Nick arrived at his bandmates nightclub, Tabu. He spotted Howie in the VIP section with their other bandmates, AJ, Brian, and Kevin. He went over to them.

       Hey, whats up, Nick said.

       Nick, we have to have a talk with you, Brian said.

       About what? Nick asked sitting down.

       Well, first, we have a band that plays here and we want you to watch them and see what you think of Hayley, Brian said.

       Whos Hayley? Nick asked.

       The guitar player, well, one of them, she has brown hair with blond streaks, Howie said.

       We are looking for a new guitar player, Kevin said.

       Why do we need another guitar player? Nick asked.

       So that we have a new sound, Kevin said.

       I see, so how do you know about this girl? Nick asked.

       Howie has listened to her play last night, AJ said.

       Shes awesome, Nick, she has talent, she has what it takes, Howie said.

       Live from Tabu, here is Pink Slip! John announced. The guys watched the band play. Howie told Nick which one was Hayley and Nick looked at her and he just stared. She played a guitar solo and he was blown away. After the band was done playing, they got their stuff together. Kevin went over to Hayley and introduced himself and brought her over to the table.

       Guys, this is Hayley, Hayley, this is Nick, Brian, Howie, and AJ, Kevin said.

       Oh my gosh, I cant believe Im meeting you guys, Hayley said as she sat down at the chair.

       Well, we wanted to meet you, and offer you something, Howie said.

       What? Hayley asked.

       We need a guitarist for our band, and we have heard you play and we would like you to be a part of our band, Kevin said.

       There are stuff that needs to be signed but we want you in our band, you are good at the guitar, not good, great, awesome, Howie said.

       You want me to be a part of your band, Hayley said.

       Yes, we do, you are talented and you have what it takes, AJ said. Hayley looked at the table.

       I never thought I would get asked to join a band by the Backstreet Boys, I never thought I would get this far, I love playing in clubs, but to play on a big stage in front of screaming fans, I dont know if I can do that, Hayley said.

       Hayley, we really want you in our band, you are amazing with the guitar and that is what we are looking for, Kevin said.

       Can I think about it? Hayley asked.

       Sure, Kevin said. She went over to her bandmates. Nick couldnt stop staring. He felt someone nudge him. He looked at Brian. Brian was smiling.

       You got it bad for her, dont you, Brian said quietly.

       Yeah, I do, she is the one for me, I know it, shes so beautiful, Nick said quietly.

       Nicks got a crush, Brian said.

       I think he does, AJ said. Hayley came back over.

       Ill do it, Hayley said.

       Thats great, thank you, Kevin said.

       If me and my band can be one of the opening acts, Hayley said. The guys looked at each other.

       You got a deal, Kevin said.

Three weeks later, everything was set. Hayley arrived at the studio for practice with her band. Nick, Howie, AJ, Kevin, and Brian were there waiting.

       Nick, Brian, Howie, AJ, and Kevin, this Mike, Jack, Karissa, Ally, and Mark, my band, Hayley said.

       Hi, the guys said.

       Hi, Mark said. Mike, Jack, Karissa, and Ally said hi.

       Okay, on the tour, you guys will be first, so that Hayley can have time to relax before she goes onstage with us, Kevin said.

       Okay, Mark said. Kevin, Howie, Nick, AJ, and Brian went to their practice room.

       Hayley, you are so lucky, Karissa said.

       I know, Nick wont stop staring at me, Hayley said.

       I think he likes you, Ally said.

       You think so? Hayley asked.

       Girl, a guy doesnt stare at you for anything else, he likes you, Karissa said.

       I hope I play good onstage, I hope Im not where Nick will be most of the time, Hayley said. What she didnt know was that Nick was standing behind her. Karissa and Ally didnt notice.

       Hayley, Karissa said.

       Im serious, girls, I hope Nick is on the other side of the stage, Hayley said. Nick quietly walked away and down the hall. He went into a empty room and shut the door and leaned against the door and took a deep breath. He figured she wouldnt like him. She didnt want him near her onstage. There was a knock at the door. Nick moved away and opened the door and saw Brian.

       Hey Frack, you okay, Brian asked.

       I just heard Hayley tell Karissa and Ally that she doesnt want me near her onstage, that she hopes that Im on the other side of the stage, Nick said.

       Oh man, Frack, Im sorry, Brian said.

       Why cant anyone like me? Nick asked.

       People do like you, Brian said.

       Like who, Nick said.

       Everyone, me, the guys, your family, Brian said.

            I want Hayley, Brian, I really like her, I know shes the one for me, but she doesnt like me, Nick said. What they didnt know was that Hayley was standing outside the door listening to everything.

       Frack, Im sorry, Brian said. Hayley peeked in and saw Brian wrap his arm around Nick and hug him. Nick wiped his eyes and closed his eyes. Hayley went back down the hall. She ran into Ally and Karissa.

       Hayley? Ally asked.

       Nick thinks I dont want to be near him because I dont like him, god, I like him a lot, hes the one for me, Hayley said.

       Then tell him that, Ally said.

       I cant, too scared, I know he likes me and all, but I cant talk to him, Hayley said.

       Well play a song and dedicate it to him, Ally said.

       Which one, Hayley said.

       Ultimate, Karissa said.

       Yeah, okay, Hayley said. They went to get ready. Hayley found Kevin.

       Kevin, tell Nick that Ultimate is dedicated to him, Hayley said.

       Which one is Ultimate? Kevin asked.

       The one I sing, Hayley said.

       Okay, Kevin said. He went to find Nick as Hayley and her band went onstage.

Chapter 2

Kevin, Nick, and Brian came up to AJ and Howie, who were watching the screens backstage. AJ took the mic.

       Performing for the first time on tour, the first opening act, Pink Slip! AJ said. They performed two songs. Hayley stepped in front of the microphone in the middle and they performed Ultimate. Kevin told Nick it was dedicated to him. He listened to it and smiled. After they were done, they came backstage and Hayley saw Nick looking at her.

       Nick, lets go get ready, Kevin said.

       Can I talk to Hayley first? Nick asked.

       You can talk to her after the show, Kevin said as he pulled Nick down to the hall to the dressing rooms.

Hayley watched Nick go and sat down. Ally and Karissa sat down beside her.

       I wanted to talk to him, Hayley said.

       Youll get to after the show, Ally said.

       I hope so, Hayley said.

       We can talk now, Nick said coming up to her dressing in his outfit for the show.

       Did you like the song? Hayley asked.

       Yes, I did, Nick said.

       Nick, I never said I didnt like you, its just I do like you, a lot, and if you are in front of me onstage when Im playing, I wont play good because Ill just stare at you and wouldnt concentrate, Hayley said.

       I understand, but you will have to because where you are onstage is on my side of the stage, thats how it is, Nick said.

       Hayley, just play and pretend you are in a club, Ally said.

       But Im not in a club, Im in a venue with a thousand screaming fans, Hayley said.

       How would Nick be distracting, hell be too busy performing for the fans to be a distraction, AJ said.

       Just watching him would be a distraction, Hayley said.

       You like him, dont you, AJ said.

       Yes, she does, and I like her, okay, AJ, Nick said looking at him. AJ held up his hands.

       Okay, AJ said.

       Hayley, I was wondering if you would like to go out after the show, Nick said.

       Sure, Hayley said.

       Um, we are leaving for the next city after the show, Kevin said. Hayley frowned.

       How about riding on my bus with me and we can just hang out, Nick said.

       That could work, Hayley said. Ally and Karissa looked at each other.

       Hayley, its time for you to go on, Kevin said. Hayley got her guitar and went out with the band.

Three weeks went by. Nick and Hayley got to know each other. Karissa and Howie had started dating. So have Ally and AJ. Hayley, Ally, and Karissa were sitting backstage talking while the guys were in a meeting.

       AJ is so sweet to me, Ally said.

       So is Howie, I know where he gets his nickname, Sweet D, Karissa said. Hayley smiled.

       So how are things with you and Nick, are you two a couple yet? Ally asked.

       Not yet, we are just taking things slow and easy, we are not officially a couple, although I wish we were, Hayley said.

       Girl, you need to do a little seduction, Ally said.

       I dont want to rush things and Im waiting until after marriage to take that step, Hayley said.

       Yeah, yeah, but he is so hot, Hayley, go after him, I know you want him, Ally said.

       I do want him, but I want to wait until after Im married, Hayley said.

       Okay, okay, okay, Ally said. Nick came out with Howie and AJ behind him. AJ and Ally went off on their own as did Howie, and Karissa. Nick sat down beside Hayley.

       Hey girl, Nick said. Hayley smiled at him.

       Hey yourself, Hayley said.

       Wanna go do something? Nick asked.

       Sure, Hayley said. He held out his hand and she took it and they went out the door and walked down the street. They went to the beach and held hands.

       Nice night, Hayley said.

       Yeah, Nick said.

       You okay? Hayley asked looking at him.

       I need to ask you something, Nick said.

       What is it, Hayley said.

       Will you be my girlfriend? Nick asked.

       I thought youd never ask, yes, I will, Hayley said smiling.

       You thought I would never ask, girl, are you crazy, you know I like you, a lot, well, now I have fallen for you, Nick said cupping her face in his hands.

       I have fallen for you, too, Nick, I know you are the one for me, I always have known, Hayley said. Nick smiled and leaned down and kissed her lips softly. The kiss deepened and they held each other as they kissed.

Chapter 3

Nick walked down the hall to his dressing room. Someone grabbed him and pulled him into a room and he saw Brian.

       Brian, whats going on, Nick said.

       Leighanne broke up with me, I have to go talk to her now, can you cover for me, Brian said.

       I cant cover for you during the show, Frick, Nick said.

       Nick, please, just sing my parts, okay, I have to talk to her now, Brian said.

       Kevin is going to be mad, Nick said.

       I dont care, I have to go to Leighanne, Brian said. He ran out of the room. Nick came out just as Hayley came down the hall.

       Hey baby, whats wrong, Hayley said.

       Brian just left to go after Leighanne, I have to cover for him, god, Kevin is going to hit the ceiling, Nick said.

       What am I going to do? Kevin asked coming up to them.

       Um, Brian just left, Leighanne broke up with him and he went after her, Im suppose to sing his parts during the show, Nick said.

       How could you let him go! Kevin yelled.

       Kevin, don't yell at him, Hayley said.

       He left before I could, Kev, he ran out the door, he doesnt care if you are mad or not but he has to go to her, I can sing his parts, man, Nick said.

       We arent a group without him, there is no way we can go on without him, Kevin said.

       Kev, we can, Nick said.

       Nick, just stop, okay, we cant go on without Brian, how can we explain his absence, Kevin said.

       Family emergency, Nick said.

       If it was that, I would be gone, too, Kevin said

       He got sick? Nick asked. Kevin glared at him.

       Dammit, Nick, I dont want to hear your excuses for him, we are not going on, Kevin said.

       Do you hear all of them out there, Kevin, a lot of fans came to see us, we cant postpone or cancel, if we do that, we wont have any fans left, if you keep this up, me, AJ, and Howie will go on without YOU, Nick said as he took Hayleys hand and walked off. Kevin stood there.

Nick and Hayley found AJ and Howie and told them what was going on. Kevin came up to them and told them that they were going on.

After the show, the guys went to shower while Ally, Karissa, and Hayley waited for them. Nick came out while the girls were talking and they didnt notice him.

       Hayley, what if Nick finds out that you are just using him to further your career, Karissa said. Nicks heart sank and he walked off down the hall to his dressing room.

       I dont know what you are talking about, Karissa, but Im not using Nick for anything, I am in love with him, he is the one for me, he is the guy for me, if I didnt play the guitar, if I didnt have any talent, I would still be with him because I have feelings for him, I care about him, I actually care about him, Hayley said.

       I know you do, girl, Im just kidding, Karissa said.

       Dont kid around about that, if Nick heard what you said, he would think Im using him, and he would end things with me, if he does, I dont know what Id do, I cant go through another heartache in the love department, Hayley said.

       We know, Hayley, Ally said. Karissa nodded. Kevin came up to them.

       Hayley, can I talk to you? Kevin asked. Hayley followed him down the hall to his dressing room. Kevin closed the door.

       What is it, Kevin? Hayley asked.

       Are you using Nick? Kevin asked.

       No, Im not, why do you ask that? Hayley asked.

       Nick overheard you, Ally, and Karissa talking, and he heard what Karissa said, Kevin said.

       Kevin, I swear to you that Im not using Nick, she was just kidding, I know it wasnt funny and I told her that, I couldnt do that to anybody, I swear, I already had my heartbroken before, god knows what would happen to me if it happened again, Hayley said. Kevin sat her down.

       What happened? Kevin asked sitting beside her.

       My ex, he didnt like it that I was a virgin and chose to save myself for marriage, so he went out and found a girl and slept with her countless times, one time, he decided to bring her to my place, and sleep with her in my bed and I walked in on them, Hayley said. Kevin wrapped an arm around her.

       Are you still a virgin? Kevin asked.

       Yes, I am, Im still saving myself for marriage, god, Kevin, I hope Nick doesnt break up with me, I couldnt take it, Hayley said. Kevin hugged her.

       Ill talk to him, you go on out to your bus with the girls, Kevin said. Hayley nodded and went out and saw Nick talking to Karissa and Ally. She walked past them and went out to her bus and got into her bunk and laid there. She heard footsteps and she looked up and saw Nick.

       Karissa told me the truth, I know you arent using me, Nick said getting into the bunk with her.

       Thats right, Im not, Hayley said. He pulled her close.

       You are not going to lose me, okay, and I will never cheat on you, Nick said.

       Kevin told you about my ex, Hayley said.

       Yeah, I promise with all my heart that I will never do that to you, I will wait for you, you are worth waiting for, but I know you are the one for me, Nick said kissing her neck.

       I could never do anything to hurt you, Nick, you are the one for me, Hayley said. He kissed her deeply. She moaned as he held her close. They heard voices and broke apart and Nick got out of the bunk with Hayley behind him. Karissa, Ally, Mark, Mike and Jack got on the bus.

       I better get to my bus, Nick said.

       Ill see you later, Hayley said. He kissed her hungrily. He hugged her and got off the bus and went to his bus.

Chapter 4

They arrived at the next city and checked into a hotel. Nick came over to Hayley.

       Hey, want to share a suite with me? Nick asked hugging her from behind.

       Sure, Hayley said. Brian came in looking exhausted and heartbroken. Hayley looked at Nick and he nodded and went over to Brian and talked to him. Kevin saw Brian and watched as Brian collapsed against Nick. Hayley went over there and talked to them and came over to Kevin.

       Leighanne used him to further her career, Hayley said.

       Damn her, Kevin said.

       Take it easy on him, Kev, hes heartbroken, Hayley said.

       Im going to, hes family, Kevin said. Brian came over.

       Hey cuz, Im sorry for running out like that, Brian said.

       Come here, Kevin said hugging him. Brian cried on his shoulder.

       I loved her so much, and all she did was hurt me, Brian said.

       I know, cuz, we wont let her get away with it, Kevin said.

       What, Kev, Brian said.

       She will pay for what she did, Kevin said.

       Kevin, just let it go, Brian said.

            Brian, you are my cousin, she hurt you, I cant let her get away with it and be happy, she should be hurt too, Kevin said. He walked off. Brian looked at Hayley. She shrugged. Kevin came back and they went to the venue for practice. Hayley, Karissa, Ally, Mark, Mike, and Jack got up onstage and got their instrument together. They performed their songs. After they were done, they looked at Kevin.

       Practice one more time, and you can just relax until the show tonight, Kevin said. They practiced again and after they were done, they got offstage except Hayley.

       Do I go relax or do I need to stay up here? Hayley asked.

       Go relax, Hayley, Kevin said smiling at her. She went offstage and went backstage and sat with Ally and Karissa and talked with them. A blond girl came in.

       Is Nick here? she asked.

       Who are you? Hayley asked.

       Im Willa, his girlfriend, she said.

       You what!? Hayley said.

       Im his girlfriend, who are you, Willa said.

       Im Hayley, Im his girlfriend, Hayley said.

       Well, sorry, honey, but Nick and I never broke up, Willa said. Hayleys heart sank and she ran out the door. Ally and Karissa followed. Mark, Mike, and Jack sat there. Nick came backstage and looked around and saw Willa.

       What are you doing here, Willa, Nick said.

       I came to see you, Nicky, Willa said.

       Dont call me, Nicky, you bitch, get out, Nick said.

       But Nicky, I came to see you, we are dating, Willa said.

       We broke up, remember, you got your record deal and broke up with me, why bother coming back, unless, you lost your record deal, Nick said.

       I did, Willa said.

       Gee, too bad, Nick said. Mark called Hayley and told her to get back there.

       Nick, I really want to be with you again, Willa said.

       Too bad, Willa, I dont want you anymore, get the fuck out of my life, Nick said.

       I cant, I love you, Willa said.

       No you dont, you dont know what love is! Nick yelled. Hayley came in with Ally and Karissa behind her.

       I do, too, know what love is, I love you, Nick, always have! Willa said.

       No, you only love me because of what you can get for dating me, a fucking record deal, well, you can forget it, because you and I are over, FOREVER! Nick yelled,.

       Nick, I dont care about a record deal, anymore, I just want to be with you and make up for what I did to you! Willa said.

       Forget it, you hurt me, Willa, I have moved on, I dont have feelings for you anymore, I don't love you anymore, I dont even like you anymore! Nick said angrily.

       Nick, Willa said.

       Billy, get her out of here, Nick said.

       Nick, please, Im sorry for what I did, Willa said.

       Listen, honey, he said he didnt want to be with you, he said it was over, Im his girl now so beat it! Hayley said angrily.

       Look, honey, you can keep dreaming, he will always be mine, Willa said.

       Actually, shes right, Willa, Nick is with Hayley, so why not just give it up and move on, AJ said. Willa slapped Nick. Hayley slapped Willa and Willa jumped on her and they began to fight. Nick grabbed Hayley and pulled her away while Billy and Eddie grabbed Willa.

       Get her out of here! Nick said angrily. They took Willa out the door.

       Ill make sure shes not allowed anywhere near where we are, Kevin said. He went to find Jeff. Hayley pulled away and went to Nicks dressing room. She looked in the mirror and tried to clean herself up. Nick came in.

       Im sorry about that, Nick said.

       Its not your fault, Hayley said. Nick took the tissue and gently pressed it against her eyebrow.

       I dont want to lose you, Nick said.

       I dont want to lose you either, Hayley said. He kissed her hungrily.

       You never will, I love you, Hayley, Nick said.

       I love you, too, Hayley said with tears in her eyes.

       I just cant let you go, I just want to hold you forever, Nick said holding her close.

That night, after the show, Nick and Hayley went to their hotel suite. Nick closed the door and turned and Hayley jumped on him.

       I need you, Hayley said.

       Hayley, Nick said.

       Make me yours, Nick, please, Hayley said hugging him.

       Hayley, you said you wanted to wait until after marriage, Nick said.

       I cant wait any longer, Nick, I need you now, I want you to make love to me, please, make me yours! Hayley said.

       Hayley, Nick said.

       I mean it, Nick, please, I need you to make love to me, make me yours, be my first, Hayley said. Nick looked at her.

       Hayley, youll regret it, Nick said.

       The only thing Ill regret is if you dont make love to me, Hayley said.

       Hayley, you told me you wanted to wait until after you get married to take that step, Nick said. Hayley looked at him.

       Nick, please, make love to me, I cant wait that long, please make me yours forever, Hayley said.

Chapter 5

Nick let her down and walked around the room. Hayley stood there watching him. Tears fell down her cheeks.

       Hayley, you told me that you wanted to wait until you were married, I respect that, why the sudden change of heart, huh, what are you scared of? Nick asked.

       Im scared that Willa will do something to me, like hire a guy to kidnap me and Im scared that I will get raped, Hayley said as she stood there crying.

       You know I would not let anything happen to you, Nick said coming over and cupping her face in his hands.

       You dont know what would happen, Im scared that if I dont do this now, I will lose my virginity to some guy who is raping me, I want to lose my virginity to a guy that I love, and that is you, Nick, I love you and I want this, I know I do! Hayley said crying. Nick held her close.

       Baby, shhhh, Nick said. There was a knock at the door. Nick opened the door and saw Kevin.

       Everything okay? Kevin asked.

       No, Nick said. Kevin came in.

       Whats wrong? Kevin asked.

       Hayley wants me to make love to her, because shes scared that she will get raped, shes scared that Willa will come after her and hire some guy to kidnap Hayley and take her and rape her, Nick said.

       Hayley, honey, you know Nick will not let that happen, none of us will, there are bodyguards everywhere and no one will let anything happen to you, Kevin said.

       I know, but still, something could happen, Hayley said.

       How about you two get married so you can do it, Kevin said. Hayley looked at Nick.

       Theres an idea, Hayley said.

       Whoa, its too soon, Nick said.

       So? Kevin said.

       Kev, Nick said.

       I have no problem with it, Ill get a justice of the peace and the guys, Kevin said.

       Family? Nick asked.

       No time, Kevin said.

       This is ridiculous, Nick said.

       Nick, its a good idea, that way no one can tear us apart, Hayley said. Nick looked at her.

       I guess we could, and have a family wedding after the tour, Nick said.

       Marry me, Nick, Hayley said.

       Okay, okay, I will, Nick said hugging her. Kevin smiled and left to make arrangements.

       Are you sure about this? Nick asked.

       Yeah, that way, we can make love, and I wont have to go back on my word, you know, about waiting until Im married, you were right, I was just scared, but now that we are getting married, I dont have to be scared anymore, tonight, I will be your wife, and tonight, I will lose my virginity to you, and be with you forever, and love you forever, Hayley said cupping his cheek.

       Are you sure you arent using me? Nick asked.

       Nick! Hayley said.

       I just had to ask, Nick said.

       No, Im not using you, why would I use you for, Hayley said. Nick looked at her.

       Sex, Nick said.

       Nick, if I wanted sex, I would go find a random guy and go for it, Hayley said.

       Hayley! Nick said.

       But I dont want any guy, I want you, you are the one I love and want to be with, Hayley said.

       I love you, Nick said.

       I love you, too, Hayley said.  They kissed.

Chapter 6

Hayley snapped out of her daydream and looked around and saw that she was backstage. Ally sat down beside her.

       Hey, you okay, Ally said.

       Yeah, I was just daydreaming, Hayley said.

       About Nick? Ally asked.

       Yeah, Hayley said.

       You two make a great couple, Ally said.

       Really? Hayley asked.

       Yeah, you two belong together, Ally said. Hayley smiled. She looked up and saw Willa come backstage.

       Where is Nick? Willa asked.

       Who are you? Hayley asked.

       Im Willa, his girlfriend, Willa said. Nick came backstage and saw her and smiled. He took Willa into his arms and kissed her. Hayley sat there. Ally and Karissa looked at each other.

       Girls, this is Willa, my girlfriend, Willa, this is Karissa, Howies girlfriend, this is Ally, AJs girlfriend, and this is Hayley who is the best guitarist ever, Nick said.

       I would really like to hear you guys play, Willa said.

       I think Im going to be sick, Hayley said. She got up and ran to the bathroom and closed the door and leaned against the wall and slid down crying. Ally and Karissa came in.

       Hayley, Ally said.

       It was all a lie, he didnt want to be with me, it was all a lie! Hayley said softly crying. Ally hugged her as Hayley sobbed. Karissa went out and grabbed Howie and pulled him into his dressing room.

       What is going on, Howie, who is Willa, Karissa said.

       Nicks supposedly ex-girlfriend, he told us guys that he broke up with her, I thought he wanted to be with Hayley but I guess he and Willa never broke up, I cant believe he lied to us, I cant believe he would do this to Hayley! Howie said.

       Hayley is crying her eyes out in the bathroom, he really hurt her, Karissa said.

       Damn him, Howie said.

       You dont have a girlfriend besides me, do you, Karissa said. Howe shook his head.

       No, I dont, you are my only girlfriend, I have an ex, Claudia, but she and I broke up a year ago, I know AJ doesnt have another girlfriend besides Ally, Howie said.

Hayley walked out of the bathroom with Ally. AJ came over to them and hugged Hayley.

       Kevin is really yelling at Nick, I mean, tearing him apart, Willa is gone, she broke up with Nick when she heard that Nick got together with you, AJ said.

       I can never be with him again, its over, forever, Hayley said as Nick came up to them.

       No, Nick said. AJ looked at him.

       You lied to me, Nick, and you expect me to just forget about it, think again, you dont really know me, I cant forgive and forget, I can never be with you, ever, just stay away from me, Hayley said as she walked back down the hall. Nick leaned against the wall.

       You screwed up this time, Nick, big time, AJ said taking Allys hand and walked down the hall to his dressing room.

Chapter 7

Hayley walked down the hall. Someone grabbed her arm and pulled her into a room and closed the door. She looked and saw Nick standing there.

       What do you want, Hayley said coldly.

       We have to talk about this, Nick said.

       We dont have to talk about anything, you lied to me, you said you wanted to be with me, but you already had a girlfriend, I cant be with a liar, Hayley said.

       I was going to break up with her, Nick said.

       You came backstage and kissed her right in front of me, Hayley said.

       Im sorry, Nick said.

       I dont care anymore, just stay away from me, Hayley said.

       Hayley, please, give me another chance, Nick said.

       No, Hayley said. She headed for the door. Nick pushed her against the wall.

       I cant let you go, Nick said.

       Well, you are going to have to, because I cant be with a liar, Hayley said.

       I love you, Hayley, I love you so much that it hurts, I cant be without you, you are the only one for me, Nick said.

       What, Hayley said.

       I love you, Hayley, I always have and I know I always will, you are the only one for me and that is the truth, Nick said.

       I cant, Hayley said. Nick kissed her softly.

       Please give me another chance, I will not hurt you again, I promise you that I will never hurt you again, Nick said. She looked at him.

       Okay, Ill give you another chance, but if you hurt me again, its over for good, no begging me to take you back, its over for good, Hayley said.

       I will never hurt you again, I promise, Nick said. He kissed her deeply. Ally and Karissa came in.

       Hayley? Ally asked. Hayley pulled away and looked at them and smiled.

       You forgave him, Karissa said.

       I gave him another chance, but he knows what happens if he hurts me again, Hayley said.

       Nick, you will have to deal with us, if you hurt her again, Ally said.

       I know, I know, I wont hurt her again, Nick said.

       You better not, Karissa said. They left the room. Nick and Hayley continued kissing. She ran her hands through his hair.

       God, Hayley, I want you so bad, Nick said kissing her neck.

       I want you, too, I need you, Hayley said.

       Oh god, wait, its your first time and you wanted to wait until you are married, Nick said.

       I dont care anymore, I know what I want, and I want you to make love to me, Hayley said. Nick looked at her.

       Are you sure? Nick asked.

       I need you, Nick, I cant wait anymore, Hayley said. He kissed her deeply. He locked the door and lifted her up and pressed her against the wall. He laid her on the couch and got on top of her. Nick pulled off her clothes and pulled his off. He slowly and gently made love to her. Afterwards, they laid there holding each other. Hayley laid her head on Nicks chest.

       Wow, Hayley said.

       I know, Nick said kissing her forehead.

       Thank you for being gentle, Hayley said.

       I didnt want to hurt you, Nick said. There was a knock at the door.

       What! Nick said.

       Nick, Hayley needs to go onstage, Kevin said. Hayley got up and got dressed. She kissed him deeply.

       See you later, Hayley said.

       Yes you will, baby, Nick said kissing her neck. She smiled and kissed him and went out the door. Nick got dressed and went out and saw Hayley and the band going onstage. He felt someone tap his shoulder. He looked and saw his mother.

       Mom, Nick said.

       Hello Nickolas, Jane said.

       What are you doing here, Nick said.

       We need to talk, Jane said.

       I want to watch this band perform, one of the guitarists is in the Backstreet Band, Nick said. Jane stood behind him and watched the screen.

       Ladies and Gentlemen, Pink Slip! AJ said. Nick watched the screened as Pink Slip performed. Nick smiled every time Hayley appeared. After they were done performing, they came backstage. Ally and AJ hugged. Karissa and Howie hugged. Hayley jumped into Nicks arms and hugged him tight.  She saw Jane and got down and just stood there.

       Hayley, this is my mother, Jane, Mom, this is my girlfriend, Hayley, Nick said.

       Youre Hayley? Jane asked.

       Yes, Hayley said.

       You dont belong here, Jane said.

       Excuse me? Hayley asked.

       I want you out of my sons life, Jane said.

       Mom, Nick said.

       Im sorry, Nick, but I have heard about Hayley, Willa told me about her so I tracked down Hayleys ex, who happened to be a record producer, he told me that she used him to get a record deal, that she never really loved him, Jane said.

       I dont think so, Ally said.

       Mrs. Carter, her ex was an abusive drunk who beat Hayley every chance he got, Karissa said.

       We are her best friends, Mrs. Carter, we have pictures of all of Hayleys bruises, and her exs criminal record, she never dated a record producer, her ex was a no good drunk who couldnt get a job, Hayley had to work her butt off to support him, Ally said.

       We have known Hayley since we were little, Karissa said.

       We know her better than anyone, Ally said.

       I dont use people to get what I want, I wasnt expecting to be in the Backstreet Band, I didnt con my way into it, we went to Howies club because he heard us play in Karissas garage since he lives in the same neighborhood as Karissa, and he asked us to perform at his club, so we did, and he brought the guys in and they signed me on to play in their band, I said yes if only the band could be an opening act, Hayley said.

       That was my idea by the way, Mark said.

       My feelings for your son are true, he and I got together and then I discovered that he was still with Willa and didnt bother to tell me and told the guys he broke up with her, but he really didnt, Hayley said. Jane looked at Nick.

       Is this true, Jane said.

       Yeah, Nick said.

       Hayley, Im sorry for what I said, you do belong here, Jane said. Hayley smiled.

       Thank you, Mrs. Carter, Hayley said.

       Sit down here and lets chat, Jane said. Jane and Hayley sat down on the couch and they began a conversation.

Chapter 8

Hayley and Nick went to the hotel and got on the elevator and headed up to their suite. Nick looked around and stopped the elevator between floors. He looked at her and smiled and pushed her against the wall and kissed her deeply.

       I love you, Nick said kissing her neck.

       I love you, too, Hayley said.

       How about making love in an elevator? Nick asked.

       Is this a fantasy of yours? Hayley asked.

       Yeah, Nick said nibbling her earlobe. The phone rang. Nick looked at it and picked it up.

       Hello, yes, theres no problem, just having some private time, what, okay, bye, Nick said. He hung up and pushed the button for their floor.

       Fantasy over? Hayley asked.

       Yes, dammit, that was the front desk, a lot of angry people want to come up and cant on one elevator, they need two elevators, Nick said.

       Oh well, we have a bed waiting for us, Hayley said smiling. Nick smiled.

       Yes, a bed, a huge one, Nick said. They arrived at their floor and went to their suite.

       Nick, Kevin said.

       What, Kevin, Nick said.

       Group Meeting, my room, now, Kevin said looking at Hayley. Nick groaned.

       Ill be back, go get a quick shower, baby, Nick said kissing her before following Kevin. Hayley went into the suite and got her clothes and went to the bathroom and got into the shower. She got out and dried off and got dressed and walked out and saw Kevin, Howie, AJ, Brian, and Nick sitting on the bed staring at her.

       Whats going on, Hayley said drying her hair.

       Whats going on is that you are a liar, Kevin said.

       What, Hayley said looking at them strangely.

       You lied, you cant play squat, thats why you have Mike there, he plays your parts while you fake it, he admitted it, Kevin said. Hayley rolled her eyes.

       Mikes jealous because he wants to be in the Backstreet Band, and he wants me out, Hayley said.

       Stop lying, Hayley, Nick said.

       Im not lying! Hayley said putting the towel back in the bedroom. She came out and looked at them.

       Why would you do this, Kevin said.

       You know what, I dont give a shit anymore, you all choose not to believe me when all of you know that Mike is the one lying, Im getting my stuff and Im gone, Mike can have his way and take my place, see how good he is first, Hayley said. She got her stuff together and started out the door but was grabbed by Nick.

       Dont go, Nick said. Hayley pulled away from him.

       I cant be with people who think Im a liar, I am not a liar, have a nice life, Hayley said coldly as she went out the door. She walked down the hall and saw Mike smiling. She went up to him and punched him.

       Asshole, Id like to see how long you last, you lied your way into the band, they will find out how good you really are, Hayley said hitting him with her bag before getting on the elevator. She saw Nick running down the hall. The doors closed and Hayley leaned against the wall and closed her eyes. The doors opened and she walked through the lobby and out the door and hailed a cab and got in and went to the airport. She got on a plane back to Florida. She sat in her seat and looked out the window and closed her eyes as tears fell down her cheeks.

Meanwhile, back at the hotel

Karissa and Ally stared at the guys. Mike was smiling. Mark and Jack were glaring at Mike.

       How could you let her go, you know Mike is lying, he cant play shit, Karissa said.

       Shut up, Karissa, Mike said.

       You are a lying sack of crap, Mike, Mark said.

       Guys, Hayley is the best guitar player in the band, Ally said.

       Mike lied because hes jealous because Hayley was the best player and in the Backstreet Band, Karissa said. Kevin looked at Mike. Mike hung his head.

       Is this true, did you lie? Kevin asked. Mike nodded slowly.

       Guys, we have to find Hayley, Brian said. Nick came in.

       Shes gone, Nick said.

       Where? Brian asked.

       She got on a plane back to Florida, Nick said.

       Nick, you go get her back, we have two days off, after tonights show, Ally, think you can fill in for Hayley in the Backstreet Band? Kevin asked.

       Yeah, Ally said. Kevin gave her the music for the show. Ally studied hard.

       Mike, get your stuff and leave the tour, you are no longer a part of the band, Mark said.

       Fine, I dont need you losers, Mike said. He left. Kevin looked at Howie, AJ, and Brian.

       This is one big mess, we should have believed Hayley, Kevin said. Brian, Howie, and AJ nodded.

       I love her, Nick said.

       Then go to her tomorrow, Kevin said.

       I have to go tonight, Nick said.

       Kevin, let me go to her, before she cant be found, AJ said.

       Go, Kevin said. Ally told Nick where Hayley lives and he ran out and went to the airport and got on the next flight to Florida.

Chapter 9

Nick arrived in Florida and found Hayleys house and went up to the door and rang the doorbell. The door opened and Hayley stood there. He looked at her. She stepped aside and he went in and she closed the door and locked it and turned and he pressed her against the door.

       Come back with me, Mike is gone, thanks to Karissa, Ally, Mark, and Jack, they got him to admit that he was lying, if you stayed, you wouldnt have had to leave, Nick said kissing her neck. She closed her eyes and relaxed against him as she held onto him. She pulled back and cupped his cheek.

       Nick, you should have believed in me, Hayley said.

       I know, I know, I know, baby, I didnt know what to think, but I know you never lied to me, I should have known you werent lying, Im so stupid, Nick said resting his head on her shoulder. She held him close.

       I love you too much to lie to you, Hayley said.

       Please come back with me, I need you there and everyone else does, too, Nick said. He kissed her hungrily. He picked her up and carried her into the living room but she stopped him.

       Nick? Hayley asked.

       I want you, Nick said kissing her neck.

       Bed, down the hall, Hayley said. He carried her to her bedroom and closed the door and laid her on the bed and got on top of her. He pulled his clothes off and pulled hers off. He slid a condom on and he slowly made love to her. (Note: there will be love scenes later on in the story) Nick collapsed on top of her and buried his face in her neck.

       I love you so much, Nick said.

       I love you, too, Hayley said. He kissed her neck and moved to her lips and kissed her deeply.

       Come back with me, Nick said.

       I will, Hayley said. Nick grinned and kissed her. They got up and Nick went into the bathroom. He came out and got dressed. Hayley got dressed. Nick hugged her from behind.

       Dont ever leave me again, Nick said nuzzling her neck.

       I wont, Hayley said. They headed back to catch up with the tour. They arrived in New York and went to the hotel and found AJ and Howie in the lobby.

       Hey! AJ said.

       Hayley, glad you came back, Howie said.

       Thanks, Hayley said.

       Come on, everyone is in Kevins room, Howie said. They went up to Kevins room. Hayley walked in and saw Kevin, Brian, Ally, Karissa, Mark and Jack sitting around.

       Hayley! Ally said getting up.

       Hey, Hayley said as Ally hugged her.

       Hayley, dont leave like that, you know Mike lies about everything, Mark said.

       I know, but I did give him a good punch, Hayley said.

       Yeah, you nailed him good, Mark said smiling.

       Yeah, with my fist and my bag, Hayley said.

       I guess we shouldnt mess with Hayley, Kevin said.

       Thats right, Ally said. The lights went out and someone screamed and the lights came back on and everyone looked around.

       Oh no, wheres Hayley! Nick said.

       Out here, idiots, a voice from the balcony said. They ran to the door and saw Mike holding a knife to Hayleys neck.

       Let her go! Nick said as he started for them but was held back by Kevin and Brian.

       I dont think so, she is going to pay, with her life! Mike said. Hayley looked at Nick. He struggled against Brian and Kevin as they held him back.

       Let her go, Mike, you ruined what you had when you lied, Kevin said.

       She ruined it by joining the band in the first place! Mike said. Ally stepped forward.

       Mike, please, think about this, you saved her life once, remember, you protected her, you told her you would never hurt her, you promised her! Ally said.