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Chapter 21

Everything

Present

Justin smiled warmly at his girlfriend, watching her get into her car. She smiled up at him as she started the car. "I'll call you when I get out." she said. "Love you."

He leaned in and gave her a quick kiss on the lips. "Love you too." shutting the door for her. She waved at him and smiled one last time before backing out of the driveway. Once Justin was sure she was out of sight, he closed the gate behind him and began to walk back toward the front of the house, smiling to himself. Sometimes he wondered how he had gotten so lucky with her. Infact he asked himself that everyday when she was with him. He knew he was a lucky bastard.

Jessica was amazing, down to earth, caring, smart. Everything he ever wanted. They had a lot in common, which was probably one of the reasons they had connected so fast. Plus there was the fact that she understood his chaotic schedule. That was a plus of dating someone that was in the same business as him. He knew he didn't have to try and explain it to her, she just knew. There was a lot of things that they didn't have to discuss when it came to being in the same business. Jessica always seemed to understand, and Justin liked that. Plus, his girlfriend was hot. No fucking denying that.

Yes, he was one lucky bastard.

Justin was almost to the front door when his eye caught a glimpse of light coming from Rachaels's place a few feet away. He frowned to himself, he knew Rachael wasn't home. He had seen her leave earlier. But without hesitation he made his way toward the guest house. His logical side told him to just head back toward the main house, but his curious side told him other wise. Rachael wasn't home, but he knew Nicole was. Which was rather surprising.

Since getting back from the trip two weeks ago, Nicole had been spending most of her days with Chase. In fact, Justin was positive she hadn't slept at home more than 4 days in the past two weeks. Not that he had been keeping count or anything. What Nicole did on her own time was her business-no one elses. Especially his. He had made his mind to keep away from that part of her life 2 weeks ago. Even if his curiosity was itching to know. But he knew better. After what happen in Mexico, he knew better.

He licked his lips as he continue to walk toward the guest house. He wasn't going to deny that kissing Nicole again hadn't made him think of the "what if's" and "why not's". It had, infact that night he had not been able to sleep. He had tossed and turned all night thinking about it. Thinking about her. Thinking about her soft lips on his, or how right and good it felt having her body pressed up against his, so soft and smooth, and she had smelled delicious. Just a hint of vanilla on her…

He shook his head, doing his best to get that image out of his head. He wasn't going to go there. It only lead him to a place he knew couldn't go with her. He stood in front of the glass sliding door a few moments lately, his stomach fluttering for a few seconds when he spotted Nicole hunched over the kitchen table, studying, books and notebooks spread on the table.

Justin continued to stare for a few extra moments. She hadn't seen him yet. She looked engrossed in her books and notes. He frowned lightly, watching her intently. They hadn't talked about the kiss. In fact in the past two weeks since coming back from the trip they'd acted as if nothing had happened. They had started to talk about it right after it had happened, but had been interrupted when everyone else had shown up back at the villa. Jessica had found him first and he had disappeared with her. The next day had been worse, with everyone else around it had been hard to get a moment alone. By the time they came to the end of the trip, it was pretty obvious the conversation was going to have to wait. But once they had landed back in LA, they all got back to their routine lives, making it hard for them to get a moment alone to talk about what happened.

Blinking back to reality he found himself tapping lightly on the glass door trying to get her attention. Why? Honestly, he missed her. He missed talking to her. Since coming back from the trip, they hadn't really talked. Sure they talked at least once a day on the phone or by texting, but Justin knew it wasn't the same as talking to her in person, even if it was over stupid shit. It had nothing to do with what happen back in Mexico. He just missed his best friend. Nicole looked up from her books, tilting her head slightly as recognition hit her face. She gesture with her hand, letting him know the door wasn't locked. Justin slid the door open and stepped inside.

"Hey." he greeted, sliding the door behind him.

Nicole smiled up at him. "Hi." Shifting in her chair. "What are you doing?"

Justin felt his stomach churn again as his eyes fell on her pretty face. He let out a small sigh under his breath. Why did his shit always have to be so fucking complicated? He loved Jessica. His life was great with her. She made him happy. She understood him.

But again…

There was Nicole. And Nicole also understood him as well-in a complete different way than Jessica did. Nicole also made him happy and at the same time drive him crazy. But deep down Justin loved it, because he knew it was what made their relationship great. When he was with Nicole, there was a passion between them that no one could even begin to understand.

Justin sat down a few feet away from her in the empty chair and shrugged. Focusing back on the present. "Nothing. Just bored." He answered truthfully giving her a small grin before he reached out for one of her open books. And he truly was bored-at least for the day. He had nothing planned for today, which was perfectly fine with him. "What are you studying?" he asked, flipping through the pages for a few moments before looking back up at her.

Nicole wrinkled her nose in disgust. "One of my many chem classes." she answered, she looked over at him. "I cant wait till I'm finish with all of this."

Justin gave her a small nod in understanding and saw the look of stress in her eyes. "You're almost there Nicky." he stated in reassurance.

She gave him a small smile. "That's what I keep telling myself." placing a strand of loose hair behind her ear as she glanced back down at her notes for a few seconds. She glanced up at him with a raised eyebrow. "Did you just say you were bored?"

Justin snorted. "That was a delay response."

Nicole shrugged lightly. "Sorry." she mumbled.

"Whoa, no smartass remark. You feeling okay?" he teased.

"Very funny." she said dryly. "I just have so much to study for and I still have three papers to write, and work is driving me crazy…" trailing off. "Sorry." she repeated.

"For what?"

She flipped through the book in front of her, and without looking at him replied. "For complaining. I'm just feeling a bit-"

"Overwhelmed?" Justin offered, watching as she absently reached for the pen next to her.

"Yes."

Justin continue to watch her for a few moments, neither one speaking. He watched as her fingers flipped back and forth in the large textbook, her eyes squinting as she focused on the information in front of her. He couldn't help but smile as he watched her. He couldn't help but think how cute she looked right at that moment. She was in a pair of shorts and tank top, with no make-up and her hair up in a messy ponytail, pen in hand lightly tapping on the table.

He watched her, look up at him through her eyelashes. "Are you just going to watch me?" she asked.

He shrugged nonachantly and answered. "Take a break." Justin paused. "Chill, talk."

Nicole shook her head, looking back down at her textbook and said truthfully. "I don't think you want to hear me complain." taking notes in her notebook.

"Why not?" Justin asked. "It'll be the most conversation we've had in the past two weeks." he teased. Trying to get her to talk. He let out a silent sigh of relief, this was the first time they'd truly been alone since the kiss and so far, she was acting normal toward him. Apart of him knew it was better to not bring it up, but another part- a large part of him-wanted to…

Nicole stopped her writing, and looked up, rolling her eyes. "You are worse than a child Timberlake." she stated.

He grinned. "What can I say? I was an only child growing up."

"Noo…" she started. "You were a brat growing up. Still are." Nicole finished with a small smirk.

Justin leaned back in the chair, folding his arms in front of him. "Too late to to change me now baby." he stated, grinning from ear to ear. "Besides the ladies don't seem to mind."

Nicole shook her head slightly before rolling her eyes again, and flipped back through her textbook. "Not only are you a brat, but you're cocky too." she mumbled under her breath. Justin only chuckled, knowing he had no way of winning with her. But that's what made it fun.

Neither one said a word for a few moments, finally Justin spoke up changing the subject. "Take a break Nicole." he ordered.

She glanced back up, putting the pen down. "J, I cant right now." she told him. "I have too much-"

"Which is why you should take a damn break. Your books and papers are not going anywhere." giving her a long look as he spoke. "Relax for at least a few minutes." She glared at him. Justin raised an eyebrow at her and ordered. "Lean back against the chair and close your eyes for a second." Nicole gave frowned over at him. "Will you just do it." he demanded.

Nicole let out a large sigh, but did what he ordered. Leaning against the chair, he watched her eyelids close. The room was silent for a few moments before Nicole spoke up. "What now?" Her eyes still shut, her tongue snaking out of her mouth to lick her lips slowly.

Justin felt something in his stomach flutter as he watched her for a moment. Man, she had a smooth neck. He could still hear her light giggles whenever he used to nuzzle the side of it…

"J?"

"What?" he asked, blinking back to reality.

"I said, what now?"

He cleared his throat, looking anywhere but her face. "Are you thinking about school?"

"No."

"See? It's taking your mind off it." he stated proudly. "What are you thinking about?"

Nicole shifted slightly in her chair. "Hmm, I'am thinking about how much of a fool I must look right now." she answered, a small grin forming on her lips.

"Not going to argue with you there." Justin retorted back.

Nicole's eyes flew open as she frowned. "Can I get back to my studying now?"she asked.

"I didn't say you could open your eyes." he stated. Nicole opened her mouth, but Justin spoke first. "Keep them close."

"Justin!" she exclaimed, but did it anyway, letting out another sigh. "This is ridiculous and I hate you right now." she told him. "I'm wasting precious time here Timberlake." she informed him with wrinkle of her nose.

"Shh. No your not." Justin defended, his stomach doing that flutter thing again.

"Then what I'am doing?"

He swallowed the knot in his throat, but answered. "You're enjoying time."

"I never knew you were so deep." she said dryly, with a wrinkle of her nose. There was a long pause. After a few extra moments of silence, Nicole finally said in a low voice. "I have so much to do J."

"I know that." he answered.

She sighed again. "Then let me get to it." she begged.

"Nicky," he started. "You are always the one telling me to stop and take a breath when things in my life get hectic." he reminded. "So right now, forget about everything else, and just take a deep breath." he suggested in a low whisper. Nicole didn't argue that time. Instead she did what he asked, and took in a large breath then let it out. Justin knew she was doing it mostly to amuse him, and that was fine. She was quiet for a moment as she opened her eyes again and looked over at him with a small smile. He smiled back and got up from his chair.

Why was it that whenever he was alone with her this way, he wanted to show and experience something new. Even if it was as simple as sitting out in the grass and enjoying the afternoon. He knew if any of his guy friends were to hear any of this, they would tease and give him shit for it. But it was Nicole. He couldn't help it, he couldn't deny it, he had a soft spot for her. Always had and always would.

"What are you doing now?" Nicole asked, breaking him from his thoughts.

Justin looked down at her and answered. "Have you been outside today?" Nicole gave him a long look. He just gave a small nod. "Ookay." he started. "I'm guessing that's a no." answering his own question. "C'mon." extending his hand out to her. Nicole raised an eyebrow at him and opened her mouth to protest. But he was quicker. "You can either do what I ask without any protest or I'll bug hell out of you until I break you." he offered. "Its your choice."

She looked up at him through her eyelashes. "It seems I don't have a coice." sticking her tongue out at him as she got up from the chair. Justin smiled smugly. She asked as she followed him. "Do I even want to ask where were going?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"That one looks like a giraffe." Nicole said ten minutes later as she pointed with her finger.

Justin followed her finger. "Where? I don't see it."

"Right there." She stated, continuing to point.

Justin squinted his eyes for a few seconds, trying his best to see what she saw. He sighed and pointed too. "That one?" he asked. He didn't wait for her to answer, instead he repeated. "I don't see it." glancing over at her.

She kept her eyes locked up at the blue sky and replied. "Well I do." For the past ten minutes or so, they had been sprawled out in the backyards grass, looking up into the sky and playing the game they had come up with when they were younger. Naming the different types of objects and animals the clouds formed. It had been years since they'd played.

Justin gave her a once over before he looked back up at the sky, and closed his eyes for a split second. It was moments like this that made him wonder,why they weren't together. What was the reason for them being apart? His heart thumped against his chest as these thoughts ran through his head. He swallowed and let out a low breath before opening his eyes up again and he continued to play the game to keep his mind off her and the what if's.

He looked back to where she had been pointing a few moments before, and squinted his eyes again. "I don't see it." he concluded. "But what I do see is the state of Florida, over there." pointing.

That time Nicole followed his finger with her eyes. "Yep." giggling lightly.

After that it got quiet. Neither one spoke for about five minutes. Both keeping their eyes locked up at the clouds. Justin glanced discreetly over at her from the corner of his eye and he smiled. She looked relaxed, at least at the moment. She laid on the grass, her body completely lax as her face pointed upward to the sky. Her brown hair spread around her as well. That was exactly what he wanted for her. To forget about the stress in her life-at least for a few moments.

She looked up from the sky and turned her face in his direction. "Thanks." she whispered as if reading his mind on what he had been thinking at that moment.

"Sometimes you just have to trust me Nicky." he teased, moving his eyes from the sky and toward her face.

Nicole let out a small laugh and looked back up, as she answered. "I know. But sometimes trusting you gets me in trouble."

"Hmm…" Justin started. "I feel the same way about you sweetheart." he retorted. She faced him again and only gave a wrinkle of her nose as a respond. They locked eyes for a split moment before Justin turned his face up the blue sky again. He could feel her eyes on him, but she didn't speak. He cleared his throat and spoke up again. "I'm thinking we should do this more often." he suggested, watching the clouds move ever so slowly above him.

"Yeah." Nicole agreed.

"But then again, we arent kids anymore…" he reminded.

He heard her let out a relax sigh. "What does that have to do with anything?" she asked defensively. "Shouldn't we be allowed to enjoy this as adults too?" Justin smiled to himself as he listened to her. He heard her laugh softly.

"Whats so funny?" Justin asked her innocently.

She laughed again to herself. "Nothing." she answered him. "Except that I get it…" taking in a deep breath. Justin didn't say a word, waiting for her to continue. "How did I loose sight of it? I'm the one always telling everyone else to enjoy what's around them…" she paused for a second. "I've just gotten so obsessed with the future that I'd forgotten about what's right here…"

Justin replied honestly. "We all do it Nicky," he paused. "But you cant let all of that," pointing in the direction of the house. "Consume you. Consume who you are. Because there is so much more out there. That's just part of who you are." He felt her gaze back up at him. "Okay?" Turning his body a little in her direction, his heart once again racing rapidly in his chest.

He watched her lick her lips before giving a small nod. He had one arm outstretch in her direction. Before either one spoke up again, Nicole slid closer to him. Justin wrapped his one arm around her shoulder, pressing her against his body. She felt soft against him. He forgotten how much he missed being able to hold her this way. She snuggled against him. Right at that moment he knew neither one was thinking about anyone else. Right at that moment it was just them. Regardless of whether it was right or wrong, it did not matter to either one.

Nicole looked up at him. Justin moved his other hand underneath her chin, as he leaned down and took her lips with his. She didn't protest, instead she shifted enough, so their bodies were aligned with each other. Justin slid his arm from underneath her and tangled his fingers in her hair, while his other hand wrapped itself loosely around her waist. Nicole placed the palm of her hand on his cheek and tangled her legs with his as they kissed. The familiar butterflies fluttering in both of their stomachs as their mouths continued to touch. Justin rubbed the small of her back with his palm as the kiss deepened.

After a few moments, they broke from their embrace. Nicole stroked the side of his cheek with her thumb, as she bit her lower lip nervously. "We shouldn't-"

Justin sighed and stopped her. "I know…" but leaned in and pressed his lips against her forehead. He knew they shouldn't. Justin knew it was wrong, but right at that moment he didn't care. "I've missed you Nicole." he whispered into her hair.

He heard her sighed, and felt her snuggle closer against him. "I've missed you too." she murmured back.

Chapter 23
Still

2002

Virginia Beach...

Nicole bounced from side to side on the couch, her butt never leaving the seat, laughing gleefully, as she tossed the controller on the floor. "I won!" happily throwing her arms up in the air.

"Fucking shit!" Justin cursed, tossing his controller on the coffee table. "I'm fucking done." he mumbled, glancing over at Nicole with a frown.

Nicole couldn't help but giggle. "You are such a sore loser J." sitting Indian style on the couch. For the past two hours they had been playing video games on the X-Box. And she had been kicking ass if she didn't say so herself. "You look so cute when you pout." she teased him with a huge grin on her face.

It was Justin's last day in Virginia Beach before he flew back to Los Angeles the next morning. Justin, along with Nicole, Trace and Rachael had been invited to spend the day at Pharrell's. The night before Pharrell along with Justin had come up with the crazy idea of getting a few friends together and throwing a pool party because the weather was supposed to be perfect.

"Fucking game." he muttered, he sat next to her on the couch and turned to look at her again with an raised eyebrow.

"What?" she asked him. Justin only continued to stare her down. Her eyes widen and she shook her head, laughing incredulously. "No." she started shaking a finger at him. She knew what the look was for. He could be such a child when it came to anything remotely competitive.

"Then again-" he started, trying to hide his smirk.

"I did not cheat!" she exclaimed with a wrinkle of her nose. She reached down for her controller on the floor and placed it next to Justin's on the coffee table, meeting his eyes. Justin rolled his eyes. "You are such a baby!"

Justin responded with a snort.

Nicole pouted. "You become the biggest baby when you loose at anything Timberlake." She smirked. "I've been kicking your ass in video games for years. It is not my fault you suck. I beat you fair and square."

"Yeah, if fair and square means cheating." he stated. Nicole folded her arms in front of her, leaning back against the couch, the smile on her face disappearing. "And as for the sucking, I can think of a few things you could suck…" he paused, with a huge grin on his features. He licked his lips, his eyes looking her up and down. "Hmm. I cant think of a few things I could suck on…" he finished. Loving how cute and sexy she looked just sitting there, arms crossed in front of her chest, hair down, a white tank top showing only the straps of her bikini top, and short swim shorts, showing off her tone and tan legs.

Nicole rolled her eyes. "Yeah, I've seen what you suck: and that's playing video games." Justin turned his face to her. Nicole raised an eyebrow when she saw the look in his eyes. The look in his eyes that told her she was about to be attacked. Before she even had the chance to blink or speak, he pounced on her, pushing her body back against the end of the couch. Her head resting up against the couch's arm rest. "Justin!" she exclaimed. Yet, feeling the familiar tingle down to her toes as he pressed his body against hers.

Justin grinned widely down at her. "What?" giving her an innocent look, as he poked her sides gently.

She couldn't help but giggle. "Stop that!" she demanded. Watching him slide his body next to her on the couch, their bodies were aligned. She absently lifted her leg, letting it rest over his. He stopped poking her long enough for his mouth to close over hers. She moaned in his mouth as he nibbled at her lower lip, tasting it with the tip of his tongue. He dipped inside, her tongue in search of his. She slid it along his and moaned arching into him.

Justin slid his arm around her waist and cupped her ass with one hand, pressing her closer to him. Bringing her mound into direct contact with his now growing cock. He growled lightly, feeling her covered breasts nestled against his chest. It felt incredible, but it wasn't enough, he wanted more. He wanted her.

"J-Justin…" Nicole murmured against his mouth. "We really shouldn't be doing this right now…" trailing off. And they really shouldn't, they were not alone. Hell, they weren't even back at the hotel, they were laying on Pharrell's couch in his game room, in his house. She broke from his lips, "J…" she breathed, licking her lips, locking eyes with him.

"Hmm." was all Justin said as he lowered his head and stopped for a second to savor her sweet scent. Vanilla. He kissed her once again softly, savoring the feel of her lips he'd been wanting for the past 3 hours.

"Justin, what if someone walks in?" she reminded him. "They are going to wonder what the hell is going on when they see your hand groping me." she joked lightly.

"So?" he murmured.

"So, we aren't alone. God knows how many people are out there right now and how many would love to spread Justin Timberlake gossip-" she gasped when he squeezed her ass once again.

"They are drunk and probably high off their asses right now." he explained. "I don't see them paying us any attention right now." Capturing her lips once again in an asserting sexual kiss. Her lips were soft and sweet.

This time Justin wasn't going to allow her to pull away. He kissed her knowing exactly what he needed to do to get what he wanted. He knew exactly how much pressure she liked, how to get her mouth to part for his tongue, how to get a response from her even when she didn't want to give one.

Her hands slid up his chest, not stopping until they were locked behind his neck. She didn't have to push her body into his because he was doing it for her. Pressing her back against the back of the couch. His hot body pressed up against hers.

He thrust forward, making them both moan.

He knew she had a point. Anyone could walk in at the moment and catch them. Then again they had been playing video games for almost 2 hours and no one had entered the room. So why not take a chance? Besides the idea of them having to be extra cautious turned him on. And by the way Nicole's body was reacting, she liked the idea too.

"Justin-"

"Relax Babygirl." he said into her mouth and at the same time taking of one of her covered breasts.

Relax? She didn't think relaxing was an option at that moment. Not when his hands were doing a perfect job of groping and rubbing on her… and the fact that anyone could walk in on them. Nicole groaned and pleaded under her breath. "Oh god, please don't let anyone come in."

Justin chuckled, his large hand massaged her breast through the bikini fabric. He moved his hand from her breast for a brief moment, moving his hand inside her shirt. "Relax…" he repeated in a low whisper, as his lips brushed along the side of her cheek. He hummed in appreciation. "Mmmm, you feel so soft baby…" gently pushing up the bikini top of one of her breast. One perfect mound was enough to fill his big masculine hand. He squeezed and moaned. His finger tip teased her nipple, the sensation too much for her to bare. "So soft…" he whispered again before kissing her. Squeezing the creamy mound once again.

Nicole swallowed the lump in her throat. "This is such a bad idea…" she whispered, against his lips. "Hmm, but don't stop." she ordered him.

Justin chuckled against her lips, letting go of her breast. "Trust me, I don't plan on it." He slipped his hand down the front of her shorts, cupping her mound for a few moments before letting his fingertip dip inside her shorts. "Damn girl, you're wet for me already aren't you?"

Nicole's response was a low purring noise from deep in her throat, her eyes shut.

Justin licked his lips in anticipation, but before he had a chance to continue, he heard footsteps. He glanced down at Nicole. She was looking up at him, wide-eyed. "Don't move." Justin ordered.

"Justin!" she hissed. This was not good. Nothing good could come out of this. It was obvious someone was on the other side of the door.

"Shh." Justin whispered as he began to rub the swollen and sensitive flesh lightly, feeling the silkiness of her arousal. She jerked her body as he brushed the small bud once, twice, three times. "Don't move." he repeated.

"Stop doing that!" Nicole moaned, shifting slightly. How was it possible to feel scared and in pure bliss at the same time?

"Stop what?" Justin asked innocently. Continuing to dip intimately his finger inside her sweet spot. "You're soaking wet…" he observed. Sinking into her hot flesh a little deeper.

Nicole opened her mouth to respond, but shut it back up when the door opened slightly. The music from the backyard hitting their ears for the first time in the past 2 hours. Nicole prayed they couldn't see Justin's body from wherever they stood. And prayed that they didn't actually step inside.

"I told you this wasn't a bathroom!" exclaimed an unfamiliar female voice.

"Oh great." Nicole muttered under breath, and a roll of her eyes. They were about to be caught by drunk girls that would tell the whole damn world about Justin Timberlake's hand in his best friend's shorts. Just fucking great.

"Shh." Justin hushed.

"Maybe it's the next door over." another female voice said.

Nicole glared up at him. "I told you this would happen!" she said in an irritated tone. Why did this kind of stuff always have to happen? Why couldn't she get off without any interruptions like any other normal woman? That was why she didn't want to start anything, because she knew this was going to happen. It never seemed to fail. She wasn't only irritated now, but horny as hell and it was all Justin's fault. She should have just said no. But damn him for being able to break her down. Bastard.

"Will you just relax?" he whispered into her ear.

Nicole whimpered when she felt him rub on her again with his thumb. "How I' am supposed to do that when you keep rubbing on me that way and there are two drunk girls about to catch us-" she moaned softly when Justin's lips captured hers.

"If you don't be quiet then we will be caught." he said, breaking from her lips. "Just shut up." he ordered with a grin on his features.

Nicole frowned up at him. She knew they were going to get caught. They weren't lucky enough to NOT get caught. They had disappeared from the party two hours ago, and Trace, along with Rachael and Pharrell knew where they were at. Plus, it wasn't as if the game room was dark. The big screen television was still turned on, making it blaring obvious that someone had been in there at some point.

"C'mon! I have to pee!" the first voice. Nicole let out a sigh of relief when she heard the door shut. That had been too close. Nicole didn't even want to think of what could have happened if they would have been caught with their pants down-or rather with Justin's hands in her pants.

Justin chuckled lightly. "Baby, breath. I can hear your heart thumping deep in your chest."

Nicole sighed again. "J- we almost got caught-"

"But we didn't." Justin reminded her, before she had the chance to speak again, his lips captured hers. A demanding selfish kind of kiss. A kiss that filled her mouth with urgent need and left him begging for oxygen when he broke it. "Were alone again."

Nicole looked wide-eyed at him. "Are you crazy?" she exclaimed.

"No." he said, then paused for a split second before speaking up again. "Maybe." grinning from ear to ear down at her. Justin's thumb and forefinger touching the front of her, stroking back and forth. Nicole gripped his wrist, a desire shooting through her and flooding her inner thighs with moist heat.

"Justin-stop." she pleaded, taking in a shaky breath.

"Are you sure?" Justin asked mockingly. "Because…" he started, taking her hand to her center rubbing her own finger against her hot wetness. "You're pretty wet there baby." he whispered. "Can you feel it? Hmm. So silky and hot…" licking his lips. "And it's just for me isn't it?"

"Oh god…" Nicole moaned.

"Say it Nicole." he demanded. "Say its all mine."

She licked her dried lips. "Its all yours." she breathed. "Jus-Justin…" she stammered.

He brought their wet fingers away from her and moved it up to his face. "Yeah girl, all mine." he told her. Bringing her finger and his own into his mouth and sucked gently. Moaning.

She bit her lip, watching Justin, his eyes closed, tasting their fingers together. He licked them and sucked them, and finally slid them out of his mouth.

"I love the way you taste…"

"What way is that?"

Justin smiled down at her. "So sweet. So wet and sticky. Just for me." Nicole just moaned again. He eased a finger into her. Sliding in and out. He didn't mess around. He went straight for the kill. In and out he stroked her over and over until she was panting.

"Ooohh, fuck." Nicole cursed. "That feels good. But this is so wrong." she managed to spat out. "I fucking hate you sometimes."

His finger paused for a second. "Oh, I'm sorry, do you want me to stop?" he asked sarcastically. "Because I was thinking of adding another finger…" brushing a rough kiss on her lips.

"Ass…" she said into his mouth, but her answer was cut off when he added the second finger to the first one without waiting for a response. "Oh god." she hissed gripping his wrist once again. All of a sudden she didn't care who came in barging through the door. Not when his fingers were doing a perfect job of pleasuring the very core of her body. None of that mattered at that moment.

Justin watched her face distort with pleasure, her arching and bumping up against his fingers, forcing him deeper. The fit of her was moist and hot that it made his throat tight, and cock tighter. She pressed forward on his fingers in impatience, her brown eyes glazed with desire.

He stopped moving and let her take over, raising up and down, a woman who knew what she wanted and wasn't shy about getting it. It was amazing to see how much she had grown into her sexuality. It only made her sexier in his eyes.

"Damn girl, you don't even need me do you?" It didn't bother him, quite the opposite.

She had established her own rhythm, her breathing ragged and quick, her hips rocking her onto his two fingers. "I do need you Timberlake." she answered.

A small smile tugged on his lips, please by her words. He stroked inside her, wanted to feel it, own it.

And then she came on a low moan. He didn't move his fingers, he kept them in place, wanting her to feel him filling her as she jerked and shuddered.

It was long, tight as she enjoyed the orgasm with little pants of pleasure. Justin held her, smiling at how incredible she looked. Her lips swollen, hair in a mess, her chest heaving, as she tried to catch her breath.

"Shh, baby. We don't want anyone to know were in here." he murmured.

"Its too much."

"No, its not enough."

He did pull back a little, brushing her throbbing lips and not her clit while he whispered what he wanted to do to her, what he wanted her to do to him. Making her hot and trembly all over again.

And he knew it.

He started touching her more eagerly, dipping inside her body with his big finger, and using the heel of his hand to stroke her. With each touch the pleasure built all over again until she whimpered out and came once more, this time going completely limp against the couch. She felt as if the air had been sucked out of the room.

"I cant believe I just did that." she murmured once she had caught her breath.

Just chuckled lightly. "Well you did." he whispered, biting her earlobe, his tongue invading her ear. "And it was hot."

Nicole moaned again. Her body couldn't take anymore. Two orgasms in less than ten minutes was all she could take, thank you very much.

He moved his lips to one side of her cheek, pressing them against her soft skin for a few moments. "Your so beautiful when you come." he told her in a hoarse voice. She let out a sigh in satisfaction, nuzzling her nose against his. He slid one arm around her waist, softly rubbing the small of her spine. Enjoying how soft and warm she felt pressed against him. He watched as her eyelids shut, and she sighed again. "Then again…I think your beautiful regardless." he murmured honestly, his eyes locked on her soft features.

A small smile tugged on her lips, her eyes still shut. "You better be careful." she warned him.

"Why?"

"A girl can get use to all this attention." she answered him, pressing her lips together. Justin laughed lightly, leaning in to kiss the top of her head. "No wonder you have women in the palm of your hand, you know exactly what to say." she joked lightly.

"It's a gift."

"And he's modest." she stated dryly, opening her eyes and locking them with his blue orbs.

He licked his lower lip and said. "I never said I was modest." bending down and capturing her mouth in a kiss. She turned her head to kiss his neck, and his cheek and then his lips again. He kissed her back. "Maybe we should get back out there." he suggested against her lips.

Nicole moaned in protest. "Noo." pouting. "I like it right here."

"What happen to this being wrong?" he asked with a light smirk.

"Hmm, that completely left my mind the second you begin to finger me." she whispered in a sexy tone into his ear, before lightly nibbling.

Justin growled. "Little girl…"

"What?" she asked innocently. "Isn't that what you wanted to hear? Mmm?" covering her lips with his again.

"Hear what?" he pushed, sliding his hands up and delving his fingers into her hair. "How wet you get for me?"

She sighed. "Yes."

"And how its all fucking mine." he reminded, biting gently on her lower lip. Nicole whimpered, getting turned on again. He swallowed the lump in his throat. "It is mine right Nic?" Wanting to hear it from her own mouth. "Tell me baby." he demanded.

"Its yours…" she said in a strained voice. "All yours." Shifting slightly in the couch.

Justin kissed her. Again. God damn it, he didn't get tired of doing that. Kissing her. He got lost in her soft lips. Sliding his tongue inside her mouth, one hand resting on the back of her head. "I swear I love fucking kissing you." he said, kissing her all over. Kissing her mouth, behind her ear, her throat and neck. "Your so beautiful." he murmured, having difficulty getting the words out.

"Thank you." she said, closing her eyes.

"Don't thank me Nicole. I'm just stating the obvious. You're beautiful." feeling his heart race rapidly within his chest. There was a pause, then Justin spoke up again. "I cant stop thinking about you." he confessed, with his mouth back on hers. Kissing her softly. Just her bottom lip. "When I was in the studio last night all I kept thinking about was you. Hell, when I'm away from you for longer than an hour, I wonder what your doing." He knew it probably sounded stupid, but he didn't care. For the first time in years, he felt it was okay.

Nicole brought her hand up to his face, fingertips touching him.

Justin eyes locked with hers, biting his lower lip nervously. Silence hitting the room. But both feeling the electricity in the room. "I love you Nicole."

He saw the look in her eyes. He hadn't said that out loud to her in years. The feelings were always there, even with all the women that had entered and left his life, those feelings for Nicole were always down deep inside, but he hadn't dared repeated it out loud since they were teenagers.

Nicole felt the tears forming in the corner of her eyes, as she swallowed the lump in her throat. She brought her thumb over the top of his lips, taking a shaky breath, as she stared deep into his eyes.

Justin opened his mouth to speak up again, but was interrupted when he heard Trace's voice.

"I should have known I would catch you both this way."

Nicole and Justin broke away from their trance, and glanced up at Trace, who leaned down over the couch, smirking. They must have been lost in their own world that neither one had heard the door open again.

"What's up Trace?" Justin asked, watching Nicole break from his embrace to sit back up. He watched from the corner of his eye as she discreetly wiped her eyes with the back of her hand. Damn Trace for coming in and interrupting.

"Dude, you've been MIA for the past couple of hours, people are beginning to wonder where you ran off to." he explained. "So before everyone comes out searching for you, I figure I would warn you." glancing over at Nicole. "You okay there Nic?" he asked. Justin noticed for the first time the glassy look in his best friend's eyes. He was drunk, or high. Or both. He wasn't sure.

Nicole gave Trace a quick glance. "Yeah, fine." getting up from the couch. "I'm going to grab something to drink." Exiting the room before Justin had a chance to stop her.

Chapter 24

Daydreamer

Germany 1997

"You little piece of shit!" Chris Kirkpatrick exclaimed. "You've been holding out on us!" pointing an accusing finger over at his friend/group mate.

Justin struggled to get up from the edge of the bed. "I told you- I had an extra bottle you idiot!" he reminded, snorting to himself as he fell right back on the bed. "You're just too fucking drunk to remember me telling you that!" letting his head fall back against the mattress.

"He's not the only one that is fucking drunk." Joey stated with a snicker. He sat on the floor, his back against the bed where Justin sat. Joey looked to his left, smiling at Nicole who sat next to him, her knees up to her chest. "Isn't that right Nicky?" he asked, resting his head on her shoulder.

Nicole busted out with a few giggles. "Right Joey!"

"Dude!" Justin exclaimed, sitting back up and smacking Joey on the back of the head. Making Joey lift his head back up from Nicole's shoulder.

"What the fuck was that for?!" Joey yelled, rubbing the back of his head with his hand. "Asshole."

JC's laughter bellowed through the room. He sat on the other twin bed. "That was: get the hell away from her smack!" he explained.

Justin glared over at JC. "Shut up." he mumbled. Glancing back down at Joey and Nicole, a small frown on his face. He should have known this would happen. Joey was the biggest flirt he had ever met. From the moment Nicole and Rachael had landed in Germany earlier that day, Joey had been trying to get his mack on with both girls. First it had been Rachael. But Rachael had not fallen for any of it, mostly because she had become smitten with JC from the moment her eyes had landed on him. She had not been able to stop smiling and giggling like a damn 12 year old girl. It was actually kind of disgusting. But there was nothing Justin could do about it. Nicole on the other hand…

Justin knew Joey and knew it was just fun flirting on his part, and he didn't want for Nicole to get the wrong idea about it. Not that Nicole was that kind of girl. And he knew she wasn't looking for anything like that at the moment. She had just broken up with Josh. Justin knew she was on the rebound.

Shit, then again, maybe he should keep an eye on her…especially since she was drunk. He glanced down at her, and watched her gulp down another swig of her drink. He couldn't help but smile. Yep, she was drunk. She had never had an alcoholic drink before until that night. It was actually pretty funny to watch. He watched her giggle uncontrollably, leaning a little more into Joey.

The small frown reappeared back on his handsome features, watching from where he sat. He brought the can of beer back up to his lips as narrowing his eyes. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of something he didn't quite recognize in the pit of his stomach as he stared.

Yeah, he was going to keep an eye on them. He didn't want them doing something stupid. He was just looking out for his friends. At least that's what he kept telling himself, as he tossed the empty beer can into the trash can a few feet away from him. He looked over his shoulder at Lance who sat up against the bed's headboard. "Hey man, toss me another beer." he asked him. Lance tossed him another can. "Thanks." he answered, catching the beer with both his hands.

Nicole knew the type of guy Joey was. The kind of guy that talked to anything that had boobs and a vagina. Nicole knew that. At least he hoped Nicole knew that. Then he remembered she was only 15 years old. Damn. He let out a small sigh, he wasn't going to lie to himself, it bothered him for some reason. Seeing her flirt back. Ever since the last time he flown back to Memphis to see his family, he had not been able to stop thinking about her. It wasn't as if she didn't cross his mind on a regular basis, but this time it was different. He found himself wondering what it would be like to kiss her soft lips, to run his fingers through her dark hair, to feel her pressed against him, to hold her hand…

He even found himself getting that goofy ass smile on his face- just like Rachael- whenever he thought about her.

He still didn't know how his feelings for her had began to change, but they had. Gradually he found himself wondering what it would be like to have her as more than just a friend. But, he knew better than to act on his feelings, especially because at that time she had a boyfriend. And even now he knew better than to do anything about it. He didn't want her to think he was trying to take advantage of her. Because he knew she was hurt. Josh had been her first boyfriend, puppy love- as his Granny would call it, Justin knew it would take some time for Nicole to realize that it wasn't as bad as she thought.

And as much as he'd been fantasying about kissing her lately, he knew he needed to figure out exactly what these new feelings meant. He did not want to complicate their friendship. Fuck he wasn't even drunk, he was over thinking everything, he opened his new can of beer. He needed more to drink. He had a buzz going but it seemed to be evaporating.

He thoughts were interrupted when Chris spoke up again. "Are you going to go get the bottle or not?"

Justin glanced back over at Chris, taking a sip of his beer. "You go get it."

He heard Rachael giggled a few feet away. "He cant even get up from the damn floor."

Yep, his cousin was drunk too. He glanced around the room. Actually, he was positive everyone in the room at that moment was drunk off their asses. JC and Rachael sat on the other twin bed, both with a cup of god knows what in their hands and flirting. Lance and himself sat on the other opposite bed, while Chris, along with Joey and Nicole sat on the floor. Justin snorted back his laughter when his eyes landed on Trace who was passed out on the couch a few feet away from Chris. They had been drinking and talking for the past couple of hours. It was the first night in about two weeks where him and the guys did not have a show and did not have to get up early the next morning, so they were talking advantage of it.

"Yeah. I cant even get up." Chris agreed, the glassy look in his eyes.

Justin rolled his eyes and stood up. "I'll fucking go with you because I know you'll probably end up drinking in on the way back." He placed his beer on the dresser. "Fucker." he said jokingly.

"Wait, you want me to go… withs you?" Chris slurred. "Seriously, I don't think I can get up right now."

Justin reached out for the pillow next to Lance and threw it at Chris head. Chris just gave him the finger from where he sat as he ducked. "Fine, I'll be right back." he mumbled, shaking his head. He glanced back down to Nicole, and found himself frowning for what seemed the hundredth time in the past ten minutes, her head was resting on Joey's shoulder. Before he realized it, he blurted out. "Nicky, want to go with me?."

Nicole looked over at him, lifting her head up with a smile on her face. Oblivious to why he was asking her to go with him. "Go where?"

"To get my bottle of Jack." he informed her. "C'mon, go with me." reaching his hand out to her.

"Oookay." she agreed. Slowly placing one hand on Joey's shoulder to get herself up from the floor. Once she was halfway up, she took Justin's hand, for support. She patted Joey's head absently. "K, well be back."

"Okay." Joey answered nonchalantly.

Justin resisted the urge to shake his head. All of a sudden feeling stupid for thinking Joey was truly interested in Nicole. He was just being Joey. He blinked back to the present when Nicole stood in front of him.

"Whoa." gripping tightly on Justin's hand. "The room is spinning J." she informed him with a giggle.

Justin chuckled. "Is it?"

Nicole placed her free hand on her hip, tilting her head and frowning. "Are you laughing at me Timberlake?"

"I'm not laughing at you." Justin tugged on her hand, dragging her toward the door. "We'll be back." he stated out loud. He rolled his eyes. No one was listening. "C'mon girl." he told Nicole as he stepped out of the room with her.

Once they were out in the hall, Nicole tugged on Justin's hand. "Slow down. You are walking way too fast."

Justin came to a halt, grinning from ear to ear, watching her. She let go of his hand, and leaned back against the hallways wall, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. A few moments, she opened her eyes back up and found Justin standing in front of her, the huge grin still on his face. "Just give me a few moments…"

"Do you feel like throwing up?" he asked worriedly, but the grin never leaving his face.

"No." she said. "I just…you were just walking too fast that's all." she told him. "And will you stop smiling like an idiot." she demanded.

Justin couldn't help but chuckle. "I just never thought the day would come where I would see you drunk off your ass." chuckling some more.

"I' am not drunk." Nicole said defensively.

He rolled his eyes. "Please girl, you're drunk. You cant even walk straight right now."

She pouted. "I can walk." giving him a glare that lasted about five seconds before she busted out laughing. "Okay, so maybe I' am a bit drunk."

"Yeah, just a little bit." he agreed sarcastically, shaking his head. "Ready?" extending his arm out to her. Nicole responded by sliding her arm through his, and gripping on to his hand, as she let him lead her again. Justin couldn't help but feel a small shiver run down his spine as her fingers brushed along his arm. "You okay?" he asked her, trying his best to focus on anything else but her touch.

"Uh, uh." she murmured. "You know my mom would kill me if she found out about this."

Justin gave her a quick glance from the corner of his eye. "Then we'll just have to make sure your mom never finds out." he explained, continuing walking.

She rested her head on his shoulder as they walked. "Thanks." she murmured. They walked in silence for a few moments. "Where is the room?" she asked in a whiny tone, at the same time they came to a stop,. They stood in front of a door.

Justin took the hotel room key out of his pocket. "So impatient." he teased, unlocking the door, and letting her walk in first.

"I have to pee!" Nicole told him, letting go of his arm to find the bathroom.

Justin found himself laughing for what seemed the thousand time, as he shut the door behind him and followed her inside. He walked toward the luggage on the floor, next to JC's and Joey's luggage. He was sharing the room with the both of them. Usually the rooms where next to each other. But on rare occasions they were separated.

Nicole reappeared, smiling. "I feel better." she informed him.

"Good." Justin said, bending down to unzip his luggage, digging in to find his bottle of Jack Daniels. After a few moments, his hand came back out with his fingers wrapped around the bottle and the other hand holding two small shot glasses. "Hell ya. This is what we need." looking over at her with a grin. He slipped the cap off the bottle and stood back up.

"Where the hell did you get that?" Nicole asked with a wrinkle of her nose.

Justin placed the shot glasses on the night stand by the bed. "From home." he stated mischievously, carefully pouring the whiskey into the small glasses. "Just like your mom cant find out about you drinking-my mom cant find out about this. At least not about me having my own stash of Jack." he explained, glancing back up at Nicole. His mom wasn't keen about him drinking, especially when he was still under age, but at the same time, she never truly stopped him. It was harder to stop him now that they spent time in Europe. It had gotten to the point where Lynn just told him to be careful. He placed the bottle up to his lips, tipping his head back slightly to take a long swig of the whiskey. Closing his eyes as he felt the burning sensation of the alcohol down his throat.

With the glassy look still in her eyes, she said. "Your secret is safe with me." she paused. "How can you take that straight?" nodding toward the bottle in his hand.

Justin placed the bottle back on the night stand. "Easy." he said simply. He took one shot glass in each hand. "Come on Nicky, you're about to take your first shot of whiskey." grinning, as he handed the shot glass to her.

Nicole gave him a doubtful look. "I don't know J. I don't think I can do it." glancing down at the shot in her hand. Yes, she was drunk, but for most of the night Rachael and Lance had been mixing her drinks. She hadn't actually taken anything straight yet.

"Yes, you can." Justin encouraged. "I'll take it with you." She bit her lower lip, looking up at him. He took a step closer to her, holding his small glass in his hand. "C'mon gurrl." he drawled out.

Nicole felt something in her stomach jump when her eyes fell on his face. He had such beautiful blue eyes…

Where the hell did that come from?

She blinked back to reality, why not? It wasn't as if she wasn't drunk already. What would a shot of whiskey really do to her? She sighed. "Okay…"

Justin smiled widely. "That's my girl." he clinked their shot glasses together and said. "To…" trailing off for a split second. "To you, visiting." he finished placing the shot glass to his lips.

Nicole couldn't help but smile at his toast as she placed the glass to her lips as well. She watched him tilt his head back and take the shot down. Nicole closed her eyes, as she mimicked him and let the strong whiskey hit her throat. She opened her eyes, feeling the burn of the whiskey go through her. "Holy crap." she stated, wrinkling her nose. "I cant believe I just did that." meeting Justin's gaze.

Justin looked surprisingly at her. "Well you did." he pretended to wipe the corner of his eyes with his fingers. "I'm so proud of you. You took the shot like a real man." Then took the empty shot glass out of her hand and placed it on the table.

Nicole slapped his chest playfully. "Shut up."

"Want another one?" he asked her seriously, but his eyes dancing playfully.

Nicole looked wide eyed at him. "Uh, uh." shaking her head at him. "But I do have to go pee again." she told him with a giggle. "I'll be right back." turning her back to him and running to the bathroom.

Justin only shook his head, walking toward the hotel window. He opened the curtains slightly, looking out. Man, he still couldn't believe he was in Germany. He was only 16 years old and he was on his way to doing what he had been dreaming about for years. Music. And doing with four guys he considered brothers. He knew that thing were not going exactly as all five of them had fantasized about in the beginning. For the past 4 months or so they had been all over Europe, performing wherever they were allowed. Staying in crappy hotels rooms, sleeping in airports and buses, but he felt it in his gut that it would be worth it in the long run.

He was brought back to reality when he heard Nicole's voice. "Okay, I think I need to lay down for a little bit now." she informed him.

Justin turned back around, as she crawled into the bed. He watched her slowly lay her head on the pillow. "I hope this is your bed." she stated. "I don't want Joey or JC to think I'm trying to steal theirs." She shifted a few times, before she got herself comfortable.

"But its okay to steal mine?" he asked her teasingly, making his way toward her. He sat down on the bed across from her. He found himself thinking how pretty she looked right at that moment. Laying on his sheets, her cheek pressed against his pillow. The pillow that he carried to every hotel they stayed at.

"Yes." Nicole answered without opening her eyes. "I'm your visitor not theirs." He saw her wince slightly.

"What's wrong?" He couldn't stop starring at her.

"I just need to lay here for a few…" her eyes still shut. "I can feel it in my tummy."

Justin found himself smiling at how cute it was that she said the word 'tummy'. Only she would say something like that and he not find it silly. "Do you need to throw up?"

"No." eyes still shut, placing a strand of hair behind her ear. "At least not right now." she murmured.

"Did you throw up already?"

"No. Thank god." she groaned.

He got up from the bed and walked over to the other end to grab the trash can and placed it next to the bed where she laid. "If you need to, the trash can is right here." he informed her, sitting back down.

"Thanks." she mumbled, licking her lips. "J?"

He blinked. He had been starring again. "Yeah?"

"Thanks for inviting us." opening her eyes. "It really got my mind off the whole Josh thing." she whispered. "Especially tonight. This is the first time all night that I've thought about him." she told him honestly, her cheek still pressed to the pillow.

"Your welcome." he answered back. "I'm glad you and Rach came." he paused again. "I've missed you."

She gave him a lazy smile before answering. "I've missed you too." closing her eyelids again. "I think I'm done for the night."

He let out a short chuckle. "Drinking?" he asked.

"Yep."

"Nicky?" he called out after a few moments of silence.

"Hmm?"

"You're better off without him." Justin whispered. He had been meaning to say that to her from the moment she had told him Josh had cheated on her. "There'll be plenty of other guys out there. Guys that will know you're worth the wait…" That had been the other thing about Josh, he wanted Nicole to have sex with him even though she had told him many times, she was not ready. When Nicole had shared that information with Justin a few weeks ago, he had been ready to kick some Josh ass.

She opened her eyes again, looking warmly at him. "Thanks J…" trailing off. "But it still kind of sucks." she said honestly.

"I know. But trust me, it will get better." he swallowed the lump in his throat. "It always gets better."

"Yeah…I know." she sighed. "Can you do me a favor?" she asked.

"What?"

"Can you help me take off my shoes?" grinning sheepishly at him. "I cant seem to make myself get up."
Justin rolled his eyes at her, but got up from the bed and made his way toward the end of the bed, untying her sneakers and slipping them off her feet, letting them drop to the floor. "I don't know what I would do without you." she whispered.

"You would be passing out with your shoes on." Justin joked, sitting down next to her. "You sure you don't need to throw up?" he asked worriedly.

"No." she said. "But thanks for being here and taking off my shoes, and for what you said about Josh."

"No problem, lightweight." he teased.

"You should lay down…" she mumbled with her eyes shut. "Keep me company." she said innocently.

"You're not going to throw up on me are you?" he asked her jokingly, but felt his heart jump at her request.

"No."

"You sure?" Already kicking his shoes off, and crawling next to her.

"Yes."

He laid on his back, looking up at the ceiling. "Just warned me if you begin to feel queasy."

"Okay." she said under her breath. "I'm good right now." Opening her eyelids again. "Is the room spinning for you too?"

Justin turned his head and faced her, a smirk on his face. "No." trying his best to contain his laughter. "Just close your eyes, and try to relax." he suggested.

She groaned. "Even with my eyes close, the room still spins." she explained, but doing what he asked and closing her eyes again.

Justin shifted his body, facing Nicole. He let his head rest on the pillow, as he starred intently at her. Wanting so bad to kiss her soft lips and trail his fingers along the side of her cheek. He sighed softly, hesitantly moving his hand closer to her, his heart racing a million miles an hour. Where had all this come from? When did she become so beautiful? Had it always been there and he never caught on to it? Or had he been in denial with himself about how he truly felt about her? All these questions and millions more ran through his head at that moment.

He gently moved the loose strand of her behind her ear, letting his fingertips linger on her skin for a few seconds longer. "The room still spinning?" breaking the silence.

"Just a little." She opened her eyes again, and Justin quickly moved his hand away from her cheek. She reached out and patted his cheek gently with her hand. "You're such a good friend J."

"I' am?" Noticing how her hand still rested on his cheek, enjoying how she absently rubbed her knuckles along his jaw. He had to keep telling himself, she was drunk and didn't realize what she was doing to him.

"Yes. I can always count on you to be here for me. Even when your so far away." She gave him a warm smile. "I really don't know what I would do without you. You're the best friend anyone could ask for." He watched her slowly lift her head up, leaning in to him, her thumb grazing his chin. She pressed her lips together, holding his gaze for a split second before brushing her lips against his cheek. Her lips lingering for a few moment, then moving away from him to fall back against the pillow.

Justin moved his head, his face hovering over hers. "When did you get so beautiful?" he blurted out, their mouths inches apart. He didn't wait for a response as he tilted her chin up and leaned closer. He kissed her so softly. She moaned against his mouth gripping on to his shirt, and pulling him closer to her.

Daydreamer
With eyes that make you melt
He lends his coat for shelter
Plus he's there for you
When he shouldn't be
But he stays all the same
Waits for you
Then sees you through…

Justin quickly clamped his hand over her wrist tightly. "Let me go." Her eyes filled wih pure fire. "I don't know where you get off thinking you can forbid me from-"

"I never said that." he said defensibly, the grip still on her wrist. The electricity between them, hitting him in the pit of his stomach. After all these years, the chemistry between them was still raw.

She tried to break from his grip, still glaring. "Fine. You never said it, but that's what you're trying to insinuate." she broke from his grip, eyes blazing. "You have no right to tell me who I can and can not see!" she exclaimed. "I'm not one of your damn employees you can boss around!" She shoved his chest again. "Fucking asshole." she spat out as she started to push past him.

Before she got a step away from him, Justin hands curled around her arms, pulling her back to face him. "Calm the fuck down." he said. Why were women always so damn over dramatic? Nicole glared. If looks could kill he would have dropped dead by now. "Cant you for once try and act like an adult?"

Nicole took in a shaky breath. "Let go Justin." she said through gritted teeth, her back pressed against the edge of the counter. Justin's fingers uncurled from her arms as she spoke up again. "Try and act like an adult? I'm not the one acting like a jealous old boyfriend." she accused.

Justin clinched his jaw. "You can be such a bitch sometimes." His body inches from hers.

He could hear the beating of her heart deep within her chest. "I'm not the one standing here, confessing-"

"Someone has to do it!" he said, his voice raising. His frustration getting the best of him.

"What?"

"You fucking act as if everything is perfectly fine between us. As if nothing has changed!" he yelled. "Like today at lunch-"

She furrowed her eyebrows at him. "What did you want me to do?! Did you want me to tell everyone at the table about what happen? Is that what you wanted?" she sucked in a large breath. "I'm done. I'm not going to do this. It leads us nowhere." she said, and pushed past him again, stomping toward the door. Justin quickly caught her, and that time she couldn't break from his grip.

"Nicole-"

"NO!" she yelled. "You cant just come out and blurt out all these things and expect me to be okay with it!" she paused for a second, her chest heaving. "I don't know what you expected me to say-"

"Will you just let me try and explain!" he exclaimed, his nails digging into her arm.

"But it doesn't change anything.-"

"Will you shut up-" he said gruffly, but she only raised her voice over his.

"-so I don't know what you're trying to prove. But its not going to fucking work."

"Are you listening to yourself?" he gritted out. Maybe, he wasn't the crazy one, maybe she was. She had to be. He wasn't trying to prove anything, all he wanted was to try and figure out where they stood. He hated the tension and awkwardness they had created. He expected her to reply back, instead she began to turn away.

"I'm tired of playing games."

Before she even knew what was happening, Justin quickly spun her back around, his tongue sliding forcefully into her mouth as his hands cupped her face roughly. He knew it was wrong, but he had lost all sense of right judgment at that moment. All he wanted, was her. He didn't care if it was wrong. He didn't care about the consequence, all he wanted at that moment was Nicole.

He heard a low whimper leave her lips as his fingers combed through her hair, gently gripping on the back of her neck as he tugged her head back to let his lips trail along her jaw. Desperate for a feel of her skin.

"Justin." she breathed breaking from his lips, her hands clutching to his shirt. A small part of her conscience knew what they were doing was wrong. But the thought quickly left her when he closed his mouth back over hers. His lips sucked on hers, as his warm and soft tongue licked at her teeth. This kiss was different than the last two. The first one had been unexpected, the second one had been sweet. But the kiss they were sharing right at that moment was passionate, raw, needy.

His hands slid down and gripped on to her hips, his fingers impatient for more of her. Every fiber of his body feeling as if it was on fire. A deep growl died on the tip of his lips as his hands slipped around to grip on her ass. She gasped in surprise when he pulled her up, lifting her up the floor. Instantly, Nicole locked her legs around his waist.

Her hands quickly went to his face, holding it in place as he stumbled back toward the counter, their lips still attached to each. She gasped again when he sat her up on the counter. Their mouths bumped and nipped eagerly at each other as Justin's fingers shakily worked on the buttons of the shirt she wore. Nicole wrapped her ankles around his waist and pulled him in closer to her. Her body aching for his expert touch.

"Jesus, Nicole…" he muttered as he got the last button undone and one hand slipped inside her exposed flesh and landed on her ribcage. She sat on his counter, shirt unbutton and opened, her breasts exposed to the cold air. He licked his lips as his eyes fell on her breasts, without thinking he cupped one in his masculine hand while his lips sucked on the crook of her. She moaned and it echoed loudly throughout the kitchen walls.

"Oh god Justin…" her whole body heaving from his touch. She whined softly as his mouth met hers again.

He moved the hand that had been on her ribcage back up to the back of her neck, once again tilting her head back, as his mouth kissed along the side of her jaw. It had been so long since he had seen Nicole this way. He had forgotten how good she looked and felt. He heard her moan again when his thumb rubbed on her hard nipple.

"I've missed having you like this." he whispered into her mouth. "I've missed you…" he said trailing off, as his lips devoured hers. His lips frantically needing to taste her, to feel her. He was so focused on her that at first he didn't feel the vibration in the pocket of his pants.

Nicole broke from his lips. "J?" pushing him back slightly. "Its-its your phone." she breathed. Hearing the buzz in his pants again.

"Ignore it." he told her, leaning back down to kiss her again. Nicole shook her head, and he placed a kiss on the side of her cheek instead. He sighed in frustration, but stood up straight again, as he slipped his hand into his pocket, gripping on to the vibrating phone. He frowned at her before he glanced down to see who was calling him.

All of a sudden he felt as if someone had tossed a bucket of cold ice down his spine when he saw the name blinking on the phone. He glanced back up at Nicole, and licked his lips nervously. She had a look on her face and he knew she knew who was calling. He took a step back from her and sucked in a large breath before finally answering.

"Hello?" He was a fucking idiot. He was fucking cheating idiot.

He felt his stomach turn when he heard Jessica's familiar voice. "Justin, baby I'm so sorry. I'm sorry about earlier today. It was a stupid fight." he heard her sniff. "I hate fighting."

Justin glanced back at Nicole. She had her head down, and was quietly buttoning back up the shirt. He blinked, and looked away. "Babe," he said into the phone. "Slow down."

He heard a sob. "I just don't want to fight anymore. And I'm just scared…"

"Scared of what?" He glanced back over at Nicole, and met her gaze for a split second. "Jess? Have you been drinking?" In spite of everything, he chuckled lightly. His girlfriend was drunk calling him. Who would have thought it?

He heard her sniff again. "Just a few…" she answered truthfully. "Some of my girlfriends came over after you left and convinced me to go out. But being out without you is no fun." she told him. "I don't ever want to be without you…" she told him. "I don't want to loose you."

"Whoa. Whoa. Who said that was going to happen?" he said, and rubbed the back of his neck with the palm of his hand.

"I just don't want us to get to the point where we cant stand each other. I love you so much." as she sniffed again.

Justin felt his heart squeeze as he listen to his girl. He swallowed the lump in his throat before he spoke. "I love you too." He heard her let out a shaky sigh. "Now go back inside with your girls and have fun." he urged. "I'll be at your place tomorrow morning to pick you up." He looked back over at Nicole, who had gotten herself off the counter and was tugging on the shirt nervously.

"Okay." was Jessica's response. "And we can talk." she told him.

He pressed his lips together. "And we can talk." he promised, watching Nicole from the corner of his eye. She turned her back to him and was almost to the door, Justin felt a sense of panic in his chest at the thought of her leaving. Before he even realized what he was doing he quickly made his way toward her, with the phone still to his ear and reached out for her hand.

Nicole jumped slightly and gasped in surprise at his touch. She looked wide-eyed at him. He looked pleadingly at her as he mouthed for her to not go. He felt like the biggest duesh bag. But he didn't want her to go. They needed to figure things out, and he knew that if he let her go right now. It would probably be another month before he got to talk to her again. Nicole had always been good at the avoidance game.

He was interrupted from his Nicole's thoughts when he heard Jessica's voice again. "Okay. I'll talk to you tomorrow. I love you." she said.

Justin winced at her words, but replied back. "I love you too." and with that they hanged up. He didn't deserve her. Not after what he had just done. God. What would have happened if she hadn't called? He glanced back over at Nicole. "Nic-" he started, still holding on to her hand.

She opened her mouth to speak, but shut it when they heard the light tap on the back door. Justin quickly let her hand go. They both knew who it was. She placed a strand of loose hair behind her ear and said without meeting his eyes. "I've been gone for a bit now." pressing her lips together. "He's probably wondering what happen." she whispered. "I'm going to go." she informed him and without waiting for a response turned her back to open the door.

Im back!! I know its been awhile, but its been kind of a hectic and emotional summer and havent really had my focus on the story, but I think I'm back and hope to have updates more often! Here is my first chapter in my comeback. LOL. I hope you enjoy!

Chapter 26

Slow Dancing in A Burning Room

Present

Memphis

Justin waited a few minutes before slipping into the empty seat next to Nicole at the dinner table late that Saturday night. He smirked, waiting on her to turn back in his direction. He leaned back against the chair, and reached out for his glass of whiskey, waiting patiently. He could scare her…but thought twice about doing it. He watched her from the corner of one eye as he brought the glass up to his lips and took a large swig of his beverage then glanced away from her when he heard his mom's laughter a few feet away.

Lynn stood at the other end of the table talking animatedly to Paul and Rachael. Justin smiled, watching both of his parents. They both looked happy, relieved, proud and satisfied after the events of earlier in the day. It had taken over a year of hard work, and dedication but the Mirimichi Opening had finally taken place earlier in the day and if he didn't say so himself, it had been a success. He only smiled bigger. And it meant so much more because it was something he could share and experience with his parents.

He placed the half empty glass back on the table. The alcohol slowly settling in his bones. Yes, this was another cool moment in his life he never thought would be possible. And after almost a whole day of being on the golf course- which he wasn't complaining about- himself along with his parents, his step-parents, grandparents and a few close friends were out at BBKing on Beale Street, celebrating the success of the day.

Damn, sometimes he forgot how much he missed home. He glanced away from his parents direction, his eyes falling to the back of Nicole's head. He wrinkled his nose, and looked over the top of her head, trying to see where her attention was focused on. He scanned the room, and instantly his eyes found the focus of her attention. Nicole's mother, Susan -stood a few feet away from the dinner table, talking to an older man. Justin chuckled under his breath. Things between him and Nicole had been strained in the past couple of months, but Justin still knew her, and he didn't need to see her face to know the type of expression that was painted on her features.

He leaned back against his chair at the same time Nicole turned around. She blinked in surprise when her eyes fell on Justin's face. "Jesus. You scared me!" she exclaimed.

Justin chuckled as he brought the glass back up to his lips. "That's not usually the type of response I get from most women." he teased.

Nicole wrinkled her nose and shot back. "I'm not most women." Justin snorted back his laughter, his eyes looking her up and down. Nicole shifted uncomfortably in her chair but narrowed her eyes at him as he opened his mouth to speak, then quickly shut it again. "What?" Nicole challenged.

Justin only shook his head, as he placed the glass back on the table. "Nothing." biting his tongue. He wasn't going to be a smart ass. Things between them were still a bit awkward, and he wasn't sure if he was willing to test out how much he could do to piss her off. Nicole raised an eyebrow as she responded with a "Hmph." sound. Justin resisted the urge to roll his eyes.

Then again, maybe it was exactly what they needed to break out of the awkward, yet sexual tension they had created over 2 and half months ago. Wow, had it really been that long since the kiss in his kitchen? It didn't feel 2 months ago, in fact it felt as if it just happened. Especially since it crossed his thoughts more than once or twice a day. He knew he should forget about it, but it was easier said than done. As wrong as it sounded he couldn't just make those thoughts, and images evaporate from his brain. Nicole's kisses and touch were not exactly the easiest things to forget. But he also knew he was tired of the small and strained talks they had shared in the past couple of months. It seemed like the moment she had walked out of the kitchen that night, their friendship had too. It wasn't as if it was the first time he had kissed her, or touched her, or breathed in her sweet scent…

But he knew things were different this time around. They had crossed the line they always told themselves they would never cross. And he knew that's why things were so weird. Neither one knew how to fix it, or even if they could fix it. They had technically cheated on their significant others. But damn it, even with all that, he missed his best friend. He missed talking to her and laughing with her. He missed being able to call her in the middle of day to tell her about the random things that were going on around him. It was simple, he just missed her.

He got out of the chair, and before he changed his mind, he said. "C'mon." extending his hand to her.

Nicole glanced up at him, a confused look on her face. "What?" one hand resting on top of her chair.

Justin glanced in the direction of the dance floor. "Lets dance." he stated. "I have a feeling you'll drive yourself crazy if you continue to stare any longer in that direction." Slightly nodding his head in the direction of Nicole's mom. "C'mon." he repeated, reaching out for her hand.

Nicole shook her head, a nervous laugh escaped her lips. "Justin…" she started.

Justin placed his hand over hers, ignoring the fact that she jumped when his fingers grazed her skin, he gave it a small squeeze and leaned down. "I don't bite Nic." he teased in a whisper. Nicole looked up, meeting his eyes in a long gaze. Justin swallowed the lump in his throat, the urge of telling her how much he wanted to kiss her at the tip of his tongue. Instead in a hoarse voice he said. "Dance with me."

"J-" she started again.

He raised an eyebrow and interrupted. "It's just dancing." he stated as he pulled her out of the chair and lead her in the direction of the dance floor. The familiar sound of the blues guitar hitting his eardrums and his heart. Nicole grudgley let him drag her, his fingers tangled in between hers, his grip tightening when she stopped for a split second. Justin glanced back at her over his shoulder and narrowed his eyes. He loosened the grip, waiting for her to walk away from him. But she didn't. He raised an eyebrow at her, she shrugged, a small smile tugging on her lips as they finally stepped unto the dance floor.

Justin let go of her hand, as they faced each other. He licked his lips, and took a moment before he wrapped one arm around her waist. He heard her take in a shaky breath, as she placed one arm over his shoulder. They locked eyes, and Justin swallowed. Maybe this was a mistake. But before he had the chance to think of what to say, he heard the applause and screams from everyone in the bar as the band ended their song.

"Alright, it seems we have a request." the lead singer announced in a loud southern accent. "Usually we don't do covers, but this young lady was adamant and wouldn't take no for an answer." he paused. "Plus, how can you say no to your own daughter?" he asked with a light chuckle. Everyone laughed, including Justin and Nicole. "It's a John Mayer cover." He paused again. "This one is dedicated to all those couples out there who feel like they are 'Slow Dancing in a Burning Room.'"

Justin laughed to himself as he heard the rift of the guitar. He pressed her body to him, she slightly gripped on to his shoulder with one hand, as he took her free hand and tangled his fingers with hers and brought it close to his chest. Nicole looked up at him through her lashes, as they slowly began to sway to the music.

She spoke up first. "Not exactly the song I imagined us dancing too." she mused.

That time Justin laughed out loud. "Yea, I was thinking the same thing." he paused for a second. "But did you expect anything else for us?"

She shook her head and gave a short laugh. "No."

Its not a silly little moment
Its not the storm before the calm
This is the deep and dyin breath of
this love we've been workin on

Justin chuckled lightly, pressing the palm of his hand tighter on the small of her back, as his eyes wondered around the dance floor. He looked back down at her, and caught her starring up at him. Justin only smirked when she quickly averted her eyes from him, and glanced over his shoulder. After a few seconds, Justin leaned in to her ear. "See? Nothing to worry about. We are not the only ones out here." he observed.

Nicole looked back up at him and wrinkled her nose. "I never said-" she started.

Justin stopped her. "You didn't have to Nicky. It was all over your face. No one is paying attention to us." he paused. "So relax." he suggested, as he pressed her warm body even closer to his. Hoping she couldn't hear how fast his heart was thumping within his chest. "I promise to keep my hands where people can see them." he joked into her ear, trying his best to lighten the moment.

"Very funny." she answered with a light laugh.

"I thought so."

"Yeah, well those hands have almost got us in trouble in the past." she reminded with a small frown.

Justin rolled his eyes. "Of course, only mine. Yours have always been innocent." he mocked as he absently rubbed the inside of her palm with his thumb. Damn, her palm was soft, just like her lips. Just like every part of her. He blinked back to the conversation at hand and said with an raised eyebrow. "Maybe you should keep your hands where people can see them."

Nicole glared. "That's wont be hard to do." she snapped back, but her hand shook as tried to untangle her hand from his.

"Why is that?" he asked but didn't expect a response, instead his thumb knuckle continued to rub the inside of her palm. He knew he was playing with fire. He knew he should just let her hand go and let his hand drop from around her waist, and just let her walk away. But a tiny of part of him was enjoying the fact that he could still make her nervous. Enjoying the idea that he could still make her squirm.

Cant seem to hold you like I want to
So I can feel you in my arms
Nobody's gonna come and save you
We pulled too many false alarms

"What's wrong?" he asked with a mischievous smile. Their bodies still moving to the music.

"I hate you." she hissed.

"I' am making you nervous?" he asked, ignoring her last comment. He could feel her heart racing. He knew he should stop. But he couldn't seem to make himself do it, not when he had her in his arms.

Nicole clinched her jaw and said through gritted teeth. "Let go Justin." Justin smiled sweetly down at her and only tighten his grip on her waist. She looked wide-eyed at him and gasped when she realized what she had just made contact with. "This is getting fucking ridiculous." she snapped. "I am not afraid to make a damn scene Timberlake." she threaten.

I was the one you always dreamed of
You were the one I tried to draw
How dare you say its nothing to me?
Baby, you're the only light I ever saw

"I know your not." Justin agreed, bending his head down, his mouth inches away from her. "But you would have done it already, if it bothered you so much." He knew he was pushing her buttons. He watched as she discreetly struggled to let her hand free from his. Justin loosened the grip deciding it was probably better this way. She surprised him.

Instead of watching her walk away from him, Justin watched her wrap both her arms around his neck, a low groan escaping his lips when her covered breasts crushed against his chest and her fingertips lightly grazed the back of his neck. He glanced down at her in shock and this time she had the mischievous smile on her face.

I'll make the most of all the sadness
You'll be a bitch because you can
You'll try to hit me just to hurt me
So you leave me feeling dirty
Cause you cant understand

"Fine." Nicole whispered. "Two can play this game." she stated, her breath tickling his face. She licked her lips. "Tell me J…" she started. " Would you be this comfortable if your girlfriend were here? Hmm?"

Justin regained his control and split second shock and replied. "I could ask you the same question. What if Chase where here?"

"But he's not." she retorted.

Justin pretended he didn't notice how close her mouth was when she spoke. "Neither is Jess." From the corner of his eye he looked out into the dance floor. So far, no one was paying attention to them. But damn it, he should have just stopped when he had the chance. Just like he knew her buttons, Nicole knew his. It was dirty little game they were playing now.

He watched her lick her lips again. "Oh. I'm sorry. I' am making you nervous now?" she whispered in his ear. She gasped when he tighten his grip on her waist. "That hurts." she said through her teeth.

"If you would just fucking relax…" he muttered.

"How do you expect me to-" she stopped herself, and paused for a moment, then after taking a deep breath she spoke up again. "You started this." she reminded. The tone of her voice changing. She sounded almost scared. He knew right then and there that she was done with the charade they had been playing a few moments earlier. "I didn't want to come out here. You dragged me." He looked over at her. "This is stupid." She said out loud- almost to herself with a shake of her head. Justin eased his grip on her waist. He knew she was right. "Aren't you scared of people wondering what the hell we're doing?" she asked as her eyes wondered around the smoky room.

"We're just dancing Nicky." he said in a low voice.

She snorted. "Right. That's exactly what we are doing."

Justin smirked. "I just wanted to dance. But you had to go and make it all tense and shit." he accused. It still amazed him how they could go from one moment to the next in 10 seconds flat. At times it reminded him of the ocean. One moment they were calm, the next moment it was as if the waves wouldn't stop crashing.

"That's not true!" she said defensively.

"Yes it is." he said with a nod. "Do you realize this is the first time in 2 months we've had a conversation in which our answers aren't one worded?" he asked. Nicole glanced away from him, biting on her lower lip. "Or tense." he observed.

Nicole glanced around them before speaking in a hushed tone. "J-what we did was-"

"That's the thing Nicky- nothing happened." he reminded.

Nicole's jaw dropped. "What do you mean-nothing happened?" she exclaimed.

Justin sighed. "Okay, okay. That's not true." closing his eyes for a second, trying his best to get the image of Nicole on his kitchen counter, shirt unbutton and in only panties out of his head. "It happened. And there is nothing we can do to change it. And I know things were going to be weird with us, but damn it Nicole the moment you walked out of the kitchen that night I felt like our friendship went out too." he said honestly. "And as much as I hate to admit it-I miss you." a small smile on his face. "And I know you miss me." he told her knowingly.

She rolled her eyes at his last comment but said. "I'll admit it, I have missed… talking to you." She locked eyes with him. "But-"

"But what?" he asked.

"That cant happen again J." she whispered. "I mean, it just cant."

Justin nodded in agreement. "I know. Believe me, I know." He said as his hands rubbed the small of her back. "But it did. And now we just have to move from it. That's all we can do."

And you know that we're doomed
My dear, we're slow dancing in a burning room

"But you cant just go and fucking ignore me." he said half-teasingly.

"You were doing it too." Nicole stated. "You could have talked to me sooner about this." she said.

Justin snorted back is laughter. "Right. Because that's always been so fucking easy to do with you." he retorted. "Because talking to you about this kind of shit has always been a walk in the park." he said sarcastically. "Why do you think I dragged you out here for?"

Don't you think we oughta know by now?
Don't you think we should have learned somehow?


Lyrics credited to John Mayer's Slow Dancing in A Burning Room