a bit.
“Listen Drew I don’t know what happened last night but I want to know. Now.�
Drew sighed.
“Nick?�
“Yep.�
“Did Carmen tell you?�
“Renee did now talk.�
Drew sighed as he started to go back to all the events that had happened the night before. When he was done Nick was silent.
“That’s not you Drew. And I should know, I’ve been around you all of my life.�
“I know its not. I just…….�
“What? Why the hell would you start a fight in the apartment. Especially when it’s about to possibly burn down.�
Drew sighed and shook his head. He still didn’t know why he had done it.
“I don’t know.� He sighed after awhile.
“You don’t know?�
“It’s just that….Paul, he was pissing me off. Like really pissing me off. And it was annoying me how he was pushing Carmen and disrespecting her and everything. So I guess when he lit the pillow on fire, something in me just snapped. I knew I was thinking it, but I didn’t think I would actually go through with it.�
Nick sighed.
“What?�
“I don’t know what to say? This is something I would never expect you to do, especially when you stopped Carmen from doing the same thing two nights ago.�
“Oh yeah.� Drew smirked sarcastically.
“She probably thinks I’m the biggest hypocrite there is out there.�
“I don’t know Drew but if you don’t want to lose her, I’d talk to her today or do something special or something. She was crying when she called Renee. I don’t know how she’s doing now.�
He sighed even more.
“Well, I would have to talk to her regardless. I left my suitcase over there, so I’m going to work with the same thing on.�
“Stinky and scum. Man I would hate to be you.�
“thanks.� He said sarcastically, then added,
“By the way, I plan on taking a shower.�
“Right. I gotta go, my plane leaves in a hour.�
“All right. Bye.�
“bye.�

[Kristen07]

Oh excellent :P I can't wait to see what happens between Carmen and Drew at pracitce! :)

[Kristen07]

Hey y'all

I think this story will have to be put on hold for awhile. :( I am totally stuck on what to do on my next add and I don't think Britt's going to be able to get on for awhile. I'm really sorry, but it's what we have to do. :( Hopefully it won't be too long though.

[StargateGirl]

:( Thanks for letting us know.

[Kristen07]

Let me rephrase that... she'll only be able to add on weekends but if not it's because when not swamped with homework or other stuff. Still, I don't know when my next add will be because I am totally stuck.

[Biondo Sorto]

Hopefully we'll be able to add WITHin 2 weeks.....we all got this writers block going on, lol :P

[Kristen07]

Moving on up.... hopefully this will be updated this weekend.

[Biondo Sorto]

It will be updated soon!!!

[Kristen07]

Ok, this story will be updated this week as well. I just can't do it till Anytime is done. I plan to do that tomorrow, so look for an update on this this week :)

[Kristen07]

Hey y'all, guess what? i have an actuall story update! Yay, hope you enjoy :)

It was 6:30 in the morning. Nick was staying awake only on a very strong espresso. Thankfully he had a couple hour-long flight ahead of him so he could get some energy. Today was going to be a long day. The first flight was to Kansas City so for work and promotion. Then, since he had the night off, he was going to surprise Renee and fly out to see her.
He got to his seat and settled in. As soon as the plane took off, he fell asleep.

Next thing he knew, the plane had landed in Kansas City. It was 8 a.m. Nick felt a little more refreshed to face the day. Hopefully things would go exactly as he had planned because it could mess things up if it didn’t.
The day seemed to drag on and on. Nick did the interviews and all the other necessary stuff. But he was really thinking about his night with Renee. If things went right, he would arrive in LA at 3. Then he would go to the store and buy things for dinner. Next he would go to Renee’s apartment while she was at work (he had a key), make dinner and set everything up. By the time Renee would get home at 6:30, everything would be ready.
Thankfully, he got to the airport on time and arrived in L.A. right on schedule.

When he got there, he got his stuff and went to his car. Next he went to the store to get stuff for dinner and a few extra things. By the time he got to Renee’s apartment, it was 4:30. Which he meant he had two hours to get himself, dinner and everything else ready.
He decided to just go ahead and take his shower now and while dinner was cooking and he didn’t have to watch it, he could change into nice clothes and fix his hair a bit.

After his shower, he threw on the clothes that he had been wearing. He then arranged the romantic extras around Renee’s bedroom and bathroom, including the rose petals and candles. But he didn’t light the candles just yet; that would come after he finished cooking dinner and had everything else ready.
He started to cook dinner. He wasn’t too much of a cook, but some of the stuff he made was pretty good. Hopefully Renee would recognize the effort he put into this.

While it was in the oven, he went and changed into a white dress shirt and slacks. It wasn’t too dressed up but not too casual. As he finished his hair, nerves began to rise. What if Renee got mad that he went on her property without her permission? But she had given him a key to it, so that meant she trusted him in her apartment. What she didn’t like anything he’d put into this? “Oh calm down, Lachey, she’ll love it. You know she will. It’ll be even better since it was an unexpected surprise� He told himself.

A few minutes later, he put everything in serving bowls. After that he set the table. It was perfect size for a candlelit dinner for two. After turning the lights off, he gingerly lit the two candles on the table and then went back to her room and bathroom to light some of the candles back there. As he was in that process, he heard the front door open. “Perfect timing, Serena� Nick thought, smiling.
He walked back into the living room. Renee was so astounded at the sight before her that she didn’t notice him behind her. He wrapped his arms around her, and kissed her cheek.
“Nick…� She whispered. “What are doing here?�
“I had another night off so I thought I’d surprise you,� He said smiling.
“And surprise you did� She turned towards him and their lips met.
After they broke away, he asked her “So, you want to sit down to dinner?�
“Sure, everything looks delicious.� They sat down at the table.
“I surprised you, didn’t I?�
She nodded. “You have no idea how much. But I’m glad you chose this night to do it�
“Why do you say that? Is something wrong?� He was concerned.
“I just had a really bad day at work. I just rather forget about it right now.�
“Oh, ok.�
“How long are you here for?� She asked.
“Just till tomorrow morning. I have to leave here at 4, since my flight is a 6. But let’s not worry about that right now and enjoy the night�
Renee took a bite of the chicken marsala. “Mmm…. This is really good. Did you make this yourself?�
“Yes, I did. I wasn’t so sure about how it was going to turn out. I was worried about you not liking it�
She smiled. “Don’t worry, even if it was horrible, I would have appreciated the thought behind it�
That made Nick’s nerves relax a bit. “Good�
They talked and ate through a delicious dinner.
“So Mr. Lachey, do you have any other surprises up your sleeve tonight?� Renee asked him with a sexy smile.
“Maybe� He said, grinning. He took her hand and led her to the bedroom.

The room was covered in rose petals and candles all around gave the room a very romantic glow. Renee again was shocked at the sight before her. “Nicholas, your romantic side never ceases to amaze me�
He grinned. “It’s easy when it comes to you. But I have something else to show you first�
“Ok� They went into Renee’s master bathroom. Nick had also had some candles and rose petals surrounded the medium sized tub. “Wow, really nice. Let’s put some bubbles in it and get in together.� She suggested.
“That’s exactly what I was going to suggest� He said.

A few minutes later, their clothes were stripped off and the bath was ready. They got in together.
Renee kind of leaned back and Nick noticed her foot sticking out of the water. He started to give her a foot m[arse]age.
They stayed like that for a few minutes. The look in her eyes started to look distant. That meant Renee was definitely thinking about something else. Nick hoped it wasn’t a certain ex.
“What’s wrong, babe?� He asked.
“Nothing.� She told him.
“Are you sure? You look kind of distant�
She nodded. “Everything is going so perfect for us right now. Let’s not ruin it with a disagreement.�
“Ok� He took her in his arms. “I love you, Serena�
“I love you too, Nick�

They stayed in there for a little while longer. Afterwards, they dried each other off.
“Let’s not even bother with putting clothes on again. We’re already undressed, let’s just go straight to the bed� Nick whispered in Renee’s ear.
She giggled, “You’re on�
So they headed over to the bed for a wonderful night of making love

[Biondo Sorto]

Yay!!! An update!! I'm done with my 5 week so I can add sooner!! :P

[Biondo Sorto]

I am sooo drawing a blank for this story.....need an inspiration

[Kristen07]

I'll try to come up with something for you if you want me too....

[Biondo Sorto]

I'm so sorry Kris.....finally got time to adjust to school again and want to add to this, just don't know what to start with. :P

[Biondo Sorto]

I think this is uber short but its a post....Kris, tell me if you want me to add more!!! :P

Carmen walked unto set like nothing had happened the night before. She spotted Drew talking to one of the cast members and made a quick dive for the breakfast table.
"Hey Carmen, how ya doing?" one of the crew members, Pete, asked as he poured himself a cup of coffee. He held up the pot and she nodded.
"All right, I've had better days." she sighed as she looked toward Drew.
"You and your boy toy having relationship problems."
"My boy toy?"
"Come on now, everyone knows that you and Lachey are in a pretty tight relationship."
"Tight relationship?"
"You guys only make it obvious."
She sighed and nodded.
"I guess we do."
"Now what happened?"
"Nothing."
"Nothing?"
"Uh huh."
"Well that package of nothing is walking over here."
Carmen groaned and Pete laughed.
"Talk to you later Carmen."
She nodded as he turned and left. By this time Drew had reached the table, and her.
“Hey Carmen.�
“Hey Drew.�
There was silence and Carmen started pouring various things into her small cup fo coffee.
“I was wondering if you still had my clothes.�
“Huh?� she asked a bit lost. Then she slowly nodded. She remembered she had placed Drew suitcases by the door…along with the rest of the stuff that had belonged to him.
“Yeah, its by my door.�
“Think I can come over afterwards and get it. I really need some clothes.�
“Sure. Can’t allow you to be seen in those two things.�
He smiled, but she only looked down at the coffee she was stirring.
“Could we talk afterwards too?� he asked softly. She shrugged.
“Whatever you want Drew.�

Practice went by smoothly other than that. Drew continuously tried to make easy conversation with Carmen but she wasn’t having it. He knew he was in a lot of trouble. After practice they hailed a taxi back to her place. Carmen sighed as she opened the door to her apartment, looking around at the place. It looked a bit better than it did last night…the only thing missing was her gl[arse] table. Drew noticed this and sighed.
“Sorry about your table.�
“Its fine.� She said, trying to push it off.
“No…Iâ€℠¢ll buy you a knew one.â€Â�
“Drew, you don’t have too.�
“But I want too.�
Carmen looked at him and sighed.
“That table was given to me by my mom.�
“Oh….� He was silent and Carmen shook her head.
“Drew…Iâ€â⠀žÂ¢ve been thinking.â€ÂÂ�
Drew sighed. He saw it coming. He was just waiting for it. He saw all the stuff he had given her along with her clothes. It was obvious this was one screw up he couldn’t charm his way out of.
“Yeah.�
“We should….listen, I’m sorry.�
“Why are you apologizing?� he asked a bit confused.
“I over-reacted. You were only try to protect.�
“But I could have handled it in a different way.�
“You could have, maybe. I was so worried about a table and my pillow that I didn’t realize that one of you guys could have seriously gotten hurt. I should feel happy over the fact that you considered to fight for me.�
He smiled at her.
“this doesn’t mean were through then?�
She shook her head no.
“Not if you don’t want it too.�
He smiled and gave her a tight hug.
“Of course.�
She hugged him back and mumbled.
“Baby, what were you thinking though?�
Drew shrugged.
“I don’t even know.�
Carmen laughed, then said in a more serious tone,
“My brothers coming to visit me tomorrow. He’s staying out here one…two weeks. He wants to meet you.�
Drew groaned, making Carmen laugh.
“Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.�
“Oh sure.�
“You will…of fu…�
“What?�
“I forgot I told him about what happened.�
Drew groaned even louder.
“Let god be with me.�
Carmen could only laugh again.

[Kristen07]

I like a lot! You can if you want... I want to see how Drew and Pablo get along!

[Biondo Sorto]

All right..I'll add...trying to think of all the things we can do...and how to tie Renee and nick in it

[Kristen07]

It's getting close to a year since we started writing this, Brit. :)

[britt]

I just read the whole thing its great so far & I cant wait to see what happens next....

[Luv_98_Degrees]

Awww..Kris & Britt, what an awesomeee story!!!! You guys NEED to finish it!!!! Omg, it is sooo good!!!! Pleasee add, pleasee? :Cry:

[Biondo Sorto]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(*~writer_wannabe~* @ 11/19/05, 10:48pm) 31861</div>
It's getting close to a year since we started writing this, Brit. :)
[/b]
Realize that...i think I'm gonna add right now....after i catch up lol
so sorry

[Luv_98_Degrees]

can't wait!! :D excited*

[britt]

Can't wait! :D *excited*

[Biondo Sorto]

Finally....and add from me!!

Carmen smiled at her brother as he walked out the airport. She stood by her car, holding a dozen roses.
“Missed you a lot sis.�
He looked toward the roses and raised a brow.
“For me?�
“No for the king of France. Of course there for you! I heard about your promotion….from dad.� She said the last part half-heartedly, and then smiled at him.
“I’m sorry I didn’t hear any sooner.�
“It’s fine.�
Pablo looked down at his younger sister and smiled. She turned out to be a gem, but he was worried with her romantic situation. She didn’t exactly have the best experiences when it came to men.
“So you can’t give me a hug, eh?�
Carmen smiled as she gave her brother a hug. It had been a long time since they actually had the time to be together. She started heading toward the airport garage and Pablo rose a brow.
“Its not like you to drive your car in New York. Unless your going to Jersey or something that’s not a Carmen-like thing.�
Carmen rose a brow and smiled at him.
“We need to talk. I knew a ride from here to my apartment would give us some time.�
“Pablo gave her an interesting look.�
“I see.�
They had reached the car and she popped the trunk so he could put his stuff in it. When he was done he got into the p[arse]enger side and looked toward her.
“So what is it that we so need to talk about.�
Carmen sighed as she put her key into the ignition. It would indeed be a long car ride.

Drew nervously fiddled with his rose as he stood outside Carmen’s dressing room door. It had been two days since they had made-up and he had seen her….two long painful days. Not only did her absence get to her…but she also was with her brother. God could only know what the man thought of him. And on top of that….they were going to go out tonight, for dinner. Carmen’s door opened and she walked out wearing a short red dress and a black sweater. She looked toward Drew and smiled.
“Wow you look….you look wonderful.�
Drew smiled, giving her a loop-sided grin and handed her the rose. Carmen took it thankfully and smiled at him.
“And you,� she looked him up and down.
“You look very nice indeed.�
He offered her arm and she took it.
“Wonder what brought on this change.�
He gave her a glance and she laughed.
“It couldn’t be my dear brother.�
“The man probably hates me as it is. And now he invites us to dinner.�
“He wants to get to know you. He’s agreed he wouldn’t judge you until dinner was over.�
“Splendid.�
Drew said sarcastically. Carmen laughed as she neared her brother, waiting outside for them.
“Pablo, we hope we haven’t kept you waiting. You know how I am about my hair.�
Drew looked as the tall man turned around and smiled at his younger sister. He was about Nick’s height…if not a couple of inches taller. He had Carmen’s green eyes with the hazel speckles but possessed other features that Carmen didn’t have. He looked strong and Drew knew if they ever got into a fight who would be the winner. The one thing he noticed the most was the way he was looking down at his younger sister. It was with love and devotion; Drew knew this dinner would mean a lot for Carmen and his future.
“Pablo, I want you to meet my boyfriend Drew. Drew, Pablo.�
Pablo looked at the man toward the man for the first time and gave him a quick glance up and down. He quickly hid his frown and gave a small smile.
“Hello Pablo. If you haven’t guessed, I’m her older brother.�
“She told me as much.�
Pablo’s grip on their handshake was strong and Drew took it as a warning. Carmen sighed but quickly said in a lighter tone,
“Well, aren’t you treating me to dinner for my great performance.�
“And weren’t you treating me to dessert for my outstanding promotion.�
Carmen narrowed her eyes at her brother, and then laughed.
“Fine, were at truce.� She said, and then hailed a cab. Pablo looked toward Drew again and sighed. He was glad he had made that promise to Carmen about not [arse]uming from their first meeting. He wasn’t sure if he would kill the man or give him some words and then kill him.

Carmen looked from her brother to Drew. So far the dinner had been mutual…..completely awkward but mutual. No curses had been made, just some looks from Pablo. She could see his restraint and Drew’s nervousness and it was starting to annoy her. Finally, after they had ordered dessert she asked,
“I can’t stand this anymore. Pablo, say what you need to.�
Both men looked toward her in confusion and she sighed.
“Don’t act stupid. I could tell you want to give Drew the cursing of his life Pablo. And Drew, if you tear up another napkin I’m going to snap. Now talk.�
She sat back in her chair and looked at them. Pablo gave an amused look and finally said.
“Fine, if that’s the way you’ll have it.�
He turned toward Drew and said,
“I think you’re an incompetent fool that is not good enough for my sister and if we weren’t in public I kick your puny [arse].�
He turned toward Carmen and smiled.
“Happy.�
“I know that’s only half of what you want to say but its fine. Drew?�
Drew sighed and turned toward Pablo.
“I’m sorry that I screwed up your sister’s life but has it occurred to you that I didn’t do it for my own, god forbid, horrible intentions.�
“No?� Pablo raised a brow,
“Please, tell me.�
Drew began to explain his situation and Carmen sat back and watched it all unravel. When he was done Pablo smiled.
“I suppose I can’t completely fault you. It was dumb, I’ll give you that, but I can relate to your situation.�
“So do you both have a mutual understanding? Can I be with Drew with your blessing?�
Pablo turned toward his younger sister and smiled.
“Only because you’re so demanding.�
“Damn right I am. Not like it mattered, I would be with Drew regardless of what you think.�
“I know, that’s the sad thing about it.�
Pablo sighed. Carmen threw her bun at his head and he retaliated but throwing back what was left of his water. Drew laughed as he watched the two interact. He knew that he defiantly would enjoy those two in his family. Carmen was just happy that everything went her way….and hoped to call Renee about it later.

[Kristen07]

Hmm... that went well. I still have a feeling Pablo doubts Drew a little. Excellent add though, definitely worth waiting for.

[Luv_98_Degrees]

aww....great add!!!! Please add more soon!!!!!!! :D :D

[Kristen07]

Well y'all, i am going to start writing the add to this this weekend. It might take awhile because this add is very important to the story and i want it to reach as close to perfection as possbile. So look for it sometime soon :)

[Luv_98_Degrees]

ooohh, I can't wait!!!!!! Keep up the good work!!!! :D :D

[Biondo Sorto]

Kris it took me a year to add....I'm sure it won't take you that long to post like it did me, lol :P :D

[Luv_98_Degrees]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(LadyLove06 @ 1/8/06, 07:28pm) 33955</div>
Kris it took me a year to add....I'm sure it won't take you that long to post like it did me, lol :P :D
[/b]

lol. :rofl: did it really take you a year?!

[Kristen07]

Not exactly... but it was close to five months, lol

[Kristen07]

Hey y'all. Here is my next add. This is intense and climatic. Y'all might hate me after reading it though. :P Brit helped me a little with this too, so kudos to her. Enjoy and PLEASE leave feedback! this add will make you want to. :)

Renee got in her apartment after another terrible and long day at work. Co-workers were getting on her nerves because they teased her for her situation with Nick. They mocked her with tabloid reports of Nick and Jessica. She’d almost screamed at one of them for a comment they made. If she saw one more tabloid cover of Nick supposedly “cheating� on her, she would scream. It didn’t help that she didn’t trust Jessica in the first place and having her and Nick fight about it more than necessary. She didn’t need everyone shoving those covers in her face. It was her ultimate nightmare, but Renee knew that if she didn’t watch her back… it just might come true. She’d thought a lot about what would happen if one day her attitude pushed Nick away for good. She knew that it would inflict wounds on the heart deeper than what Bryan did. She couldn’t afford to loose him; he meant the world to her. Sure, she hadn’t shown him that lately, but it was the truth. If Nick left, she would cry herself to sleep and never come out her apartment again. The feeling of knowing that she’d pushed away her soulmate with a simple mistrust would haunt her forever. She’d never love another man again because she wouldn’t want to put them through what she was putting Nick through right now. “Why are you so freakin cynical about everything?� she scolded herself. “Nick is still yours and he still will be if you’re careful and let the storm p[arse]�
“Dammit, why do I do this so much?� Renee thought, sighing. “I need to get my mind off it�

The night p[arse]ed on without notability. She talked to a couple friends on the phone, put some appointments in order, and washed herself up in the shower. After she had gotten herself comfortable in her pajamas, she decided to call Nick. They hadn’t talked in two days and she missed him.

She carefully dialed his number into her cell phone. He picked up after five rings.

“Hello?� He sounded a little tired.

“Hey hun. Did I call at a bad time?� she inquired.

“No, why?�

“I don’t know, you just sounded a little gruff there.�

“It’s fine, I’m just tired, that’s all. How was your day?�

“It was kind of bad�

“Do you want to talk about it?� He asked.

Renée knew that if she told him about it, they would be destined vfor a fight. “Not really.�

They talked in normal conversation for a little while. When he was talking about what had happened in tour that day, Jessica’s name came up.

Renee’s muscles tensed up and just the mention of her name. “Yeah, well….�

“You’re getting tense� Nick stated.

“Who said I was getting tense?� Renee asked.

“The way you just talked. Honestly, Renee, do I have to convince you again?�

“You didn’t have to word it that way� She told him timidly.

Nick sighed. “You've been making a habit of it lately, so I don’t see why not�

Those words stung at Renee’s heart “"Excuse me, Nicholas Scott, but unlike you most of us haven't had the perfect life."

She had ignited a fire in him. “Who says I’ve had the “PERFECT LIFE�? Do you think I’ve liked Jessica putting me through hell like this? Huh?�

“No, but you make such a big damn deal out of everything� Renée said crossly.

“I don’t think so, Renee Serena. I think you’re the one making the big [freak]ing deal. Remember back when this whole thing started and I told you that you have absolutely nothing to worry about?�

“You aren’t going to lose me, babe. I would never even consider for a second going back to her. The love we have is so powerful and it’s true, so we’ll make it through this, ok?� “Yes�

“I told you that because I meant it from the bottom of my heart. Still, you kept on being really damn insecure about it and I HAD TO REMIND YOU FIVE MILLION TIMES�

That was a tad bit of a exaggeration. “I told you why I acted that way! I spilled my guts out to you about that!� Renee exclaimed.

“STILL, you can get over heartache. It can’t control every aspect of your new relationship. I think you have done that

“Nicholas Scott… it’s not true. YOU KNOW IT’S NOT!�

“DON’T BS ME, RENEE. I DON’T WANT TO BE ENGAGED TO A WOMAN THAT I HAVE THEM THAT I LOVE THEM EVERY FIVE MINUTES!�

Tears started to sting to Renee’s eyes. She had known Nick loved her all along, she just didn’t trust Jessica. She never had. “I WOULDN�T EXACTLY SAY THAT MUCH, NICHOLAS.�

“Goddammit Renee, I thought you loved me. But in order to love me, you have to trust me. And you don’t�

“You….� Renee started to sputter out, tears

“Don’t give me that bull[crap], you know it is.� Nick sighed. “You know what; I can’t deal with you anymore, [nice person]. I can’t deal with ALL THIS FIGHTING and underlying mistrust. I HATE you and don’t want to marry you.�

“Nick… I’m sorry� Renee felt like a lost and wounded puppy.

RING…. The dial tone rung loudly in her ear. “I really am.� She whispered, hanging up. “I can’t believe it’s over.� Tears spilled down her face. “Why did I doubt him so much when I know he loves me? This fear has cost the man I love most. Some psychologist I make. I can fix everyone else’s problems, but mine get worse with every step I make� She flopped on her bed. She proceeded to cry herself to sleep, wanting to drown in her own tears.

[Biondo Sorto]

And Nick wonders why I moved on to Orlando.....
Syke, still love the man

[Luv_98_Degrees]

:clapping:
aww..BRILLIANT add!!!! Me loves it!!!!
Great job & keep up the good work!!
:heart: :D :heart:

[Biondo Sorto]

oh, a post that only took a couple of hours to put up, thats a record, lol. Enjoy :

Carmen had spent two whole days with men who were complete opposite each other. Drew and Pablo were trying to make it work, but after a while Pablo gave up.
“Me and him, we grew up in two different environments.� Pablo said one night after Drew had left. Carmen sighed as she set the tofu and chicken teriyaki dish on the table.
“What do you mean two different environments. We went to the same camp.�
“Yeah but, Carm, our dad was the owner of big-time business company. We were used to getting things.�
“Yet we were sent to public schools, couldn’t go out on the weekends, and had limited allowances like the rest of the world.� Carmen said sarcastically.
“Yeah, but you have to understand this.� Pablo sat the soft noodles on the table and looked toward his sister.
“We had servants. We had our room. We were the first to get everything. We never really had to work for something we wanted outside our life, not until we hit college. Drew, he grew up in a middle-cl[arse] setting. He worked his butt of to get into that group. 89 Radians.�
“98 Degrees.� Carmen laughed.
“Whatever. Were different.�
“You still don’t trust him. You have all types of friends, different tones, religions, poverty wise, and yet you can’t bond with a man from Cincinnati.�
Pablo smiled at his younger sister.
“You are smart.�
“Yeah bird brain. Just…….Pablo, I really, really, really, REALLY like Drew. I…I can’t imagine going a day without him. Respect that.�
Pablo sighed and looked at his younger sister.
“You really like him, don’t ya.�
“No sh-“
“All right, all right. I’ll do that much. Just don’t let us have any more days together.�
“Done.� Carmen laughed as she started to eat her plate. The phone went off and Pablo looked toward Carmen.
“If that’s Drew, I’m not home.�
“Why would he want you?� Carmen said, rolling her eyes. She picked up the phone and asked,
“Hello?�
“Carmen, its drew.�
“Hey baby, what’s up?�
“Uhh, have you talked to Renee?�
“No me and Pablo just sat down to dinner. Why?�
“Uhh….well, you see. Her and Nick got into an argument. A heated argument.�
“So…. They always argue. It’s a weekly routine.�
“He broke off his engagement.�
“What? What the hell did your son of a……..�
“Nick, he’s just tired I guess. Tired of Renee’s insecurities, the tour, the tabloids, Jessica….�
Carmen sighed.
“I see. Was it necessary for a broken engagement though?�
“No….heâ€â⠀žÂ¢s still on the other line cussing me out. I’m trying to reason with him.â€ÂÂ�
“I’ll call Renee. And Drew lets spend some time together, tomorrow. I feel your dating my brother instead of me.�
“I planned on it anyway. Bye.�
“Bye.�
She hung up the phone and looked toward Pablo.
“Nick just dropped his engagement to Renee. I have to call her.�
“Hey, whatever. I planned on meeting with some friends anyways…� Pablo said getting up. Carmen rolled her eyes and sighed.
“As long as you don’t get laid in this house, whatever.�
I dialed Renee’s phone number and got her machine instead. She tried again and continued to get her machine. She sighed as she left her a message then decided to head in for the night.

The next day Drew met her at her house at eleven.
“Hey baby.� He smiled, handing her a bouquet of roses and giving her a kiss. She smiled underneath his lips and pulled away from him.
“I thought you forget about me.� she said, turning around to put the flowers in a vase.
“I was trying to kiss your brothers [arse], believe me.�
Carmen smiled and turned around.
“Speaking of Pablo….?� Drew asked, pointing toward some pantyhose. Carmen sighed as she picked it up.
“I told that boy not to bring his booty calls to my house. God, I’m gonna put snakes in his bed.�
Drew laughed and grabbed her by the waist.
“Lets just go out and have some fun.� He smiled.
“I can agree to that.� She laughed.

After that they decided to walk back to his apartment to talk about Nick and Renee’s relationship.
“So has Nick cooled down?�
“I don’t know. I explained my logic and he cussed me out some more.�
“Oh lord.�
“I hung up with him. There are just some things you can tolerate.�
“Yeah.�
They walked into the building and headed toward his elevator.
“What about Renee, how she taking it.�
“I’m guessing not so well. She hasn’t answered any of my calls.�
Drew sighed as he pushed his floor and looked toward her.
“I don’t know what to do, I want to help but at the same time...�
“you don’t want to pry. Yeah, I’ve pried too much as it is. But I’ve always taken a protectiveness to Renee. You know, she’s been like my big sister so I try to give back what she gives me.�
“Yeah, it’s a sticky situation.� He turned toward her and smiled.
“What?� she asked, giving him a weird look.
“Have I told you how beautiful you look today?�
“No.�
“Well, you look beautiful.�
Carmen laughed and wrapped her arms around him.
“Why Mr. Lachey, I do think your trying to get laid.�
Drew smiled as he kissed her.
“And if I am.�
“God, you know I’m a virgin.�
“ We could change that.�
“Andrew John!!�
“what?�
Carmen smiled as she slide her hand in his back pocket and got his key card.
“Catch me and maybe….�
“What?�
Carmen pushed him as the elevator door opened and ran down the hall. She ran to his room and started to open the door, only to see that Andrew was getting close. She quickly closed the door and started to laugh.
“Aw, come on Carmen.�
“You were tyring to seduce me?�
“What? Whats wrong with seducing someone that I-“
“That you what? I thought I told you, I’m waiting till marriage for that kind of fun.�
“Carmen, let me in. They might call hotel security on me.�
“You have an ID.�
“And what do I tell them about you?�
“We got into an argument.�
“Carmen!!!�
She laughed some more when she realized for the first time that she wasn’t the only one in the room. She simmered as she looked toward the woman, then asked,
“Lea?�
“What does Lea have to do with this?�
Carmen opened the door and Drew walked.
“No you’re really going to pay for that-“ he stopped short and looked at the direction she was looking at.
“Lea?� he asked confused.
“Hello Drew. Is this the girl that’s been all over the TV with you.�
Drew sighed and walked toward her.
“What are you doing-?�
“We need to talk.�
“About what?�
She lifted up a small box and showed it to him. Drew sighed and turned around to Carmen.
“You have to leave.�
“What?� Carmen asked, looking at him.
“You have to leave.�
“Your kicking me out?�
“I have to….I’ll call you.� Carmen looked at him as he turned to shut the door.
“Drew!� she said, stopping it.
“I have to talk to her….I promise I’ll call you.�
Carmen nodded as he bent down to kiss her and shut the door.
She headed toward the elevator and pulled out her cell phone to call Renee. As usual it went straight to her machine.
“DAMMIT RENEE!!! PICK UP THE [freak]ING PHONE!!�
She added in a softer tone,
“I want to know whats wrong.�
There was silence and she was going to hang up when she heard,
“Hello?�

[Kristen07]

Oooo... wonder what's going to happen between Drew and Lea *wink wink*. I like, great as always. Is it my turn again?

[Biondo Sorto]

yeah.........sowwy was inspired tonight

[Kristen07]

Eh, it's all good. I'll add again tomorrow or sometime this weekend.

[Luv_98_Degrees]

:shok: Oh WOW!! Keep adding please!! You guys are doing such a terrific job!! :D :D :D :D

[Kristen07]

Hopefully this story will be updated sometime toinght :)

[Kristen07]

Here's the next add. I'm sorry it's so short. I promise there's a longer one coming

“Renee Serena! I have been so worried about you!!�

Tears kept falling down Renee’s face. “You already know, don’t you?�

“Gee ya think? Nick never keeps anything from Drew and Drew doesn’t keep any secrets from me.�

“I figured as much�

“I really have been worrying about you, though. How are you doing?�

“Well, the fact that I have been adamantly ignoring your calls for the last few days might tell you something� Renee said sarcastically.

“I’ll take that as utterly devastated�

She sighed “That doesn’t even begin to describe it, honestly. I’m such an idiot, Carmen�

“No you’re not hun. Why do you say that?�

“He brought her name just in p[arse]ing and I already got so stiff I couldn’t talk. How could she have ruined me like this?�

“You let it get it the best of you. Honestly Ren, how many times did I tell you not to let that ***** do that?�

“Too many. I should have listened to you…Drew… Nick… everyone. I let it destroy the only relationship that I have felt so strongly for. I can’t believe I did this…. To myself and to him. I knew all along what he felt… oh my god… what have I done?� Renee knew she was being a drama queen, but she didn’t care. She needed to cry all her tears again to someone who cared enough who would listen.

“Renee, it’s not all your fault�

She knew Carmen was trying to make her feel better but it wasn’t working. “It is too. A man can patient with my kind of situation to a certain extent. But I pushed it to such a limit that I don’t think our bond can be fixed. I deserve for him to walk away and find someone so much better than me�

“Don’t beat yourself down so hard….�

“You weren’t in the fight, Carm. You didn’t hear all of the frustrations and screaming words.�

“Maybe he really didn’t mean it. He was just in such a pissed off mood at the time that he said it at the heat of the moment�

“I highly doubt it. We’ve had the same fight so many times that I think he’s tired of it. Tired of me being so damn insecure, how when everything seems to be going right, it falls apart yet again.�

“Uh..�

Renee cut her off again “I appreciate your efforts to make me feel better, Carm, but it’s not working.� She took a deep breath.

“I still think he’ll come back to you. Just give him a few days. He’ll realize what a greedy ***** ho Jessica is and what a diamond he has in you�

“I hope so. I still don’t think it’ll happen, but ok. So humor me with Drew and Pablo’s meeting. I need to get my mind off the pain�

Carmen launched into the story about the last few days.

“Well, I think he’ll come around. Drew’s so loveable, how can anyone have anything against him?�

“Pablo’s really protective of me, so no one’s really good enough for his little sister. I think they’ll come around eventually�

“I’m going to get off and not keep depressing you with my sob story.�

“Renee Serena, you are my best friend! You are not depressing me! Are you sure I can’t do anything to make you feel better?�

“I’m sure.� Renee said curtly.

[Forever_Lost]

Great add! :)

[britt]

I cant wait to see what happens, leaving us with with all kinds of suspisions lol (i guess thats what you could call it) Great as always though i luv it!! :D

[Luv_98_Degrees]

love the add, keep up the great work, Kris! :D

[Kristen07]

Here it is! this is kind of a "meanwhile" type add...it's happening while Ren and Carmen are talking. I think y'all like the end of this add and think that Jessica gets what she deserves! ;)

Nick sighed deeply. He had no idea what he was going to do. On the one hand, he was totally mad and frustrated at Renee for her paranoid attitude, and they had just gotten into the biggest fight of their relationship. But he was also wondering, if he really wanted to do it, if it would be worth it to get back with Jessica. She was the cause of the biggest heartache of his life. Or there was also the option that he could go on with his life as a single man and not go back to either of them. He wasn’t exactly sure if he wanted to do that either.
He needed to talk to some one about this, to help him sort this situation out. Drew had tried to reason with him a couple days ago when he was still in a fiery mood and had cussed out him of his mind. He decided on his dad, John Lachey. John was the type of guy who would sit down with you and listen to your problems and do his best to give you advice.

“Hello?�

“Hey Dad.� Nick said.

“Hey son. How are you?� It felt good to hear his dad’s calming voice.

“Confused. I need someone to talk to�

“Ok. What’s troubling you?� He asked.

“My situation with Renee and Jessica�

“Go on�

“Renee and I got into a really heated argument a few nights ago. Now I am seriously questioning whether we should marry or not�

“Why?�

“She…. has this thing that I’m going to leave her for Jessica. Which I didn’t want to do and told her so on many occasions. I don’t know if she fully believes me. She also has been in a similar situation before that has emotionally paralyzed her.�

“And why does part of you want to go back to Jessica? Is it just because you want to get out of your relationship with Renee?�

“Well… when I’m around her, I remember the good things around her, and there’s this part of me gets tempted to go back. I resist because I know what she did to me and I think about how much I love Renee. Now…. It seems like a considerable option,� Nick explained.

“But she hurt you. I remember, as well as you do, how much she hurt you. Do you really want to go through all that heartache again if she decides to mess it up a second time?�

Nick thought about this. He remembered quite well that night he found out she was cheating on him. He had been so heartbroken. He had spent a lot of nights crying because he didn’t know what he had done to make her think he wasn’t good enough. Finally, the divorce happened. But then Jessica attempted to get him back and had not succeeded. There was no way he wanted to go through that ordeal again. “No I don’t� He said softly.

“Then tell me, why did you fall in love with Renee?�

He thought back to the night they met. After that accidental run-in, Nick had gotten this vibe from her that she was different. “She was beautiful, smart, sweet, loyal, funny… someone I wanted to get to know better. As the dating went on, I started thinking that she could make a good wife.�

“Why did you propose?� John asked him.

“Because I thought she had all the qualities I wanted to have in a wife. I could see us having a great future together. And so I asked her�

“Do you still fell that way?�

Nick sighed. “That I needed to figure out�

“Nick, I’m not going to tell you what to do in this situation. But if you really love her, you would overlook those little qualities that can drive you off the wall sometimes and evaluate her as a person. Do you still see you two growing old together and having children together? Can you picture yourself spending everyday with her for the rest of your life? And if you chose Jessica, does she really want you back or is she just trying to steal you from Renee? Is it worth the risk of maybe getting yourself burned again? Finally, you could not choose either one of them and just search for someone completely new.�

John had a lot of good questions that he needed to ask himself. “I need to go. I need think about this�

“Ok. I hope you’re happy with whatever you chose�

“I hope so too. Thanks for talking to me. Talk to you later�

“Bye son�

Nick hung up. He had a lot of things to think about and decided on.
First he thought of Jessica. Did she seem genuine in her pursuits? Now that he really thought about it, he didn’t think she was. There were little clues that told him she wanted him back only to make herself look good in the media. She was causing the damage of the relationship with the woman who had been the love of his life for the last two years. Of course he would look stupid for taking her back, and he didn’t want that. He couldn’t bear the thought of putting his heart through the storm of emotions… again.
Now he had to ask himself the hardest questions. How much did he love Renee? He thought about the things he felt with her compared to when he was with Jessica. And the emotions were stronger and better with Renee. But would she show the paranoia that she had for the past months? She had said it was only because they were in that particular situation that she felt that way. She hadn’t shown even a trace of that behavior until Jessica came into the picture.
He thought back to the night he proposed to her.

~Flashback~

Nerves were filling through his body. This was the biggest moment of his life. He had to ask her now or he could never do it again.
“Renee, I know we haven’t been together too long. But it’s long enough to teach me a couple things. You’ve shown me there is love after a broken heart. Sometimes you think you found your soulmate and it doesn’t work out. That happened to me. But now I know I have it. You’re my true soulmate and I want your love for the rest of my life.� He pulled the ring out of his pocket “Renee Serena, will you marry me?�
Renee gasped. “Oh my goodness!� Her eyes were filling with tears. “Yes!�
Nick slipped the ring on her finger, got up, and hugged her close.

~End Flashback~

He had felt so happy that night and all he could see was his future with her. Did he still picture them like that? Nick thought really hard, and yes, he could them spending everyday together, having kids together, and just enjoying life together. Yet, the visions were blurred. “I need to talk to Renée one last time before I can justify the fact that we are getting married�
He stood up. He knew what he had to do now. He had to tell Jessica to get the hell out of his life, for good. He also had to go back to Los Angeles. He wasn’t sure what was going to happen to their engagement, but they had to talk at least to make sure that, if they decided to end it, it would be on good terms.

They had to go the airport for yet another plane ride to another tour stop. This tour had been wearing him down… having to put up a façade for the fans that everything was ok when really he was bursting with rage and frustration inside, dealing with Jessica, dealing with Renee’s insecurities and struggling to save their love. And he had had about enough. Thankfully the tour was over now.
He had been silent all the way to the airport. Jessica had been eyeing him curiously. He had been able avoid her stare temporarily. But he knew she was going to confront him soon.
They checked in their luggage and went through security without incident. Finally, Jessica broke the silence between them. “What’s gotten into you today?� She asked.
“Maybe you?� Nick thought bitterly. “What do you mean, what’s gotten into me? Nothing!�
“You’ve been ignoring me the whole day, which you haven’t been doing lately�
“Well… I have been trying to this whole [freak]ing tour but you haven’t let me� He groaned. “You don’t get the whole picture, do you?�
“Get what?� Jessica was looking a little irritated.
“What I have been trying to do ever since we got divorced. You [freak]ed up your chance for us to have a long lasting love and there is no way you’re getting it back.�
“What? You’ve been really interested through his whole tour when no one else was around.�
“Bull[crap], Jessica. I tried to push you away too many times to count. You barely got to my lips only once!�
“You know it’s not true, Nick!�
“Really? You’ve been misreading me. You really don’t want to go get back with me because of me anyway?�
Jessica gasped, looking wounded. “How dare you shoot such accusations?�
“You know it is. You just want me back because you want a good looking husband to wait on you hand and foot and follow you every [freak]ing second of the day!!!! I let you put me through hell once and I refuse to let you do it again�
Jessica’s eyes filled with rage, a couple spectators had gathered around by this time. “What you are going to do? Go back to your [nice person]ty, whiney, insecure fiancé?�
Nick’s blood boiled. How dare she say anything of that nature about Renee? “It’s none of your business, Jessica. I’ve already today you off once; what is it going to take you to see that I do not love you anymore and that there is no kind of future for us? If you remotely [freak]ing try to contact me again after this… there will be serious consequences. Get the [freak] out of my life because I don’t want to ruin it any more than you already have.� He turned on his heel and took off in the other direction. He could hear her call out his name, but the sound became fainter and fainter as he boarded the gate to his future… without her scheming ways.

[Raevengeance]

Great add, Kris

[Forever_Lost]

WOW!! Go Nick!
great add, Kris. :)

[britt]

Great add as usual Kris! Glad he finally told her what she deserved

[Biondo Sorto]

Aww, you added!!!! Its super good Kris, I'd told you it would be fine ;)
I guess its my turn to write, hmmm...................

[Biondo Sorto]

Carmen sighed as she walked into the large theater. She was not in the mood for rehearsal. She checked her sungl[arse]es again, rethinking the events of the last two days. Pablo had left (an important photo shoot) and her dad cancelled their plans because he had “business� to attend to. And on top of that, Drew hadn’t called her back. Carmen was tired of chasing him, if he really wanted her back, he would come back to her.

Drew sighed as he drank another cup of coffee, his 10th.
“Slow down on the caffeine man.� Angel laughed, grabbing a donut beside the coffee machine. Drew gave a soft chuckle and shook his head.
“I can’t sleep.�
“So you’ve been loading up on the caffeine?�
“It’s been helping me the last two days.�
Angel shook his head, and then stopped his movement. Drew watched him and sighed, spotting Carmen walking in with a co-star. She looked beautiful, like an angel.
“Man, are you lucky to have her.� Angel sighed after a while. Drew looked at him and Angel laughed.
“I mean it man. It’s not everyday a beautiful girl like that walks into your life. And she’s sweet. She’s defiantly a winner, and if you know better you’d treat her right.�
“Yeah, treat her right.� Drew said as Angel walked away. He closed his eyes and crinkled the paper cup in his hands. He was debating if he wanted to tell Carmen about the conversation him and Lea had two nights ago.
“We really need to talk.�
“Why do you have a pregnancy test in your hands?�
Lea sighed as she took a seat and started to crack her knuckles.
“Drew-“
Drew turned away and shook his head.
“I thought we were over Lea. You made it clear you wanted a divorce. Let me at least live a happy life in peace.�
Lea looked at him before getting up.
“We also agreed we would be able to be neutral friends.�
“We can be. Not now though…not-“
He turned around and looked at her.
“What?!� he finally asked.
“I’m pregnant with your baby.�
They were both silent. Drew looked at her, then started to laugh.
“Your kidding me.�
“I’m not-“
“Of all the time we were together now you all of a sudden become…�
“What are you implying?�
“You know what I’m implying.�
“You know damn well I would never cheat on you. Never.�
Drew looked at her again as Lea pulled the test out.
“I went to the clinic and they said I would have to wait a day or two. I couldn’t wait so I bought one and as soon as I got my result, I flew out here.�
Drew started to breathe as he sat down on his bed.
“But a baby?�
“I’m sorry Drew. I know the last thing you want is-“
“No, no, I want a baby. I just didn’t want it…..from….you.ââ⠀šÂ¬Ã‚Â�
He looked up at Lea who was beginning to tear.
“Your right. You have that beautiful actress for a girlfriend, why would you want plan Lea.�
Drew got up and grabbed her arm as she headed for the door.
“No, no, I didn’t….Lea, sit down.�
Lea followed him and sat on the bed.
“I will love this baby will all the devotion a father should love his child. I’m not going to abandon you.�
“Thank you.� Lea sighed, falling into his arms and hugging him. Drew sighed as he rubbed her back.
“The question is, how do I break it to Carmen?�
Drew sighed and shook his head. He still hadn’t came up with a resolution. Now, watching her, he knew what he had to do. He started to walk toward and cleared his throat. She turned around and stopped smiling at him.
“Hello Drew.�
“Hi Carmen, ummm, can we talk.�
Carmen gave a short nod and followed him to a quieter part of the theater.
“Can’t this wait because our last night is coming up and you know Rick is going too-“
“It can’t wait.� He sighed. Carmen nodded and took a seat down on the floor.
“Are you breaking up with me to go back to Lea?�
Drew looked at her flabbergasted and shook his head.
“No, why would I ever-“
“Its just, you haven’t called me. I thought you and her….� She stopped and started to rub her temples, smiling.
“I’m a fool. Maybe, maybe we shouldn’t-“
“No Carmen.� Drew asked, sitting beside her. He looked at her and shook his head.
“Look at you. Wearing shades inside,� he took them off and noticed her eyes. The usual, bright pupils looked of weariness.
“Are you okay?�
“Just tired Drew. Just very tired.�
He sighed and wrapped his arms around her.
“Before I tell you this, I want you to know something.�
“So you did fall for Lea!?� Carmen yelled. Drew sighed and shook his head.
“No, no I-“
Carmen nodded and sighed.
“I’m calming down, I’m calming down.�
Drew waited awhile and asked,
“Calmed.�
Carmen nodded and he continued.
“Carmen, I love you. That’s it, plain and simple. And I want you to know this because I love you,� he took a breathe in and sighed.
“Lea’s pregnant.�
They were both silent before Carmen whispered,
“what?�
“Lea’s-“
“Scratch that I heard you. What?�
“She came to tell me that she’s pregnant with my child.�
“And…..adn now what? You guys are going to get back together?�
“No.�
“Your just going to leave me for this child, I don’t understand-“ Carmen got up and started to pace around. She stopped and looked at him.
“What…..what are you going to do?�
Drew closed his eyes and answered,
“I’m going to father the baby.�
“Oh,� Carmen nodded and started to pace around.
“Are you. Are you going to father it. Take care of it when it cries in the middle of the night. Or you going to go to his softball games or her ballet recitals. Are you going to go to all its plays are you-“
“I’m going to be he or she’s father. Of course I will-“
“And me. I’m supposed to pretend like everythings happy when your around with the baby and Lea.�
“It won’t be the me, the baby and Lea, it would just be me and our baby and you would-“
“And it wouldn’t love me for me because it knew that I’m taking its real mother away from it.�
“Carmen-“
“DREW!!�
He was silent and asked,
“I love you,�
“No-“
“And I want to spend the rest of my life with you,� he grabbed her arms and hugged her to him.
“Let me love you like you need to be.�
Carmen closed her eyes and shook her head.
“Drew…… …I think we should break up.�
Drew opened his eyes and looked at her.
“You can’t-“
“We should do whats best for your new family.�
Drew shook his head and kissed her.
“Doesn’t that mean nothing to you?!�
Carmen looked at him and shook his head,
“I have to go to rehersal Drew.�
She let go of him and started to walk toward the stage….out of his life.

[Luv_98_Degrees]

i love your adds, Kris & Britt!!!! :Big Grin:

[Kristen07]

Glad y'all like this. :D We are going to have another colloaboration in the non-98section in the works. so keep on the look out for that! :)

[Luv_98_Degrees]

oooh can't wait!! :Big Grin:

[Forever_Lost]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(OrginialficwriterLN @ 2/17/06, 11:04pm) 36203</div>
Glad y'all like this. :D We are going to have another colloaboration in the non-98section in the works. so keep on the look out for that! :)
[/b]

Ooh cool. I can't wait to read that one. :)

[Biondo Sorto]

Completly off topic of this story but I'm going to post our new story, Deceptive Perception up tonight so look out for that!!! And Bumpers to this story!!!

[Luv_98_Degrees]

i just read your new story you guys & it's super! you must continue!! :Big Grin:

[Kristen07]

New add from me :)

Renee sighed deeply. Tonight was the third or fourth consecutive night she had drowned into her own depression. But what else could she do? She lost the one man she truly loved, with all her heart and soul. It was all because she had let the insecurity control her and she knew that shouldn’t have happened. “I should have listened and believed him….� Renee thought for the millionth time since the break up. “How could I have let this control me?� Hot tears threatened to spill again. She groaned loudly, punching her pillow. “No, I can’t cry any more. I have cried myself to sleep the past three nights, I’ve cried enough�
�But it hurts so much� Another part of her seemed to say.
It did. The thought of losing Nick brought more heartache than Bryan ever had. He meant more to her than any other man ever had in her life. To know that she would never feel his lips on hers, have him whisper sweetly in her ear how much he loved her, the love that they made, his smile… just to know that their relationship was no more stung at her heart. She shook her head. “I need to try to get my mind off of him�
It was no use. The minute she looked over to her dresser, there was her favorite picture of her and Nick. It was very low key, their apparel was pajamas, Renee had not even a spot of make up on her face and Nick was sporting the rugged look. It was taken on their second Christmas morning together… they looked so free and in love in that picture. “I guess I’ll never escape the memories,� She thought, sighing.
Suddenly she heard a knock on the front door. “Wow, who would want to visit me?� It was probably one of her worried friends trying to check up on her. “I really don’t feel like being social, but I’ll go ahead and answer� She pushed her messy brown hair away from her face and walked towards the door. She slowly opened it… the person on the other side giving her the surprise of her life. Nick stood there, dressed in a t-shirt and sweatpants, and did he look as hot as ever. What was he doing here? Probably to confirm the break up. Before he said that, she had to get one thing off her chest. She let him in wordlessly.
They sat down on the couch. “Nick, I need to get something off my chest before you say anything. You probably think I’m the most paranoid person you know. But I’m really not like that. It’s just that this situation brought it out. I never intended for you to see that…� She sighed, her blue eyes filled with tears.
“These past few months, you have acted like you don’t have even an ounce of trust in me and you have to be reminded every five seconds how I feel about you� He stated.
Renee shook her head. “It was never about that. It was about not trusting Jessica and not trusting the situation. You know I was hurt like this before, and I didn’t want to put my heart through that again. And I didn’t trust Jessica because what I knew of the divorce, I had this sense she would do what she did before. And she did, which has put us in almost shambles. You must have know in the back of your mind going into this situation that this might happen�
Nick was quiet for a moment. “Yeah, I did know that. I was scared that she would found out about us and not be too pleased with it. Obviously she wasn’t. And it damaged our relationship�
“I should have been more trusting of you. If you still don’t want to marry me, I completely understand. You deserve so much better than me� She was on the verge of crying.
He sighed, “I want to believe that you trust me, Renee, but your actions haven’t proven that to me�
“I really do love you and trust you, Nick.� She paused “You know, why did we start these fights in the first place?�
“You mean since we got engaged?� He asked.
She nodded.
Nick thought for a moment “To be honest, Jessica was indirectly a cause of that. I had known about a month or two before the tour that she would be my co headlining act. I didn’t tell you because I didn’t want you to worry. That was my fault. Maybe if I had been more upfront a little earlier, we could have smoothed things over. Maybe if I had been adamant against the tour producers and my manager by not having to see her again, this whole fiasco wouldn’t have happened.� He sighed. “So we are both at fault for arriving at this point�
Renee couldn’t believe Nick had lied to her about that. Still, she could see that Nick had been doing everything in his power to keep them together. “Well, we definitely need to be more open with each other� She stated tartly.
“I’m sorry I kept that a secret. I should have told you what to expect and maybe things could have gone smoother.�
“And I’m sorry for not trusting you more. I knew that you didn’t love her anymore. I just let that nagging feeling get the best of me. I really miss those old days and I want it to be that way again… but after the other night, you probably want nothing to do with me � She brushed away more tears.
“Renee… if I didn’t want anything to do with you, I wouldn’t even be here right now. I’m so tried of all that yelling and screaming, being mad at each other… I’d give anything to go back to where we were, too� He looked at her left hand Her ring was missing. “Where’s your ring?�
Her ring? She had removed it after the fight because she believed they were over. Maybe they weren’t after all. She went to her room, retrieved the box it was in and returned with it and handed the box to him.
He opened the box and took the ring out. “I know these last few months have been very trying for us, but somehow we have managed to stay together. At the end of the day, through all the flaws and miscommunications, I know it’s you I want to have by my side for the rest of my life. Will you still marry me, Renee?�
She gasped. “Yes�
He slipped the ring on her finger, and they embraced. Then they kissed. That kiss felt different, as if it was a new beginning for the both of them.
They broke away. “Wow� Renee said. “I really didn’t think that was going to happen�
Nick smiled “We just had some issues to work out between us. But it’s
all over now, baby. I promise�
“I love you, Nick, with all that I am�
“I love you too, Serena� Renee would never take for granted him saying those three little words to her ever again. They kissed again and then he asked “Do you want to come back to my condo with me?�
She nodded. “Absolutely. I could use some time out of this place. How long can I stay?�
Nick smiled “As long as you want�

20 minutes later, they left for Nick’s condo. “So did you tell her off again?� Renee asked him.
He sighed. “Yes. I made it clear that if she talks to me again, there will be serious consequences. So she’s gone now. Her name is not come up anymore for the rest of our lives�
Renee nodded in understanding. “That’s all I need to know.�

They arrived and headed up to his room. “Nick, do you mind if I use your shower?� she asked him.
“No, go right ahead.� He told her.
Renee went right in and let the hot water pour all over her body. It felt so good after moping in depression for several days.
After she was finished, she dressed in pajama pants and a very skimpy tank top. She walked out and noticed Nick flipping through the channels. She sat down on the bed next to him and began brushing her hair. Ironically, an old Newlyweds episode was on. Jessica and CaCee were going on about something random, while Nick looked on, an annoyed look on his face.
“You look so unhappy there, Nick� She observed.
He nodded “Yeah. That was when I started to suspect that she was cheating. I was just not a happy man at that time in my life�
“Why did you marry her anyway?�
“What does it matter, baby? That was my past, which I refuse to dwell on now. I’d rather focus on my future, who is sitting right next to me� He put his free arm around her waist.
Renee simply smiled, and kissed his cheek.
Then Nick threw in the towel and turned the TV off. He let out a big yawn. “I’m worn out, let’s get some sleep�
“Sounds like a winner to me� Renee turned off the lamp on the nightstand next to her.
They cuddled close next to each other under the covers. “You know something, honey?� Renee asked him.
“What babe?�
“We can actually look forward to our wedding now. No more clawing down each other’s throats and uncertainty. Doesn’t that feel so good?�
Nick smiled. “I know. Just a month to go. Hopefully it will be stress and drama free�
Renee chuckled. “I sure as heck hope so. Goodnight, Nick�
“Goodnight, Serena. I love you�
“I love you too� They kissed and feel asleep, glad to be in the other’s arms and that nothing could get in the way of their love now.

[Biondo Sorto]

Awww, how cute!!!! Love the add Kris, finally, relief!!! :)

[Biondo Sorto]

Carmen smiled one more time before the curtain closed. Everyone was yelling and screaming because it was their last play. She sighed. She didn’t want it to end. She did, in a way, but now she was officially letting go of Drew. When she had said it a week ago it didn’t seem so real because she continued to see him. Now, she knew it was. She walked toward her dressing room where she ran into Angel.
“Hi.� She smiled at him. He gave a short smile, then asked,
“Wanna go to the party after this.�
She began to say something but stopped. She spotted Drew and with him was Lea. She fought back her tears.
“No, I rather not.�
“Its our last night together!� Angel emphasized. Carmen nodded.
“I know. Lets keep it that way.�
She walked into her dressing room and fell to the floor. She couldn’t do this. She couldn’t go without Drew. But seeing him with Lea……she had to. Had to before he hurt her. She gathered the rest of her belongings, decided to give her roses away to the crew, and walked out of the theater. She was trying to tail down a cab when Angel ran toward her.
“Carmen!!�
She sighed and turned to him.
“What!!!!?�
He stopped in his tracks and asked.
“Does this deal with Drew?�
Carmen turned back to the street and tried flagging down a cab.
“You know he’s-“
“I don’t want to know.�
“But he-“
“DROP IT!!�
A few on looking people stopped to glance at the two and she sighed again.
“Angel, for the sake of me. Drop it.�
He looked at her and sighed.
“Its dropped. Bye Carmen. Good luck in the future.�
Carmen smiled and gave him a hug.
“You too.�
She turned to the street, found a cab, and drove a way from the theater.
When she got home, she debated what to do next. It was nine o’clock and relatively early. She wanted to call Renee but she had her own problems. She knew that all her other girlfriends were busy so she wasn’t surprised when she heard her brothers voice.
“Hey, what’s up?�
“I don’t know what to do Pablo.�
Pablo immediately recognized the pain in his baby sister’s voice and sighed.
“What happened?�
“Drew-“
“WHAT THE LITTLE [freak]ER DO!!!�
“Calm down Pablo.�
“Carmen I swear if he…�
“LISTEN TO ME!!!�
Pablo sighed into the phone and finally said,
“Listening.�
Carmen explained the situation to him, including Lea, and Pablo relaxed.
“Why’d you break up with him?�
“I didn’t-“ she was silent.
“He was only doing the right thing. He said he loved you.�
“I know.�
“And despite our differences I respect him for that.�
“I know.�
“So why’d you do it?�
Carmen thought about it, and then started to cry.
“Carmen…†�
“What if it turns out like mom and dad’s situation?�
“Dad cheated on Mom. Then he finally divorced her.�
“But he loves his other family more than us. What if Drew chooses Lea and his daughter over me?�
“Carmen-“
“I can’t go through that pain again!!!�
She started to cry again and Pablo could only sigh on the other end.

Drew was in his hotel room watching TV when someone knocked on the door. He sighed and walked to it, surprised to see Lea on the other end.
“Hi.�
“Hi.�
They stood there and Drew sighed.
“Can I come in.�
“Oh yeah, sure.�
He moved aside so she could walk in.
“So….where†™s Carmen?â€�
“Who?�
“Carmen.�
Drew sighed as he fell down on the bed.
“At home. Probably watching TV.�
“At home. Why didn’t she go to the party earlier?�
“I don’t know.�
“You guys date and you don’t know?� she asked flatly.
“WE BROKE UP!!� he yelled.
Lea looked at him surprised then nodded.
“That’s why I’ve rarely seen her.�
“Yeah.� He mumbled.
“Well-“
“Could you not talk? It’s sorta your fault.�
“Excuse me?�
“If you hadn’t shown up, we would still be together.�
Lea looked at him shocked as he got up and got a can of beer out of the small refrigerator.
“Are you drunk? Or just mad?�
“This is my first beer so most likely mad.�
“Your pinning that on me?�
“If you hadn’t shown up crying about being pregnant then it would’ve never happened.�
Lea looked at him again, then shook her head.
“I don’t need this right now.�
“Go. Run. You’re bothering me anyways.�
Lea’s eyes started to brim with tears as she got up and slapped Drew in the face.
“I’m glad that I was able to do Carmen a favor.� She mumbled, and then walked out of the room fuming. Drew touched his now red cheek and sighed.
“I need to call Nick.�

[Forever_Lost]

Great adds you two! :D

[Luv_98_Degrees]

aww poor Drew!

awesome adds you guys! love it!! keep it up!!!! :Big Grin:

[Kristen07]

Ok.... this part of the board is kind of dead so I am going to post an add to liven it up a bit. Hope y'all enjoy :)

Nick sighed as he looked out his kitchen window at the late afternoon light. Today had been a good day. He had done absolutely nothing after being on the go and stressed for the past month and a half. Last night felt so good. It felt freeing to work out all of his and Renee’s little snags and remember what their relationship had been like when they didn’t have all the hurt and uncertainty surrounding them. He couldn’t wait to marry her now, and begin his new try at marriage with her. They planned to go house hunting and put the finishing touches on their wedding plans within the next month. It was going to be a beautiful ceremony, at a beachfront resort with about 100 or so guests. He smiled. Life was good now. He hoped it would only stay that way.

His cell phone took him out of his blissful state.

“Hello?�

“Nick? It’s me� It was Drew and he had a broken tone in his voice.

“Hey Drew, what’s wrong?�

“Well… it’s a long story. You got some time?�

“Yeah, sure. Talk away� Nick walked over to the living room and began sitting on the couch.

“Well, Carm and I were at heading back to my hotel room when Lea was waiting for me. I told Carmen to leave, not in a mean way so I could see what Lea wanted. She did, but she looked hurt. So Lea told me… While we are in the middle of a divorce mind you… that she is pregnant with my child. And now Carmen broke up with me because of it, even though I had no intension of leaving her�

Nick’s jaw dropped wide open. He couldn’t believe it. Drew didn’t need this now, not all everything has had brought. “I’m speechless, Drew. I don’t know what to say�

“You don’t have to say anything. I just don’t know… I love Carmen deeply even though our romance has been a whirlwind. But at the same time, I want to be a father to the baby…I’m not going to just abandon Lea and let her fend for herself with it� He sighed, sniffling.

“I’m so sorry Drew. I know your pain�

“Yeah… from one ex to another� Drew said sarcastically. “Enough about my pain. What have you been up to?�

“Well, Renee and I are getting married again.� He said, smiling.

“Whoa! What a turnaround…you were cussing me out about it a few days ago…what gives?�

“I came back to LA… and went to her apartment. We put all of our problems out there and figured out how to fix them.�

“And you’re all lovey-dovey and making love to each other now, right?�

Nick rolled his eyes. “Shut up, Drew, that is none of your business�

“Sorry, my smart [arse] tude had to come into play there.�

“Yeah, thanks a lot. Anyway, life’s good for me now. All I have to do is help put the wedding together, plan the honeymoon, and buy a house�

“Now your storm calms and I get all the drama� Drew said, again sarcasm laced through his tone.

“Hey, we’ve both been though a lot lately.� He paused “Hang in there Drew, I’m sure my fiancé has some tricks up her sleeve to make sure she goes back into your arms�

“And I hope she works them soon… because I just don’t know what I’m going to do without Carmen.� He sighed heavily. “Well, I’m gonna go now, Nick. Thanks for listening�

“Anytime bro, we know we have each other’s backs. Chin up, ok?�

“I’ll try. Talk to you later�

“Ok, bye� Nick hung up. He looked at his watch. 5:45. Maybe since it was his and Renee’s first night after the drama was over, he’d cook dinner. He searched through the fridge and found some good food to cook. He began to cook it, carefully watching it. Then, while everything was cooling, he set the table and put the food in serving dishes. At 6:30 he heard Renee open the front door. He walked to greet her “Hey sweetheart�
Renee smiled “Hey� They exchanged a kiss. “Something smells good…�
“Well, follow me and you’ll see what it is� he took her hand and they went into the dinning room.
“Oh goodness, Nick, why did you do this?�
“I thought maybe the first night without everything that’s going on was worth celebrating. Why, do you not like it?�
“No… I’m just surprised, pleasantly though� She said, smiling.
They sat down to eat and enjoyed a comfortable dinner. They ate pretty much in silence, but it was nowhere near awkward. Afterwards, they did the dishes and went out onto the back porch to watch the sunset. After cuddling in comfortable silence and talking about nothing, Nick told her “I talked to my brother a little today�
Renee’s head rose from his shoulder. “Oh really? How is he?� She inquired.
“Well… another episode of the Lachey-Opio Soap Opera has unfolded�
She gasped. “What’s happened this time?�
“Well, Lea is pregnant with Drew’s baby and Carmen left him because she thinks he’s going to leave her for Lea and the baby�
Renee’s jaw dropped wide open. “You’re kidding�
Nick shook his head. “Not at all. He’s really broken about it, I can tell. He loves Carmen. I told him you would work some of your magic to send her back to him�
She had a dubious expression on her face. “I don’t know, Nick. I’ll try, but it may be beyond my control. Why does drama have to follow the four of us wherever we go?�
Nick shrugged. “But all I know is that all of ours is over now� He put his hand on her face, brushing away a few stray strands of silky brown hair.
“Yes it is. We’re officially getting married now. There is no way our engagement will be broken. I can’t wait to start our marriage�
“Neither can I. I love you Serena�
“I love you, too, Nicky� Nick smirked a slight bit; he hated that name. But it was ok coming from Renee’s lips. He kissed her anyway because there was nothing that could make him not love her.

[Biondo Sorto]

That add was so good!!!! Now its my turn to put some twists and turns to our lovely story!!!

[Kristen07]

Uh huh... and I'm sure you'll do a darn good job on it, too :)

[Luv_98_Degrees]

gooddd add goodddd add!!!!! more please!!!!!!!! :Big Grin:

[a7xnsl98d]

:yahoo: I finally got through the whole thing and am up to date! Whew!

This is great, Kris and Britt. I'm loving every add. Keep up the good work!

T

[Kristen07]

Thank you very much Tasha, my fellow West Virginian :Big Grin: I'm glad you are enjoying it. And thanks to you to Mabel, glad you're enjoying it.

[Luv_98_Degrees]

you're welcome, Kris! keep up the great work! :Big Grin:

[Biondo Sorto]

Thanks Guys. Me and Kris aim to please and we hope that every add you read is enjoyable!!!

[Biondo Sorto]

Here's a long add for ya!!!

Carmen smiled as she looked around her new apartment. It had been two weeks since she last saw Drew. Two long, painful weeks. She pulled through it though. She moved back to L.A. Ever since the play, she had been getting tons of callings from movies from a number of studios. She had decided on filming two movies, one which she would start shooting the after Renee’s wedding. She had talked to Paul. He had spent an endless amount of months calling her and because she was with Drew, she ignored them all. Then she cared; now she didn’t. They talked about the whole thing, the reason why he did everything. Jessica had been behind the whole thing and was blackmailing him the whole time. Carmen knew she shouldn’t risk another relationship with him…..but she stopped caring. She didn’t want anymore long term relationships. She been there and done that, she saw what happened to people who loved another too much.

So they started dating and everything was going well. She had got Renee’s invitation to her wedding, but hadn’t talked to her since Drew and her broke up. She had been meaning to, but for some odd reason couldn’t get herself to do it. She was now sitting outside on her balcony when her cell phone went off. She got up and got it, smiling at the person on the other line,
“Hey babe. How are ya?�
“I’m fine,� she walked toward her kitchen.
“How are you?�
“I’m good. We just finished up the movie shoot.�
“So you’ll be able to come over after all.�
“Yeah,� he was quiet and Carmen could tell he was smiling.
“Miss me much?�
“Well, two weeks is a long time. Especially since I only saw you once.�
“Well, now we have a whole two weeks to make it up to each other.�
“Yeah. Speaking of which, have you talked to Renee? Know you guys have been on silent mode�
“Well…Iâ€â⠀žÂ¢m getting around to it.â€ÂÂ�
“I take that as a no.�
“Yeah.�
“You guys still friends?�
“Just because we stopped talking to each other doesn’t mean we stopped being friends.�
“I suppose.�
Carmen smiled as she dug a granola bar out of her cabinet.
“How about this. You’re driving home, right?�
“Right.�
“Why don’t you pick something up and stop by my place. I do miss you.�
“Are you sure. I know you had wanted some peace…�
“Yeah. And besides,� she grabbed a bottle of water out of her fridge.
“You need to see the place anyways.�
“Your right. All right then, I’ll see you in thirty minutes.�
“All right, bye.� She hung up the phone and walked back toward the porch. She had been sitting down for just a minute when her phone went off again. She sighed as she picked it up.
“Hello?�
“Carmen?�
“Yeah….†� She looked down at caller ID.
“Renee?�
“Yeah.�
“Hey! How are you?�
“Good. Did you get my invitation?�
“I got it.�
“That’s good.�
There was an awkward moment of silence.
“You do know that you’re a bridesmaid.�
“I’m a….what?�
“Or you would if you talked to Drew.�
Carmen was silent for a moment when she sighed,
“What do you want?�
“I heard about you and Drew. I’m surprised that you didn’t call me though.�
“I needed some time alone.�
“Oh. Well….what happened.�
“You know what happened. I’m sure Nick told you.�
“A little. Drew is going to care for Lea and her baby. Why does this bother you though?�
“Becauseɉۈ ‚¦.you remember what I told you about my mom and dad.â€ÂÂ�
“I-“ she cut off short and was silent.
“Do you remember now?� Carmen whispered.
“I do.� Renee sighed.
“And do you understand? You are the shrink after all.�
“I do.�
“So now you see why me and Drew can’t be together.�
“No, no. Drew isn’t like that. He’s different…he’s sweet, loving, charming…�
“And a father.�
“Carmen…†¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦..â€Â�
“I know what your thinking but how can I risk that. After all the pain that I saw my mother in. I can’t handle all that pain.�
“But Drew loves you. He loves you. Do you know that their hasn’t been a single day that he hasn’t though about you. A single night he hasn’t shed a tear….�
“I don’t care. Renee, I have to go, company is coming.�
“Are you sure….�
“Renee.�
“Fine. I meant that bridesmaid thing. I want you to be there this Thursday at 6. At Lamina Beachfront Resort.�
“All right, all right I’ll be there,�
The doorbell rang and she got up from my seat.
“Well, companies here. Talk to you later.�
“Bye.�
She hung up the phone and opened the door, smiling at Paul.
“That was fast,� She said, grabbing the brown bag he was holding.
“Ummm, smells like pasta.�
“That’s because it is.� He said, grabbing her from the waist and hugging her.
“I’ve missed you.� He whispered in my ear. She smiled faintly and looked at him.
“Me too.�
She walked to the kitchen and started to unpack. A couple of seconds later she could feel his arms wrap around her. She smiled as she turned around.
“You are bothering me like a fly today.�
“I told you I missed you.�
He bent down and kissed her. She pulled away and bit her lip.
“What?�
“You remember Renee.�
“Yeah.�
“She’s getting married in two weeks.�
“I know. I postponed my schedule to go with you.�
She gave another faint smile and turned around.
“I..uhh, am I bridesmaid.�
“Really.� He said, starting to kiss her neck. She pulled out of his embrace.
“Yeah…uhh, Paul. I have to go to the bathroom.�
“Okay. I’ll finish here.�
She nodded and walked out the room and into my bathroom. She turned on the lights and sat on the toilet. The realization hit her hard. She would have to see Drew.

Drew’s two weeks had been miserable. He didn’t know what to do with himself. He had thrown himself at thousands of project but nothing could make the pain in his heart. Nick and the guys had been trying, but the results weren’t in the best. And on top of that, he and Lea’s relationship had been rocky. He kept on apologizing for what he said that night in the hotel but Lea wasn’t hearing it. He didn’t think he had really hurt her so much. But she only talked to him if she had too. Now he had to go this rehearsal dinner. He invited Lea but he doubted she was going with him. In fact, Nick or one of the guys probably persuaded her. And she was a bridesmaid. He walked into the beach resort; it was a nice play with a cool environment, and scanned for one of the guys. He saw Justin and waved.
“Hey J.� he said.
“Hey. How you been holding up.�
“Pretty good.�
He walked into the ball room in which they would be rehearsing.
“Everyone else is here.�
“Yeah, were waiting on a bridesmaid though.�
“Oh.�
He scanned the room and sighed.
“Do you know who any of the bridesmaids are?�
“If you’re asking if I know if Carmen is one, no.�
“Damn.� I muttered sighing.
“You’re going to have to accept she’s gone.�
“I don’t want to.�
“But eventually, you’ll have too.�
I looked down and nodded.
“I know.�
He gave Drew a pat on the back and walked away. Drew sighed as he picked up a cup of champagne. His eyes started to roam the room when he spotted her. She was wearing a white halter top sundress that stopped at her knees. She had worn tan high heeled sandals and her hair was pinned with a sunflower, with a few bangs coming in front of her face. Drew could feel himself falling in love again.
“Who’s the sexy little number over there?� Jeff smiled, eyeing her.
Drew couldn’t speak. He didn’t think two weeks could do this to him.
“Well, if you can’t tell me I’ll find out myself.� He put down the beer he was drinking and walked toward her. He could see the two conversing, but didn’t understand what they were saying. Jeff started to bring her toward him and Drew started to scan the room, looking for possible exits. Before he knew it they were standing in front of him.
“Hey Drew, this is Carmen. Carmen, this is my bud, Drew.�
Carmen’s smile faded as she looked at Drew.
He cleared his voice and stuck out his hand.
“Hello Carmen. Nice to see you again.�
“And you Drew.� She started to play with her nails. Jeff looked confused and continued to say,
“So Drew, you know Carmen’s the last bridesmaid, right? So now we can start this thing.�
“What?� He asked, looking up at him.
“Yeah.�
“No.�
“WHAT!!�
“You okay.� Jeff asked, looking at her.
“Renee told me…she said he already knew…he-“
“I’m sorry you have to deal with me.� Drew mumbled.
“Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. You two know each other?� Jeff asked confused.
“Know each other?� Carmen snorted.
“Jeff, we dated.� Drew said flatly, looking up.
“Excuse me.� he turned around and stared to walk out toward the balcony area. He couldn’t do this. A whole two hours with Carmen by his side. He couldn’t do it.
“Hey bud.� Nick smiled, walking beside him.
“You guys are trying to torture me.�
“What do you mean?�
“You told Carmen that I knew she was coming. How could you?�
“Drew I-“
“You know I’m not ready to deal with that!�
“Drew, let me explain.�
“Fine,� he said, putting down his gl[arse] and looking at him.
“I’m listening.�

[a7xnsl98d]

First off, your welcome, you two!

Second, another cliff-hanger! Need more...want more..... :Blush:

[Luv_98_Degrees]

omgg don't leave it there!!!!! more please, Britt & Kris!!!!! :Big Grin:

[a7xnsl98d]

I know it's only been 4 days, but I need a fix!! :Cry:

[Luv_98_Degrees]

no pressure but more please you guys!!!!!!!!

[Kristen07]

Hey y'all

Well, I am working on this add as we speak! I'm not going to fully promise it toinght. But if it's not done tonight... i will have it for sure for y'all tomorrow. :Big Grin:

[Luv_98_Degrees]

aww can't wait Kris!!!! HURRY UP!!!!! ..please.

[Kristen07]

Welll..... this is add is a week late...... and I apologize, I got distracted. Thanks to my girl Brit for starting this for me when i was on writers block.... anyway, hope y'all enjoy :)

Nick started to play with the beer in his hand as he looked out at the horizon.
“I was going to tell you at first but…..�
“But what? You though a surprised guess was better?!�
“No…..I just thought….�
“For once you were using that brain of yours in that big head. Do me a favor Nick, next time you think, DON’T tell me!!�
“Listen DAMMIT!!�
Drew looked at him surprised and put his hands up.
“I KNEW what would happen when you saw her. Renee and I had been debating telling the both of you for some weeks; we just didn’t know how to come across it. We both decided this would be best. We can do all we want, but its going to take the both of you to actually do something about getting together. We know how much you long for Carmen……and despite her tough exterior I saw the way she looked at you when you walked away.�
Drew shook his head and sighed.
“I know what I have to do Nick. You don’t think I haven’t tried walking out the door and talking to her? But I remember the pain she was in…the pain that I caused both her and Lea. God, that’s screwed up too.�
“Drew, what’d you do?�
“You know about the outburst we had at my hotel. She’s not accepting my apologies. She won’t even look at me. I know she wants me to still be a father but…I’ve screwed up so much. And I can’t even explain it to Carmen.�
“Lea will come around. She always does.�
“She might but Carmen won’t.�
Nick sighed.
“Drew, it might seem like she won’t come around, but she will. She loves you.�
Drew shook his head again.
“For you its so easy. Everything always gets paved out the way you want it, it’s always been that way for you. I’ve always had to work hard. When you didn’t do your homework for school, you feign sick I tried the same trick; I had to go. When you were out partying and flirting with girls when you had Jessica, I had to restrain and stay at home watching movies from the 70’s, trying to keep my promise to Lea. When you and Renee had your big spat, Renee came back to you because she loved you and she didn’t have a reason to hold a grudge. It’s not so easy for me Nick, okay. I’m not you.�
Nick stared at him for a while, shocked. But as much as he didn’t want to admit it, it was true. He always got his way in life. Maybe it was because he was the older of the two brothers, he didn’t know. But Drew was partially wrong about him and Renee. Nick went back to her, not vise versa. He felt guilty, because he was trying so hard to help, but it seemed to blow up in his face. “You’re right, I have. I’m only trying to make you happy Drew. I wish you would see that�
“I know you are Nick, but I just… “ He paused, speechless. “I just know it isn’t going to be that easy for us to get back together.�
“I think Renee knows the tools to break Carmen’s wall down and convince her you are the right man for her. I mean, it’s not like your having a romance with Lea in the process. “
Drew nodded “I wish she would see that. I wish I knew why she left so suddenly…why she is hurting… DAMMIT I wish this hadn’t of happened, period. If I could… I’d marry her right now.� He heaved a heavy, frustrated sigh, put his hands on the balcony railing to keep him from going on an anger rampage. He took a deep breath as Nick stood next to him, wordless.
Finally, he regained his composure. “It kills me to see her with that Paul scumbag. Especially how he disrespected her that night the fight happened in her apartment. I don’t understand what he has that I don’t… besides the fact that he’s not going to be a father…� He stopped in midthought.
“And Drew, you kind of had it wrong about how Renee and I got back together. I went back to her, even though some people would call me stupid for doing so since she didn’t trust me when I was away with an ex�
Drew spat. “Jessica was a… well I think we’ve already called her every derogatory female term in the book. Ren had a right to worry, but not as much as she did. Anyway, I was trying to make a point and I think I got it across.�
“Yes, you did� Nick sipped a little bit of his beer.
Drew looked at his brother “What do you say we go rejoin the guests?�
Nick raised an eyebrow “Even if means seeing Carmen all across the room?�
Drew nodded. “Yes, even if it means that�

*~*

Renee sat with Kayleigh, Carmen, Krissy, Brittany, and Casey, all of who were to be bridesmaids in the wedding. Carmen was her usual self, laughing, joking and making new friends. Still, her and Renee had barely spoken any words to each other tonight. She had no idea why; nothing had happened to make Carmen hate her. Maybe it was because she was going to have her fairy tale ending with her Lachey and Carmen wasn’t going to, or at least Carmen had convinced herself of that fact. The truth was that Drew loved her deeply. She could tell that from being around them. She’d snuck glances at Drew tonight and she could see the heartache and longing in his eyes that she had seen numerous times. And she also knew Carmen loved Drew for than any other man in her life. They were soulmates. She knew it. Renee was determined to see them get back into each other’s arms where they belonged. She and Nick had devised a match making plan to reunite them, but she had no idea how his end of the plan was going. They hadn’t seen much of each other since arriving due to socialization.
“You’re a lot chattier than you usually are tonight Renee� Casey observed. “Is something wrong with you?�
She shook her head “Not at all .I’m just in a great mood.�
“And why shouldn’t you be?� Kayleigh asked, “You’re marrying the sexiest man in the world, your life is rid of Jessica, and the wedding is coming together very nicely�
“Yes it is. I love my life right now…. I just want to dance and sing… even though I can’t� Renee had a big grin on her face.
“I’m sure you can… try why don’t you?� Brittany suggested.
She shook her head “In front of all these people? Heck no� She motioned to all of the guest mingling around them.
“Aww Ren…. You’ve got us curious now� Casey told her.
“Nah…� She looked over at Carmen, who had been quiet for the last five minutes. “Are you feeling ok, Carmen?�
She nodded “Yes, I’m fine�
“Not to seem rude, but I read in the tabloids you broke up with Drew� Krissy said.
Carmen rolled her eyes. “I’m not surprised. Did they say anything about Lea and the baby?�
Krissy shook her head, a confused look on her face. “No… why do you ask?
“Let’s just say that Drew’s ex wife is pregnant with his baby and I left him because of that�
“Did you let him explain the whole thing?� Brittany inquired.
“Not fully… I was so hurt about the pregnancy that I ran away really fast� She sighed “He really wants to be the father to the baby… but he also kept trying to tell me he loved me.�
“Does he still love the mother of the baby?�
Carmen was silent for a moment. “No offense, Brittany, but I don’t want to go into that…�
“He doesn’t and I wish you could see that� Renee thought. “He adores you�
“�Oh, I’m sorry if I offended you�
Carmen shook her head “You didn’t… I just don’t want to talk about it any longer�
As if it was perfect coincidence, Nick and Drew walked into the ballroom from the balcony.
Carmen had had enough. She bolted in the direction of the restroom. The group exchanged glances, baffled. Renee stood up and walked after her.

Once in there, she saw Carmen in the corner, hunched over and curled up in a ball like a lost child. “What’s wrong, Carmen?� Renee asked.
“Nothing. You go out there and have fun… it’s your night� she sniffled
“No. I want to know what’s wrong. Please tell me� Renee stated firmly but gently, sitting down in front of her.
“I’m just hurt…. Thinking about Drew and what he’s probably doing right now…�
“What do you think that is?�
“As soon as I walked away from him on that stage, he probably ran back into Lea’s arms because he loves her still even though they are in divorce proceedings.�
“What makes you so confident that’s the truth?� Renee inquired.
“Because of what my father did to my mother. You know that whole story.
‘Well, refresh my memory so maybe I can help you more�
Carmen closed her eyes, going back to that broken childhood. “It’s still so vivid to me, Renee. My mom was out doing something… I don’t remember exactly what, and my dad brought home this knockout model, right in front of Pablo and I’s faces! Then he took her back to their bedroom and had sex with her. A few weeks later, he filed for divorce. Mom had no idea he was cheating until the divorce� She paused “Then Dad went off and had another family with this woman and treated us like we weren’t his. I remember Mom crying herself to sleep. I felt so hurt that he had done this…he loves his other family more.�
“So you’re afraid that the same thing would happen again�
She nodded. “As soon as Drew told me the news, those memories flashed right before my eyes. So I walked away because I didn’t want to face that heartache again.
“You sound exactly like me... afraid that a past experience will repeat itself.�
“Yeah… and so what’s your point?�
“It doesn’t always have to be that way. When I was freaking out about Jessica, you tried to get me to see how much Nick hated her and would never go to back to her, but I refused to listen. So I am going to do the same for you. Drew loves you, deeply. He’s never been happier with anyone, He cries at night for you… I’ve seen that look of longing and heartache in his eyes numerous times. He’s hurting because you are gone, it’s obvious.�
“And you’re sure that’s not a rehearsed answer that Nicholas told you to recite to me?�
“I’m frickin serious, Carm. You’re not going to listen to me are you?�
“I don’t know…�
“Look… Drew isn’t going to throw out the divorce papers because she’s carrying his child.�
Again, Carmen was quiet. “I know you think I’m prying too much… but I only want the best for you. And Drew’s it… you know deep in your heart he is�
“Thanks, Renee… I appreciate this talk.. I needed it� She sighed “What do you say we go mingle some more?�
“Yeah, lets.� Renee helped Carmen up and the two women walked out of the restroom, arm in arm.

[a7xnsl98d]

:dance: Thanks, Kris! It was wonderful! Great job!

[Biondo Sorto]

I should have my add up by tonight or tomorrow night......went out of a town for a few days, lol

[Biondo Sorto]

here it is!!!

Carmen sighed as she woke up. It had been a whole week since she saw Drew. One long, painful, slow week. She didn’t know what Renee and Nick were up too, but it was starting to annoy her. She understood what Renee had told her in the bathroom a week earlier. Their situation was somewhat similar. But Renee didn’t have to worry about a baby entering the picture, and an old relationship that could possibly become something. Carmen shook her head in frustration as she threw the covers off her and headed toward the bathroom. She couldn’t allow what her and Nick were plotting to come true. She did admit, though it pained her, that she missed Drew. In fact, she was still head over heels for him. But she couldn’t allow herself to love him, and for him to leave him to go with his wife and daughter. If that ever happened to her again, she wouldn’t know how to pull herself through. Or to love again. Being this way was allowing herself some pleasure. Paul was just there for a crying shoulder, someone to cuddle with when she was lonely and to feel her hearts desire when she was down. She didn’t expect anything out of their relationship, despite what he thought. She was in the middle of her thoughts and turning on her shower water when her phone rang. She sighed as she walked to her phone. Who would be calling her at eight in the morning?
“Hello?�
“Hey Carmen, its Brittany. How ya doing?�
Carmen smiled at the sound of her Brittany’s bubbly voice. Despite their rocky start, she found Brittany to be as pleasant as the other girls.
“Good. Just about to jump into the shower.�
“Me too!!! Well, I was actually calling to tell you about the picnic were having at two thirty.�
“Picnic?
�Remember how you were able to get all those….uhh…essentials for Renee’s bachelorette party.�
“Yeah…�
“Well, Kayleigh couldn’t convince her to come. So we took you up on having a picnic before we drag her to Kayleigh house where the real fun begins. And Nick’s having his bachelors party.�
“Sounds like fun. All right, where’s is going to be at?�
“Garian Park. By the lake.�
“Ooo the lake.� She teased, then stopped short.
“Wait, are the…..guys going to be there.�
“Yeah. Its pretty much open for all the people participating in the wedding. And if they have a special someone to accompany them.�
She started to grumble as she thought about seeing Drew again, then stopped short and smiled.
“All right, well, I’ll see you then.�
“Okay, bye.�
Carmen hung up the phone. If Renee and Nick thought she could try to outsmart her again, she had something for the both of them.

Drew helped pitch the large tent that would be providing them with shade for the barbeque.
“Are you sure she’s coming?� he asked as he walked toward Nick, who was starting the grill.
“Brittany told Renee that she was. Don’t worry, girls show up late for all types of events. Its in their nature.�
Drew nodded his head but looked toward the parking lot again. It wasn’t like Carmen to be late. She hated being late for anything, and hated anyone who was late. He sighed as he turned around and started helping Nick grill up the burgers and dogs. Might as well make use of his time.
“Hey baby, anything ready yet?� Renee asked, walking over with a platter in her hands.
“I barely got the grill started!!�
“Are you serious?� Renee stared at Nick, then looked toward Drew.
“You should’ve started the grill.�
“Listen, I’M going to start the grill. Drew can’t do everything for me.�
“But maybe he should.�
Nick shoot her a look as she laughed and wrapped her arms around him.
“I’m just kidding.� She laughed, then looked toward Drew.
“Any sign of Cam Cam?�
“No.� he mumbled, not really want to give himself an excuse to think of her again.
“Hey, who’s the hottie Carmen arrived with?� Krissy asked, walking toward Nick with seasoning salt.
“What do you mean, “who’s the hottie Carmen arrived with�? She shouldn’t be arriving with anybody?� Renee said, letting go of Nick and walking toward Krissy. Krissy shrugged.
“Fine then, don’t tell me. But he is a little cutie.� She said, walking away. Renee followed her and Drew looked at Nick, who in turn looked at him.
“Uhhhhh Dad, do you think you could watch the grill for me?�
John, who had been quietly observing the four of them the whole time, nodded and smiled.
Both Drew and Nick walked out toward the large play area where people were mingling around and started to scan the crowd for any site of Carmen.
“Do you see here anywhere?� Nick asked after a while.
“Not really. Do YOU see her anywhere?�
“Not really.�
They both sighed as they headed toward John, when a guy ran head on with Drew.
“Aww man I’m sorry, I didn’t see where I was-“ Drew cut short as he got up and looked at the tall guy he had ran into.
“Paul?�

Carmen rolled her eyes as Renee closely followed her behind.
“I don’t believe you bought him!!!� she was yelling at her.
“We were going to hang out today anyways. There wasn’t any use in just lying to him. Besides, Brittany said it was okay to bring someone. What’s the big deal?�
“Bull [crap] you had something planned. Last I recalled, we were doing something.�
“Plans changed. Besides, its not hurting anyone,� she scanned the small crowd again and sighed.
“[crap]!!�
“What now?� Renee asked, looking in her general direction, then sighed.
“[crap]! Its not hurting anyone eh?�
“Shut-up.� Carmen muttered walking toward Drew and Paul.
“Babe, I’ve been looking everywhere for ya.� She smiled, looping her arms with his.
“I was looking for you too when I ran into an old, uhh, friend of ours.�
Carmen turned toward Drew who was taking off his hat and fumbling around with the label.
“Hey Drew.�
“Hi Carmen.� He softly whispered. Carmen’s heart melted as he put his hat back on and looked up at her. His soft, gentle, happy eyes were a dark grey. He had large circles underneath his eyes, and signs of weariness were showing on his face. She had never seen him look this low. But the whole week he had been fine. She wondered what had brought this on him. Lea? The baby?
“So, what are you guys planning on having?� Paul’s voice broke her off her thoughts and she snapped back to reality.
“What do you think?� she asked sarcastically.
“Burgers and dogs?�
“Bingo.� Nick muttered.
Carmen sighed. She knew bringing Paul would just add on to a lot of unwanted stress. But she just had to avoid Nick and Renee…either way she was screwed.
“Paul, how about we go out on the lake and go jet-skiing or something. Brittany and Kayleigh are already out there.�
“Yeah. See you guys around later.�
She turned around and sighed. If she was to feel so good about her plan, how come she felt like crap inside.

Drew sat in his car, debating whether he would turn on the engine or not. He was tempted to drive away from the park, out of the state, the country for that matter. Seeing Carmen so happy with Paul made him feel ten times worse. He sighed as he put his head on the steering wheel. If he did drive off, he was allowing Paul to win not only the battle, but the war. He was admitting that Carmen didn’t mean as much as she did to him, and he didn’t want any of this to happen. He sighed and took his keys out of the ignition and got out of the car. He might as well figure out some way to win her heart while she was here. He started the long trek back to the picnic area, looking down and debating something when he ran head on to someone.
“I’m sorry. I keep on running into people today…� he muttered getting up.
“Its fine I-“ Carmen stopped talking and looked at him.
“Hi Drew….again.�
His stomach rolled as he gave a short smile.
“Hi.�
She also gave a short smile and started to play with her flip flops.
“So…where were you headed?�
“The car. Paul forgot his towel.� She rolled his eyes and he laughed.
“Well, you probably made him lug ten thousand things today. I would too.�
Carmen gave a light laugh and shook her head.
“What are you doing all the way over here though? Kinda far away from the grounds.�
“I…uhh… thought I forgot something but it was in my pocket the whole time.� He stuttered, trying to look for an excuse.
“What?�
“My….uhh,â€à ‚Â� he dug in his pocket,
“Wallet.�
“Dork!!� she laughed, slightly hitting him on the shoulder.
He shrugged, giving a bashful smile.
“You are a dork. Your wallet? Really Drew, every male keeps that in his wallet.�
“Well, I spaced it!! And that’s a generalization.�
“Oh, get over it.� She rolled her eyes again, but Drew was pleased to know in a playful way.
“So……ar e you going to Renee’s bachelorette party?�
“Oh yeah,� Carmen smiled, and then mumbled something.
“What?� Drew asked again.
She mumbled it again and he shrugged. Carmen sighed and pulled him toward her.
“I hired strippers. But don’t let her know that.�
“Ohh…� Drew nodded, and then laughed.
“She’s going to die.�
“I know!!! My 140 dollars aren’t going to go to waste!�
“140 dollars for strippers.�
“Well…… you only get married once!!� She laughed. Drew nodded and she looked at him.
“What about you, do you guys have anything planned for Nick?�
“Well…� he began.
“Come on, tell me!!� she said, pushing him. He smiled and gave a bashful nod.
“We got him some…..last minute necessities.�
“I bet.� She winked and he laughed.
“Don’t tell anyone. Even Nick doesn’t know. We’re trying to keep it a secret.�
“Secret…..rightâ⠂¬Â¦.â€Â�
“Well, so far it has been.�
“I won’t tell anyone Andrew.� She smiled. He smiled back, taking a good look at her. She was wearing a royal blue bikini with a small skirt. He liked the view, he just wish he could make her his. He sighed.
“Carmen.�
“Yeah.�
“What happ-“
“CARMEN!!! MY TOWEL!!!!!�
Both of them turned around to see a very wet Paul walking toward them. Carmen sighed and shook her head.
“I forgot I-“ she looked toward Drew who was looking at Paul.
“What happened babe, forget about me?� he asked as he finally reached her.
“Uh…….w ell….� she looked at Drew again who was shaking his head.
“Well I’m wet!!! Or can’t you tell.� He started hugging her as she tried to pull from his wet grasp.
“Okay, okay here’s the car keys. Get your towel.�
“I will.� He smiled, pulling her toward him.
“But not without a kiss.�
“Oh, Paul, this isn’t-“
He had already started kissing her and Drew could fell himself hurting all over again.
“I’ll†¦Ã¢â‚¬Â¦leave you two alone.â€Â� He murmured as he headed back toward the tent. He really couldn’t wait to go to Nick’s bachelor party. All the better reason to avoid Carmen and Paul.

[Luv_98_Degrees]

awwww another cliff hanger..i think i'm gonna fall off soon....more please guys your adds are AWESOMEE! :Big Grin:

[a7xnsl98d]

:Big Grin: I've been swamped here at work, and at home! I'm SO sorry that I didn't notice the add until today! Usually I'm right on it!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! It was great, but I'm with Mabel, I'm going to fall off soon, too, but at least I'll have company! :Big Grin:

[Biondo Sorto]

lol, that part wasn't inteded to be a cliff hanger, lol. It'll be up sometime this week.....finals week for us seniors, lol

[Biondo Sorto]

Here's that long awaited add!! Enjoy!!

Carmen sighed as she started to drive toward Kaylynn’s house. Renee was in the car and looking out the window. Ever since the car ride, it had been a long awkward ride. Paul was in earlier and that was even more awkward. Carmen started to say something, but fought against it. There was no use in starting the inevitable. If anything, Renee would start something up. They pulled up to Kaylynn’s house and Carmen turned off the engine.
“Guess we should go inside. It’s getting late and we’re already running behind.�
“Yeah, I wonder why.� Renee commented. Carmen gave her a look and got out the car. She wasn’t going to provoke the matter any more. They both walked up to Kaylynn’s steps before Carmen knocked on the door. A couple of seconds later Casey opened the door.
“Hey!! What took so long?�
“Paul.� both answered uneasily.
“That man. Well, come in the….uhh, arrangements are here.�
“Arrangements? What arrangements. You said that Kaylynn needed me.�
“She does.� Carmen said, grabbing Renee and pushing her through the house.
“For what?�
“She never mentioned.�
“Are you sure?�
“Yeah…..†� Carmen looked at Casey who continued to giggle.
“The one in red is cute.�
“Who’s cute? Guys?� Renee started to whine as Carmen pushed her into the living room.
“Why don’t you turn around and see for yourself.� She smiled, looking at Casey. Renee turned around and screamed. There were three guys, in thongs, already dancing around Kaylynn, Brittny, and Krissy.
“The bride to be is over here.� Casey yelled, pointing toward Renee who was already trying to run out the door. Carmen anticipated the move and grabbed her.
“Your going to have to be kind guys, she’s shy!!� Carmen laughed, pushing Renee toward two of the three.
“Oh my lord, oh my lord, oh my lord….� Renee mumbled as they pushed her down into a chair and started to dance for her.
“OMG. Uhh…..can we get an uhh….can to contain…uhh, oh my gosh. Oh my gosh, guys….� Renee started to squirm uneasily in her chair as a guy started to give her a lap dance.
Carmen couldn’t help but smile. Despite their differences, she found this to be very amusing. Even so, she still felt crappy. She excused herself from the girls and headed outside to the patio. She needed to think, alone, with a clear head. The moon had risen and the sky was full of stars. She fell back in a lawn chair and closed her eyes. What was it that was making her feel this crappy? She thought through the day, but all she could remember was Drew. Drew smiling and laughing with her. Drew flirting back with her, and more so, Drew just being himself. She opened her eyes and sighed. That was what it was. She didn’t need a shrink to tell her. She was still stuck on Drew. It hurt to see him in so much pain over her. Maybe she had over-reacted. She shook her head, thinking of Lea showing up. At the way Drew’s face beamed over her. He couldn’t love two people. He choose Lea. She had to allow that, even if it hurt her.
“What you thinking about?�
Carmen quickly got up from her seat to see Renee. She sighed and shook her head.
“Nothing really. I was actually just re-capturing the day.�
She sat back down and closed her eyes.
“Oh,� Renee commented.
“Which part? The part with you and Paul or the part with you and Drew.�
“Actually the part in the…..� she stopped and opened an eye.
“What are you getting at?�
“Want me to be blunt.�
“It be nice for once.�
“I know about you and Drew.�
“Oh, who doesn’t.� she sighed, closing her eye again.
“You and Drew in the parking lot.�
Carmen was silent until she asked,
“How?�
“I was out in my car looking for a spatula that had fallen between the seats. I saw you two.�
“Did you?�
“I also saw the way you both interacted.�
“Interesting.�
“And how much you flirted with him.�
“Oh please Renee.� She opened her eyes and looked at her.
“Don’t deny that you flirted.�
“I….okay, but it’s a bad habit. I flirt with everyone.�
“You never flirted with anyone when you were with Drew.�
“That doesn’t count.�
“Oh and this does.�
“Yes.�
“Please get off your high pedestal and admit that you like Drew. You like DREW!!� Renee yelled.
“I will when you stop trying to push us together. You and Nick.�
“Well maybe if you would get over yourself we would!!�
“How can I risk that? You might not ever have to worry about it because the man always loved you. But what about me? I have a lot to risk too.�
“Like...?�
“What if-“
“Stop with the sob story we already know.�
Carmen looked at her and narrowed her eyes.
“Well it’s not like everyone wasn’t tired of yours. Face it; your case was just as pathetic as mine.�
“Fine.�
“Fine.�
They sat in angry silence and Carmen growled to herself.
“I’m tempted to go over and break Nick’s stupid bachelorette party so I can tell him too. It’s not enough to trust her to do it. She might twist the story and-“
“What did you say?�
“What do you mean what did I say. I’m grumbling to myself. What I say is irrelevant tomorrow. Don’t worry about it.� She said, still annoyed over the small fight.
“Right….†� Renee sat in silence contemplating whether to ask Carm or not when the question popped out.
“Is Nick having a bachelorette party?�
Carmen looked at her surprised, then said,
“Well, it would only make sense, you did have one and….wait…no. No, no, no, no, no. No. No.�
“Are you sure?�
“ No. I mean yes. Yes I’m sure.�
Renee thought about this and called Nick on his phone.
“What are you doing now?�
“Calling Nick.�
“Why?�
“Because I need to know.�
“Know what.�
“If he’s having girls over.�
Carmen shook her head as Renee got Nick’s machine.
“We have to go.�
“What? But the girls…�
“They can wait.�
“Oh Carmen, what have you’ve done.� Carmen sighed as she followed Renee out of the house.

Drew was in the guest room watching TV when Nick walked in.
“What do you want?�
“Well the guys are all downstairs watching the game and your isolating yourself up here. Wanted to know what was up.�
“Needed some alone time.�
“To what.�
“To think.�
“Of Carmen?�
“Yes, of Carmen.�
“What about her?�
“I think you guys should ease off her case.�
“What!!�
“I know about you and Renee. You guys pushing us together only makes us being together more awkward. Besides, if I have to endure her and her lover boy Paul again I think I’m going to puke.�
Nick chuckled as he sat beside her.
“He was trying too much. After that encounter with you and her in the parking lot, he was scared.�
“Yeah right he…wait, how do you know about the thing in the parking lot.�
Nick smiled and put his hands behind his head.
“That’s for me to know and you to find out.�
“Yeah right. Renee somehow found out.�
Nick chuckled and stretched out his arms.
“Your right. But she only saw you too together. And her flirting.�
“Flirting I…..she wasn’t.�
“Aww, you know it Drew.�
“Maybe. Can you take that?�
“For now. Drew, I think you should talk to her about your feelings.�
“When?�
“I don’t know. Just sometime soon. Confess everything to her. From your love to Lea. She might just do the same for you.�
“Maybe,� he smiled.
“Maybe then I can propose to her.�
“Drew, you live on a world of your own.�
“And you continue to stay dormant in a cave. It’s not my fault I expand my thoughts.�
“Right….you gonna stay up here and mope like a girl or are you going to go downstairs?�
Drew thought about this as the doorbell rang.
“I think I might go down with you.�
“Who can that be? I’m not expecting anyone.�
“You should….go down and see. The guys probably got the door though.�
“Yeah…� they walked out the room and down the stairs to be greeted by go-go girls.
“What the hell….?�
“Are you the husband to be?� a girl in pink asked.
“Yeah…..†�
“This is the one girls!!�
Nick was pushed onto the couch as the girls started to do a number. Drew didn’t know which was funnier, the look on Nick’s face when the girls were dancing for him or the look on his face when Renee busted in.
“Nick I just-“
She stopped dead in her tracks as someone turned off the music in the background. Everyone was quiet until Carmen started to laugh.
“You’re laughing!! You knew and you’re laughing!!!�
“Sworn to secrecy. And besides….its funny!!� she laughed some more along with the some of the other guys, including Nick.
“Oh no mister!!! We need to talk!!,� she grabbed Nick by the collar and started to drag him outside, mumbling
“Dancing girls in their go-go outfits trying to look provocative for my husband. And the nerve….�
Drew looked at Carmen who looked back at him.
“Just tell Renee I had to go. I don’t want to be around with the fire hits. Just tell her uhh….Paul needed me or something.�
“I’ll†¦.be sure too.â€Â�
“Thanks. See ya around.�
“Bye.� Drew sighed, watching her walk away.
“Score again, Drew. Its now Paul 2, Drew 0.�

[a7xnsl98d]

It's getting better and better! Can't wait for more! :Big Grin:

[a7xnsl98d]

Ok! What gives? What happened with the story, girls? Still waiting.... :Cool:

[Kristen07]

Don't worry Tasha, we haven't forrgotten. I'm just super slow at getting the next add out because while i have it planned in my head, it com,es out crap when I write it. Hopefully you'll see something soon, though. :)

[a7xnsl98d]

:Cool: That's why I haven't wrote anything that I want to get published in awhile. I just can't get it out right!

[Kristen07]

Here's the next one, y'all :)

Renee couldn’t believe Carmen’s nerve. She knew all of this was in good fun, but that hit an emotional nerve that shouldn’t be touched. The lap dance was embarrassing enough; this was absolutely mortifying. “Grr… I could kill Carmen about now� Renee said through gritted teeth.
“Ren, this was all in good fun. Calm down�
“I know, but she knows what I went through with Jessica. It’s not funny. I don’t mind that you were looking at them, just as long as you know where your heart is�
“I enjoyed it, I’m not going to lie. But, it’s nothing, Renee. It means nothing like you do. Are we going to have to go through the paranoid conversation again?� Nick had a eyebrow raised.
“No way…dammit… why do I always do this?� She put her hands on her head, about to explode.
Nick took them in his and began to caress them. “It’s fine, baby. That’s the way you are. Calm down, it’s ok�
She took a deep breath. “I’m so sorry, Nick. You’re such a crazy person for wanting to marry someone like me�
“Renee, you’re not paranoid, just over cautious. Some people may think I’m stupid for coming back to you after what’s gone on the past few months. But I don’t care because I know what I feel about you�
“I know you do� Renee paused “I really shouldn’t be yelling at you right now because I got a lap dance by a male stripper�
“Really? I bet he can’t make love to you like I can� Nick said with a mischievous grin on his face.
Renee shook her head “There is no other man in the world who’s a better lover than you, Nicholas�
“Do you want to go inside and let me work my magic?�
She laughed “No, there are guests. And I thought we agreed to hold off on sex till we get married?�
“You’re right, we did� Nick looked slightly defeated. “Let’s go back inside before they think we’ve killed each other or something� The couple walked back in the house, hand in hand.

Drew, Justin, Jeff and a few other guys were sitting in the living room. “What gives you two? Renee looked like she was about to kill about 5 minutes ago.� Drew exclaimed.
“The storm blew over quickly, Drew. Where’s Carmen?�
“Paul needed her for something so she left�
“Oh grr… she is going to get it next time I see her. Anyway, I’m so sorry for spoiling everyone’s fun so why don’t we all just go clubbing as a big group?� Renee was blushing red.
“It’s ok, Renee. Let’s go� Justin said.

The huge group arrived at the club and dispersed in different directions. Renee hid in a corner with Kayleigh and Casey because she was embarrassed about bursting in.
“Don’t worry about it, Ren. It was a mess up. Go dance with your husband to be and forget about it�
“I know I should, but I can’t. All those guys…� She sighed “Yeah, I just don’t want to think about it. Nick’s so crazy�
“No he’s not! He’s sexy, smart, sensitive, loving, giving, and a genuine guy. He’s the idea of perfection for a husband� Kayleigh argued.
“I mean, to marry me. I got so many imperfections and I’m so flippin paranoid even after Jessica is gone for good. Maybe I should be my own therapist�
Kayleigh and Casey burst out laughing “That’s good, Renee. But do we really have to convince you again?� Casey asked
Renee shook her head. “No, you don’t.� She sighed, looking at her hands. “Where’s Brad, Kayleigh?�
“He’s out here somewhere… I may go have a search party for him, as should you for your fiancé� Kayleigh told her.
Just then Brad approached their table. “Hey ladies. Kay, I have looking all over this place for you. You want to grind it out on the floor?�
“Absolutely� She took Brad’s hand and they walked away.
“Come on Renee, you should be happy and cuddling with Nick. You’re getting married in less than a week�
“I know, but I’m embarrassed about what happened at his condo�
“Why, what happened?�
Renee recounted the past hour.
“Well, I can see why but it happened. Every one gets embarrassed every once in a while. You just gotta shake it off�
“I know.� Renee sighed.
They talked for a little while and then they saw Nick walking towards them.
“There you are babe, I have been looking all over for you�
“Yeah, I’m here� They kissed and Casey awkwardly went out of the way.
“Have you been avoiding me?� Nick asked her.
She shook her head. “No. I’m just embarrassed about earlier�
“Don’t worry about that, honey. It happened. Now shall we dance?�
“Sure, why not? I’ll so do a sexier dance for you than those girls did� Renee had a sexy grin on her face.
“Hmm… sounds delicious. Let’s go� Nick took Renee’s hand and they headed out onto the floor.

[a7xnsl98d]

Very good! Enjoying it even more with every add...

[Biondo Sorto]

the long awaited add!!!

Carmen had heard about the club, but she hadn’t really wanted to go. She couldn’t be with Drew two minutes without getting butterflies in her stomach. Instead she went home for a quiet evening, watching sappy romantic movies and eating junk food. It wasn’t until her third movie that the tears that fell from her eyes were for Drew and not for the obvious lovey-dovey ending. She missed him, she realized, and didn’t like the feelings he gave her. She wanted to call him up and confess everything but ended up falling asleep on her couch.

The next morning she woke up to the phone ringing. It was Paul, and he was wondering if they should have dinner later on.
“I can’t,� she told him as she struggled to shave her legs and change the page of her magazine at the same time.
“It’s the rehearsal dinner.�
“Well…..what about lunch?�
She contemplated this. She had many dreams about her and Drew the previous night and at the moment, seemed uncomfortable about being around Paul. She heard herself reluctantly agreeing, however, and sighed as she hung up the phone. She was about to head off to meet Paul when her phone rang. Out of instinct she ran toward it, hoping whoever it was on the other line wasn’t that important.
“Hello?�
“May I speak to Carmen Opio?�
“This is her.� She pulled up her purse strapped and looked down at her watch. She really didn’t want to be late this once.
“Carmen, it’s your dad.�
Carmen’s heart stopped as she icily stated,
“Hello Tobias.�
She heard his sigh and shook her head. She didn’t need this right now.
“Carmen….â€à ‚Â�
“What?�
“I want to talk to you about something.�
Carmen rolled her eyes and sighed into the receiver,
“What, for heavens name, could that be. I don’t have any scheduled outings for you to cancel on so….?�
“Listen, I know I should be telling you this face to face but Joyce and the kids…�
“Joyce. Of course.�
She hated hearing the name and cringed when he said it.
“Listen. I don’t want you to miss out on love because of me.�
“Oh, please don’t lecture me about love right now. You, of all people….., who told you?!�
“Pablo. Carmen, I know what a big disappointment I was to you...�
“Hell yeah you were a big disappointment. Every year on my birthday I waited for you in my pretty pink bows and matching dress, just waiting for you to pull up like you used to, with a smile on your face. And you never came. You stopped coming after that Joyce stunt. Then she got pregnant and you choose those bastard children over us!?�
“No Carmen I don’t think that was necessary…�
“NECESSARY!!! It IS necessary!!!! You never once considered my feelings. Never. I loved you. I loved you even when my mother told me to forget about you. And still, now, I love you. But you could care less about me. All I wanted was my papa! And you never came!�
The tears she had contained over the years were starting to pour out.
“And now, I can’t even love the only man that’s ever loved me back because you haunt me, even now, as an adult!!!�
She kicked off her heeled slid-on’s and closed her eyes.
“Are you done?�
“No…..yesâ€à ‚¦.I don’t know.â€ÂÂ�
She was silent and she heard her father’s voice.
“I never wanted to abandon you Carmen. You or Pablo. I was confused about your mother, she had done something to me and I felt she needed a taste of her own medicine. I never meant to fall in love with Joyce. But it happened. I wanted to erase all of my prior sins because I was ashamed at how childish I had become. But children, I’m figuring out, aren’t things to be erased.�
“No, there not. We weren’t� She said, wiping away a couple of her tears.
“I needed you. Me and Pablo.�
“I started to understand that when we started to speak again.�
“Is that all? I have somewhere to be.�
She heard him sigh again and whispered,
“It’s going to take time for me to trust you again Tobias.�
“I can understand that. But think of what I said. Don’t throw away your life away because of me. From what I heard he’s a respectable man.�
Carmen gave a soft smile and whispered,
“Good bye Tobias.�
“Good bye Carmen. I love you.�
She slowly hung up the phone and sighed. She knew what she had to do. She just didn’t know if she could do it.

Drew looked around patiently for Carmen. He didn’t know why he had talked himself into waiting for her outside the restaurant, but he was standing, holding an orchid, waiting for Carmen to arrive. He almost gave up and started to turn around when he heard a soft click of heels and just knew it was her. He turned around and smiled as she walked up, getting off her cell phone and fixing her lilac dress. She was surprised to see Drew, but gave him a somewhat soft smile.
“Hello Andrew.�
He tried not to let him irk him to hear his full name instead of his common one, but smiled anyways. At least she had addressed him first.
“Hello Carmen. You look……beautiful.â⠂¬Â�
And she did. Her brown hair was swooped up in a top bun, a few strands cascading down her back. Her lilac sun dress was of lace and went with her complexion. Her eyes were shining and she looked genuinely happy.
She was taken aback by that and blushed.
“Thank you. You look nice as well.�
He cleared his throat.
“This is for you.�
He handed her the long flower and she smiled.
“Thanks. Is everyone inside?�
“Yeah,� he held his arm out.
“My lady.�
She hesitated, and then took it, walking into the restaurant with him.
Everyone was quiet as they watched the two walk in, and then sit down next to each other.
Nick mouthed something to Drew but Drew didn’t catch it; Carmen had suddenly asked him something and he turned his attention back to her.

Renee smiled as she watched her best friend interacting with her soon to be brother in law. She didn’t know what brought it on to Carmen, but she was just as surprised.
Carmen was fully aware of all the attention they were getting.
“They think that we were the one’s getting married.� She whispered to Drew during the middle of their course. Drew wanted to say, “Aren’t we?�, but knew that this wasn’t the case and despite their casual conversation, something was still holding them back. And that something was Paul. He had called five times already during their dinner and Carmen had given him short, curt answers.
“He is starting to bug me.� Carmen sighed after the sixth call. Drew laughed and shook his head.
“He’s scared he’s going to lose you.� He said, trying to make light of the situation.
“We’ve already talked about that.� Carmen brushed it off and Drew shook his head.
“I was scared of losing you too.� He softly added.
Carmen quickly looked toward him and shook her head.
“What were you going to ask that day in the parking lot?�
Drew looked at her dumbfounded, and then took a drink out of his water remembering their previous encounter.
“I was going to ask what happened to us.�
Carmen shrugged her shoulders and took a bite out of her side salad.
“Lea.� She bluntly answered later.
“Why did she change us? She never got involved with us.�
“But you and her baby did. It still is a problem Drew, whether you want to ignore it or not.�
He sighed at her stubbornness and grabbed her hand underneath the table.
“I haven’t been able to sleep right since we broke it off,� he softly whispered.
“My dreams are haunted by you.�
“I don’t want you to linger on me Drew. You deserve so much better.�
Drew shook his head.
“I deserve you.�
“I don’t think your listening to what you’re saying.�
“I know. I thought about all I was going to say to you tonight.�
Carmen nodded as their main course meal came. She had switched their conversation and Drew decided to let it go, when something flashed across my mind.
“Carmen, I forgot to tell you. Someone’s coming tonight.�
“What do you mean?� Carmen asked. And, as if on queue, Lea walked in the door with Drew’s mother. Drew looked at her and sighed as Carmen turned around. Her eyes started to tear.
“It was nice talking to you Drew. I should give up my seat to your wife. It’s the courteous thing to do.�
She dropped her napkin on the table and walked outside, ignoring Drew’s words and the looks everyone was giving her. A couple of minutes later she heard someone behind her.
“Renee, I really don’t want to talk about it.� Carmen said, trying to brush off the situation.
“It’s not Renee.�
Carmen turned around to the deep voice and shook her head at Nick.
“Hi Nicholas.�
He smiled as he walked beside her, looking up at the sky.
“Drew’s right.�
“What do you mean?�
“You do address people by their formal name when you try not to get close to them.�
Carmen didn’t comment on it and Nick sighed.
“I’m not trying to make enemies here Carmen. I just want to talk.�
“About Drew no doubt. You guys push us together any more we’ll both explode. I know I’m close to it.�
Nick chuckled and pushed his hands into his pocket.
“I never wanted any of this to happen.�
“It’s not your fault.�
“But its not Drew’s either. Or Lea’s.�
Carmen was silent and Nick turned to her.
“I want was best for both of you. But you shouldn’t assume Drew will leave you.�
“I try not to think about it. Even tonight…but it lingers in the back of my mind. My father not being there haunts me. I don’t want to be the reason why Drew might have to decide.�
“You wouldn’t make him do that would you?� he asked surprised. Carmen didn’t strike him to be that kind of girl.
“No, but Lea might.�
“She wouldn’t.� Nick said assuringly.
“Things change with a baby Nick. Maybe not now, but in the future. Drew can’t deny his child and I couldn’t allow that. But by that time I’d be in so deep….I rather hurt myself now than later.�
“Is that why you ran to Paul. You knew he couldn’t hurt you.�
This time Carmen chuckled and nodded.
“Renee’s found herself a smart boy.�
“And Drew fell for a beautiful, sweet woman. You should just let him in.�
“It’s easier said than done. I was going to try tonight…….Paul wasn’t helping though.�
“And neither did Lea I’m guessing.�
“It hurts to know that she’s carrying his baby…..instead of me.�
“Is that another reason why you’re hurt? You’re jealous?� This also shocked Nick. He really didn’t know Carmen as well as he thought he did.
“I was at first. I can’t control fate.�
She dug in her purse for something she hadn’t touched for a year. She found her pack of cigarettes and got one out. She lit it and slowly inhaled one. Nick was surprised. Carmen was throwing a ton of things at him at once tonight. Renee was right about her being spontaneous.
“You smoke?�
“I’m not 100 percent addicted. My character in my soap smoked and I couldn’t rid myself of the habit. I only do it when I’m stressed. Though I haven’t touched a cigarette in a year.�
“My brother got you to smoke eh?�
“Yeah.�
She threw down the cigarette and stepped on it.
“I can’t stand it, the smell appalls me. But since lunchtime today I’ve been smoking this pack.� She shrugged.
“I hate smokers. So does Drew.�
“I figured as much.�
She look toward Nick and gave a slight smile.
“Renee really is lucky. You’re a wonderful person Nick. And you’re not so bad to look at either.�
“Are you flirting with me?� Nick asked in surprise, and then started laughing.
“You’re not so bad yourself but I’m in love with Renee.�
“So am I. I wasn’t hitting on you, don’t worry. I’m too stuck on one Lachey to mess with two.�
“I would hope.�
They laughed again and Nick finally said.
“Just give him a chance.�
“Make my friend happy. Never give her any misconceptions about you guys love.�
“Hey that whole Jessica thing…�
“I know, I know,� she cut him off.
“Renee can over-react at times. But just get her side of the story. Her ex put her through some….stuff to say the least, I’m sure you know. And you weren’t all that convincing trying to be civil to Jess knowing what