I guess you could say I'm not your everyday American girl. I am 25 years old & have aleady made more money selling songs than most American's could only ever dream of making. I have lived in this suburb of Nashville all of my life, but I finally bought my own home a year ago when I sold my first song. I had everything a girl could ever want in life, except love. Now one may ask how a young girl, such as myself, could write such amazing songs about being in love when I have never once experienced it. If you ask me, I would tell you that the songs were just about what I have always imagined it would be like to feel that way about someone. To love them so unconditionally that you would do anything for them. I have only ever been in one relationship. A boy named Billy that I have known most of my young life. We grew up together & attended school together, but he got his big break a few years ago & left me behind. If you ask me, I'll tell you that even though I spent 2 years with Billy, it had never really been love. It had been a relationship out of convienience. We had been best friends all through our school years & had decided to try something new. I've never once regretted that decision, instead I learned from it. It only made me long for love even more though. Little did I know that a warm July evening would change my entire life forever.

***

The sun was hot & I wanted nothing more than to go home from the studio & work on my next big hit. Sure, I wasn't an artist by any means. Sure, I could be. I actually had an amazing voice, or so I've been told, but I loved being the one behind the scenes. The one that writes the songs that give people their big break. It makes me feel good. Today was just like any other day. Here I was in the studio recording some demos to send out to different record executives. "Rick, I think I'm done for the day. I'm exhausted. I think I'm just going to go home & write some more."

"Alright, Sara. Sounds good. Another amazing hit awaits in that brilliant brain of yours, I'm sure," Rick said to me. Richard Martis, or Rick as he was known, had been working with me for a couple of years now. He was one of those guys that could hear a hit in the first few notes of the song. He was also the first one to suggest that I start recording my own demos. He really felt as though my voice should be heard.

I chuckled as I gathered my things. "Thanks, Rick. It's been a pleasure, as always. I will give you a call tomorrow."

"Have a safe drive home," I heard him say as I walked out the doors of the studio where they'd been working. I threw my laptop bag & purse in the back seat of my car & made my way home. It had been a long, yet productive day.

***

It was a short 20 minute drive back to the subdivision that I call home. I love my cozy 2 story brick home. It is everything I've ever dreamed of owning when I was younger. It has a beautiful wrap around porch that I spend many nights out on writing. I looked up and noticed that a couple of doors down there was a moving van parked out front. "Hmm, I guess they finally sold that house," I said to no one in particular. The house had been on the market for months. It was a beautiful house, but definitely too big for just one person to live in. I turned off the engine & gathered my things & headed into the house.

I walked though the front door & sat my things down on the foyer table. I hit the button on my answering machine. I had two messages; one was from my Mom & the second from my best friend, Kelly. "I'll call them back later," I said out loud. I had been going over some lyrics in my head & I really just wanted to get pen to paper. I grabbed my notebooks & headed out onto the front porch. I took a seat in my favorite chair & looked around. I couldn't help but notice the gentleman that was still moving boxes from the van to the house down the street. I couldn't really make out what he looked like, but curiousity had gotten the best of me I found myself sitting there, staring. There seemed to be something about this man that intrigued me, but what? I hadn't a clue. I shrugged off the thoughts running through my head & began to write furiously in my notebook & within a few minutes I had written an entire verse & chorus. When I looked back up from my work, the man next door had disappeared into his new home. I really didn't know what it was about him that struck curiousity in me, but I felt like I wanted to find out. I wanted to get to know the man next door.

***

The next morning I awoke at my normal time & prepared myself for my morning run. Little did I know today would change my life forever. I put my earphones on & went about my business. I must not of been paying attention to where I was going. Next thing I knew I had ran into someone & had fallen down on the pavement. I looked up & pulled my earphones out. There he was. "Oh my goodness, I am so sorry. I was not looking where I was going." He reached his hand out to me.

He chuckled. "It's okay. Here let me help you up." Once I was back on my feet he introduced himself. "Hi, I'm Nick. I just moved in down the street."

"It's nice to meet you. I'm Sara. Sara Thomas."

"Sara Thomas, as in THEE Sara Thomas."

I looked at him. It wasn't often that I was recoginized just by my name. "So you've heard of me?"

"Well yeah, you've written some of the best songs to come out in years. I've admired your work for years."

"Oh yeah? Are you a musician?"

"I've dabbled in the art. I've never really managed to break through though. I moved here from Florida in hopes to get my music heard."

"Do you sing or are you just a songwriter?"

"I do a little of both. The songwriting is new to me." He told me. He was a man after my own heart.

"Well, I'm working on a new song right now if you'd like to give me a hand."

"Really? I'd love that." Was I a crazy person? I had only just met this guy & already I was inviting him over for a songwriting session.

"How about this evening?"

He smiled. That smile, wow. "Sounds great. I'll come by around 7?"

I nodded. "Yeah, sounds great." With that, I turned and headed back to my house. I had officially gone insane & my morning run was no longer a top priority. I needed to figure out these thoughts that were running through my head. I grabbed my phone & quickly dialed my best friend's number.

"Sara! It's about time you called back, girlie!" Kelly said.

I laughed. "Hey Kel. Sorry, I was exhausted last night. So uhm, I actually need some advice."

"Need some assistance on a song?" Kelly was a fellow songwriter. We had written together several times. She had decided to record her own album though, & was currently going through that process.

I sighed. "Well, not exactly. It's actually about a guy."

"A guy? Sara Nicole, are you telling me you've FINALLY found someone that meets your high standards?"

I laughed. "Kelly, this is serious. I've only spoken to him once & he's turned my brain to mush. And get this, he's an aspiring songwriter. Not too mention he's absolutely gorgeous."

Kelly started laughing at me. "So Little Miss Sara Thomas has a crush...."

"Oh shush, it's not a crush. He's coming over later to work on that song I have been stuck on."

"Great! I think this is just what you need, Sara. In all seriousness, you're 25 years old. It's time you actually take a chance with someone instead of just writing songs about it."

I rolled my eyes, even though I knew she couldn't see me. I've never been one to date. I'd dated around, but it always ended awkwardly at my front door. "Let's not jump to conclusions here, Kel. I just need to know that I can count on you for moral support because honestly no one has ever affected me this way upon first meeting them before. I'm absolutely clueless as to why."

"I promise, I'll be supportive. Call me later after he leaves & give me all the details."

"Okay, Kel. Talk to ya later."

"Bye Sara." I hung up the phone & sat it down on the coffee table. I collapsed on the couch & sighed. What had I gotten myself into?

I spent a majority of the day tweaking a song I had been writing for the past couple of weeks. That & I was still thinking about my encounter earlier. I only had about a half an hour before Nick was going to be over. Nick... I didn't even know his last name & I'd already invited him over. I really had lost my mind. He could be some psychotic murderer for all I knew. Nah, he was way too gorgeous to be like that. Hmmm, maybe Kelly was right. Maybe I do have a crush on him. That just sounds so incredibly childish to say. I won't lie though, I am looking forward to getting to know him better. And no, not that way.

***

It was about 7:08 when I heard a gentle knock on my front door. Yes, I had been watching the clock. I took my time getting to the door to answer because quite frankly I didn't want to seem too eager, even though my heart felt like it was going to pound right out of my chest. I'd made sure not too get to dressed up, considering we were just going to be working at my home studio. I'd thrown on a pair of low-cut jeans & a pink babydoll t-shirt. I made my way to the door to let Nick in. "Hi." I said as I opened the door. "Welcome to my humble abode."

He laughed; his laugh was absolutely contagious, as was that damn smile of his. "Why thank you. It's good to see you again, and not having to pick you up off the pavement."

I could feel my cheeks flushing; I could only hope he wouldn't notice. "Yeah, what a great first impression right? Clumsy, little Tennessee girl."

There was that smile again. "You definitely made it so I couldn't get you out of my mind all day, that's for sure. Now, you said you wanted to work on a song together?"

I had nearly forgotten the entire reason for inviting him over. "Oh yeah, I've got everything set up in the studio downstairs, you can head on down. I'm just going to grab us a couple bottles of water. The door to the basement is right at the end of that hallway there." I pointed him the right direction & made my way to the kitchen to grab the water. "Get it together, Sara. You're acting like a lovestruck teenager." I said outloud to myself. With a sigh I grabbed the waters from the refrigerator & headed downstairs myself.

Nick, whom I still didn't know his last name, had already made himself comfortable on one of the couches & was looking through a notebook he'd brought. I'm sure it held some of his work and such. He looked up from it when he heard me walk in. "This is a great set-up you've got here."

I sat the waters down on the table. "Thanks, I worked hard to get to this point."

"I can believe that."

I took a seat on the couch next to him & pulled out my notebook. I opened it to the latest song, I'd been writing. "So this is what I have so far, I just started this one yesterday. I just am feeling it should be more of a duet. A guy & a girl. Can you give me your opinion?"

He took the notebook from my hand & read over the lyrics I'd written. "These lyrics are great. Can I hear you sing them?"

I smiled. "I suppose, but I don't sing for just anyone, ya know?" I gave him a little wink & got up to grab my guitar. "Now remember, I wrote this to be a duet. So this first verse would be the guy's verse, then the girl's." I sat back down & began to play & sing the words.

"Everybody keeps telling me I'm such a lucky man
Lookin at you standin there I know I am
Barefooted beauty with eyes that blue
The sunshine sure looks good on you
I swear

Oh I can't believe I finally found you baby
Happy ever after, after all this time
Oh there's gonna be some ups and downs
but with you to wrap my arms around
I'm fine

So baby, hold on tight
Don't let go
Hold onto the love we're making
Cause baby when the ground starts shakin
You gotta know when you've got a good thing"

I finished the end of the chorus & looked up at him. He had a look of awe on his face. "Sara, that is amazing. You have an incredible voice."

There came that blush on my cheeks again. Sure, I had been told many times that I had an amazing talent, but for some reason hearing it from him made me feel amazing. "Well, thank you Nick. I appreciate that."

"Sara, you need to record this song when you're finished writing it. It suits your voice so well."

"I don't know, Nick. I'm more of a songwriter, not a singer. Besides, who would record it with me?"

"Me?"

"You? Really?"

"Yeah. I mean, not too sound too conceited, I'm pretty good."

I smirked. "Oh yeah?" He nodded. "Lemme hear it then. I'll play, you sing."

He smiled. "Deal."

***

The next few hours we sat there writing & singing together. He wasn't lying when he said he was good. He was actually pretty amazing. How he hadn't really caught his big break, as he'd said, was beyond me. He was better than most of these so called "singers" out there today. It was well past midnight when we decided to call it a night.

"I had a really great time tonight, Sara. Think about what I said though, I'd be happy to record your song with you once you finish it." He told me as we stood on my front porch.

I smiled. "I'll consider it. Don't be a stranger now, okay?"

"I wouldn't dream of it. You've got my number, call me anytime."

"Goodnight, Nick."

"Night Sara." With that he made his way home. I walked back inside my house, shutting the door & leaning up against it. I let out a frustrated sigh. I still didn't know the guy's last name, but tonight I'd fallen for him just a little bit more. Suddenly, Kelly's words from earlier were ringing through my mind. Had I really finally met someone that met my standards? I'd never really wanted to let anyone in before, but for him, I just might.

Chapter Three

"So...." Kelly said in a drawn out tone. "How was last night? Did you two make some magic?" Kelly & I had decided to meet up at a coffee shop downtown that morning. No doubt because she wanted to tease me & find out all the not so juicy details of my songwriting rendevous with Nick the night before.

"He wants to record my song with me. You know, the duet I've been working on the past couple of days." I took a sip of my latte.

"And that's bad because....."

I sighed. "Kel, I'm not a singer. I'm a songwriter, that's what I was born to do. I just can't picture myself being in the spotlight like that."

She sat up a little straighter. "Look, I'm going to give you some advice that someone gave me a while back before I decided to take the plunge & record. You only live once, you have to live life to it's fullest & leave no stone unturned. I think that you'd be crazy not to just go for it. So you record an album; the worst thing that could happen would you wouldn't get picked up by anyone. Then you just go back to your life of songwriting & late night jam sessions with your new neighbor." She gave me a little wink.

I could feel the smile spreading across my face. "You do have a way with words, don't ya Kel?" I laughed.

"Of course, I do. So what do ya say? Are you going to do it?"

I sat there for a second. "He does have a pretty great voice & we do sound really good together."

"Well, then I think you have your answer."

I shook my head. "I can't believe I'm going to do this. I've never been this spontaneous in my entire life."

"I'm very proud of you."

"Now I just have to finish out the lyrics to the song, guess I'll be working on that tonight."

"I think I can help you with that." I heard a voice from behind me say. I turned around to find Nick standing there.

"Uhm, hi. I didn't see you come in."

"I'm stealthy like that," he chuckled. He motioned towards the empty seat at our table. "Mind if I join you ladies?"

"No, no...absolutely not. Have a seat. Kelly, this is Nick. Nick, this is my best friend & fellow songwriter, Kelly Nye."

He held out his hand to her. "It's a pleasure."

She shook his hand. "Likewise. So you're the infamous Nick that my friend here can't stop talking about."

He looked at me & grinned. "Oh yeah, good things, I hope."

I knew by now I was probably a bright shade of red. "Oh of course. We were just talking about how Sara here is excited to be recording her duet with you."

My eyes widened as his smile grew bigger. "Oh yeah? Well, that's just the best news I've heard all day."

"Yeah, well, Kelly can be very convincing." I said.

"So Nick, is it just 'Nick' or do you have a last name?" Kelly bluntly asked, causing me to nearly spit out the drink I had just taken.

He laughed. "Carter. My last name is Carter."

"Nick Carter. Sounds vaguely familiar," Kelly spoke. I just looked at her with a confused expression.

"Well ladies, it's been fun, but I have some errands to run today." He stood up to leave before turning to me. "Sara, I'm honored that you're going to record with me. Give me a call & we'll set up a studio date. I have a feeling this is going to be life changing for the both of us."

"Thanks, Nick. I sure will." And with that he was gone. It was odd that he picked that particular moment to make his exit, but I shrugged it off. After all, I'd never heard of Nick Carter. It was just another name to me.

"He seems very nice, Sara. You picked a good one."

"I didn't pick anyone. We're just friends - collegues." I started to gather my things. "I have to go to the studio to meet up with Rick & give him then news. Would you like to tag along?"

She gathered her things as well. "No, I have a meeting myself to get to, but I'll call you later tonight." We said our goodbyes & went on about our day. I suddenly felt very relaxed & happy about my decision to record with Nick. Maybe taking it to the next level wouldn't be the worst thing in the world; recording my music, that is.

***

I walked into the downtown studio that I typically always worked in with Rick, hoping that he'd be in. Sure enough, I saw him leaning over the mixing table when I walked in. "Hey Rick."

He turned and looked at me. "Sara! What a great surprise. I wasn't planning to see you in here until next week or so." He got up & came over to give me a hug.

"Yeah, I kind of need to talk to you about something." I sat my purse down on the table & took a seat on the couch. He sat down next to me.

"What's up, Miss Sara?" He looked at me with concern.

I took a deep breath. "Well, I think I've decided to record one of my songs."

"You record your songs all the time for the demos, Sara."

I shook my head. "No, I mean, like actually record it & try to release it as my own."

"Oh really? That's great news, Sara. What made you finally decide this? You know I've been telling you to do it since the first day I heard you sing."

"Well, this guy moved in a couple doors over from me & he's an aspiring songwriter. We had a little writing session at my place last night & well, he convinced me. I want to do it as a duet with him."

He nodded his head. "Is this guy worthy of singing with the amazingly, talented Sara Thomas?"

I smiled & nodded. "Yeah, I really think so." In my head I meant that in more ways than one.

"Well then, when would you like to come in? Do you have the song finished?"

"No, not quite yet. I've got another verse to write, then it'll be complete."

"Well, I'll tell you what...how about you run on home & work on that song, then give me a call when you're ready to come in. I've got a few sessions set up with this group this week, but after that I'm open."

I stood up, as did he. "Okay, Rick. Thank you so much for being supportive."

He gave me another hug. "Honey, I'm going to be your biggest fan. You know that."

I smiled, grabbed my purse & was on my way.

***

Chapter Four

(Told from Nick's POV)

The past couple of days had been some of the strangest I'd ever experienced. I'd just purchased a new home in Nashville, where I'd lived once before & we were now recording songs for our next album, and I just so happened to move in a couple houses over from the amazing songwriter, Sara Thomas. To say that I thought it was fate would just be crazy, considering after all I'd been through I didn't believe in it. I will say that something told me to buy that house & I'm glad that I did. Sara & I had spent some time together, jamming in her home studio. It may sound strange, but I really don't think she knows who I am; that or she's just really good at pretending. Either way, she doesn't treat me like I'm anything different than a normal human being & I kind of like that. Oh, and have I mentioned she's pretty damn hot? Oh, I haven't? It must of slipped my mind. That girl is gorgeous! She's been working on this song, it's a duet; and guess who has volunteered to be the male vocal in that song? Yep, you guessed it: Me. It's going to be off the charts amazing to record with her, she's got the most beautiful voice I've ever heard. That's saying a lot.

***

I pulled up the studio, quickly seeing Brian & AJ standing outside talking. I parked my car & walked up to them. "Hey guys, D not here yet?" They both shook their heads. "You mean, we all actually beat him here? I'm shocked."

"I know! There's a first time for everything, I guess." Brian exclaimed with a laugh.

"I guess we can head on in & get started without him," I suggested.

AJ nodded. "Yeah, I talked to him a few minutes ago & he said he should be here in like 20 minutes. It shouldn't be much longer anyway."

The three of us headed into the studio & were greeted by a very attractive young blonde that was sitting at the front desk. "Hello, we've got an appointment with Mr. Richard Martis." Brian told the girl. She began typing away on her computer.

"Oh yes, I see it here. Let me just go make sure he's ready for you guys," the blonde said & hurriedly made her way down the hallway. She couldn't of been more than 5'4" & she probably weighed 95 pounds. I glanced over at AJ & could practically see the drool running down his chin.

"She's probably way to young for you, J." I laughed. I noticed Blondie approaching us.

"Shut up, Carter. Age is just a number."

I shook my head & rolled my eyes. "Mr. Martis is ready for you guys, follow me." She lead us down the hallway & opened the last door on the left. There was a pepper haired gentleman sitting at the sound board. I figured it must have been Mr. Martis. He stood & turned to face us when we walked into the room.

"Thank you, Ellie. Please hold my calls for the next couple hours," he told her. She nodded & left the room. "Now, you guys must be the Backstreet Boys."

"Yeah, well at least three of them. We're still waiting on Howie, he got stuck in traffic," Brian told him.

"Well, that's fine, we'll just get started with the rest of you guys."

We went to work with Rick, as he told us to call him, & Howie had arrived about 15 minutes after we did. After spending about 3 1/2 hours in the box I was so ready to go home, or well maybe I was just ready to see her. She had no doubt struck a chord with me & I found myself wanting to spend time with her. The only problem was I hadn't told her who I was yet. She didn't seem to know & I was kind of nervous that when she did find out that she'd be angry I didn't tell her. I had joined her & another songwriter for coffee a couple days ago and I really think that her friend had recognized me, especially after I told her my name. I could only hope that Sara wouldn't be mad. This was all so new and exciting, I just didn't want to screw up something that could turn into the greatest thing in my life.

Finally, at 8:15 that evening, 6 hours & 15 minutes after we had arrived at the studio, we wrapped for the day. I wanted nothing more than to just go see her, but I knew she was probably hard at work in her studio working on our song. I didn't want to interrupt her so I got in my car & headed home. I checked my phone & smiled when I saw a text message from her.

Hi Nick. Just wanted you to know that I finished the song & I've set up a studio time for next week. I'm calling it an early night, but maybe we can get together tomorow. Goodnight.

Yes, this was the start of something amazing.

***

The next morning I was due back in the studio with the guys at 8 am. I forced myself to roll out of bed with just enough time for a quick 10 minute shower & then I was on my way. I arrived at the studio at 7:59 am. I rushed in & stopped in my tracks when I saw Sara standing there talking to Ellie at the receptionist desk. "Shit," I muttered quietly. I hadn't wanted her to find out who I was yet. I wanted to just be 'Nick' for a little while longer, but when I noticed Ellie looking at me I knew this was it.

"Nick, hi. Welcome back." Ellie said. At the sound of the name 'Nick' Sara turned around, her mouth slightly open.

"Nick? What are you doing here?" she asked.

"Uh..." I said. Suddenly, I had forgotten how to talk. I felt like a complete idiot.

That's when Ellie spoke up. "Nick is here recording with Rick."

"But...Nick, can I speak to you in private please?" Sara said. I just nodded & followed her outside to the front of the studio. "What's going on? You're recording? I don't understand."

"Sara, I didn't want you to find out like this. I promise I was going to tell you. I was just enjoying the fact that for once someone actually didn't know who I was." I sighed.

"What are you talking about?" she asked.

"Have you heard of a group called the Backstreet Boys?"

"I've heard of them, sure. I couldn't tell you which one was which though."

"Well, I'm one fourth of that group."

She stood there for a second, staring at me like I had two heads; no doubt trying to put two & two together. "But you said you tried the singing thing & never really got your big break. From what I can tell the Backstreet Boys are a pretty huge group. Why on earth would you lie to me about that?" She was pacing. I'm guessing that's something she did when she was upset. She didn't give me a chance to answer before she stopped pacing & started rambling again. "We barely know each other as it is, what difference would it of made if you told me? Do you think it would of made me turn away from you? I work with celebrities on a daily basis, Nick. It doesn't bother me. I wouldn't of treated you any differently."

I sat down on a bench that was nearby. "Sara, I'm sorry. Please, you have to just understand what it's like to finally meet someone that wanted to talk to me because of me, not because I am a member of one of the biggest selling music groups in history." She took a seat next to me. "Look, I really like you. I think you're great & I really am looking forward to working with you. Please don't let my stupidity screw that up." Brian took that moment to poke his head outside.

"Yo, Carter. We need you in here." He said.

"Yeah, yeah, I'll be right there." I replied . He nodded, seeing me standing there talking to Sara. "Can we please talk later, Sara? I could come by after I'm done here."

She nodded. "Yeah. Just text me when you're finished & we'll meet up."

I couldn't help the smile that spread across my face. "Thank you, Sara." We both stood up & I gave her a hug. "I'm really sorry I lied to you though."

She chuckled. "Well, I guess you'll just have to make it up to me then." I looked at her.

"I don't think that'll be an issue. I'll talk to you later. Bye Sara."

"Bye Nick. Have a good session." With that I turned & headed back inside. It looked like I had dodged a bullet for now. She hadn't taken off running yet, maybe there was more to this than even I knew. Only time would tell.

Chapter 5

"So, guess what?" I told Kelly as we sat eating lunch in downtown Nashville. I had called her right after I left the studio & had my latest encounter with Nick. I really liked the guy, but the fact that he had somewhat lied to me was a bit of a turn-off. I didn't want to jump to conclusions to quickly though, so I'd given him the benefit of the doubt & agreed to talk later.

"What?" she asked me.

"Well, Nick Carter is actually Nick Carter, World Famous Musician."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you said that his name sounded familiar yesterday, right?" She nodded. "Ok, well I ran into him again this morning at the studio. He was there recording with his group - the Backstreet Boys."

Her eyes widened. "Are you kidding me? That's who he is? I wouldn't know who those guys were if it weren't for my little sister, but wow. I can't believe he wouldn't just tell you that, what did he think you were going to do, run? You deal with people like him all the time."

Now it was my turn to nod. "Yep. That's exactly what I told him. His true identity doesn't change anything. I still think he's a nice guy & I am still going to record with him. I just wish he hadn't of kept that from me."

"You talk like the two of you are an item," she laughed.

"Well, we're not. I've only known him a couple of days."

"If you want to know my opinion, I think he's got a thing for you & he was really afraid that you'd find out who he was and would want nothing to do with him. He really doesn't have the best reputation when it comes to relationships from what I've heard."

"I didn't ask for your opinion though, did I?" I told her. I hadn't even known Nick for a week yet & Kelly probably already had us picking out china patterns. "It's not like anything is going to come from this. We'll record the song for the album & that will be that. We'll go our seperate ways."

"Except for the fact that he lives on your street, Sara. Seeing him is going to be unavoidable."

I sighed. She was right. I would have to see him. I didn't know if she was right about him having a thing for me though, but I did know that whenever he was around I wasn't myself. I hadn't ever really thought about falling in love, unless you count the songs I've written, until I met him that morning. Now he was on my mind constantly & I found myself daydreaming about what it would be like. "What have I gotten myself into, Kel?"

"I don't know, hun." She said. "It's not the end of the world though. Maybe it's God's way of saying it's time for you to actually live out those songs you've been writing for years."

She did have a point. "I think I'll just take this whole thing one day at a time. I'm supposed to see him tonight to talk. I finished the song & I really want him to hear the final product before we go record it next week."

"I think this is going to be a good experience for you, Sara. I really do."

I laughed. "We'll see."

***

Later that night I received a phone call from Nick saying he was on his way over. It was probably a good 30 minutes before he arrived and we headed down to my studio. I had told him I'd finished the song & he was eager to hear what I'd come up with. Like a couple nights before I picked up my guitar & played along as I sang. He stopped me about halfway through.

"I think we need to practice together. I'll sing my verses, you sing yours & we'll see how it comes out." He told me. I nodded. I began to play again & he began to sing.

Everybody keeps telling me I'm such a lucky man
Lookin at you standin there I know I am
Barefooted beauty with eyes that blue
The sun shine sure looks good on you
I swear

I couldn't help but stare as he sang directly to me. It gave me chills. Then it was my verse.

Oh I can't believe I finally found you baby
Happy ever after, after all this time
Oh there's gonna be some ups and downs
but with you to wrap my arms around
I'm fine

He stared intently at me as I sang. It should have made me nervous, but instead it made me feel something I'd never felt before. Then came the chorus & we both sang it together.

So baby, hold on tight
Don't let go
Hold onto the love we're making
Cause baby when the ground starts shakin
You gotta know when you've got a good thing

Then we started our second verses, first Nick & then me.

You know you keep on bringin out the best of me
And I need you now even more than the air I breathe

Then we went back into the chorus:

So baby, hold on tight
Don't let go
Hold onto the love we're making
Cause baby when the ground starts shakin
You gotta know when you've gotta good thing

We got a good thing, baby, woah
So hold on tight
Baby, don't let go
Hold onto the love we're making
Cause baby when the ground starts shakin
You gotta know, oh you gotta know
Oh you gotta know, you gotta know
When you got a good thing

We got a good thing baby

I'm not sure when it happened but we both ended up standing in front of the couch at some point during the song & at some point we'd gotten very close. If it weren't for the guitar I had around my neck, we probably would've been touching. At the last line of the song he put his hands on either side of my face. He sang the line & that's when it happened. He leaned in and ever so slightly his lips met mine. He quickly pulled away and stared at me. "I...I'm so sorry. I must've got caught up in the song," he said to me. He was still standing just as close. I lifted the guitar strap over my head & gently placed the guitar down on the couch. "Why aren't you saying anything, Sara? Are you okay?" He took a step back. I just shook my head.

"I, uhm, I need to see something," I told him & he narrowed his eyes at me.

"Uhm, okay. What's going on?" I didn't respond to him. I just stepped closer to him, grabbed the sides of his head and pulled his face to mine. I don't know what had taken over me, but I knew I had to go for it. He took the hint & deepened the kiss, we stood that way for a couple of minutes before finally pulling apart from each other. He sat on one end of the couch & I took a seat on the coffee table I had sitting in front of it. "I didn't see that coming." He said, finally breaking the silence.

"I, uhm, I really don't know what came over me. I, uhm..." I stuttered, still breathless from the kiss.

He smiled. "It's okay, I kinda liked it."

I gave him a look. "Kinda?"

He laughed. "Okay, I loved it....a lot." He stood up, standing in front of me, pulling me to my feet. "I'm pretty sure we should try that again." I smiled as he leaned down to kiss me again. If I was dreaming I really didn't want to wake up.

***

Song Lyrics: "When You Got A Good Thing" - Lady Antebellum (YouTube It!)

Chapter 6

I woke up the next morning with a huge smile on my face. The night before had been something out of a romance novel. Had it really happened? Had we kissed? It hadn't been planned, it was just like a spark was ignited between us. I couldn't control myself. I climbed out of bed & made my way to the bathroom to get ready for my day. I had a few meetings to get to. I looked at myself in the mirror & smiled. My lips were still swollen & puffy from last nights events. I couldn't stop thinking about it...or about him for that matter. Still I knew I had to get on with my day & maybe, if I were lucky I'd see him again tonight.

***
"Someone is certainly in a good mood today," Ellie pointed out when I walked into the studio this morning. I just smiled and nodded.

"I guess you could say that." I told her. "Is Rick in yet? I need to go over some things with him & the song I'm recording next week."

She shook her head. "No, he's not here yet. I am expecting him at anytime though because he has one last session set up with the Backstreet Boys in just about an hour."

I smiled. He was going to be there. Could this day get any better? "Oh really? That's great. I'll just wait in his office if you don't mind. I have a few phone calls to make anyway."

She nodded. "That's fine. I'll let him know you're here as soon as he gets in."

I thanked her & made my way down the hallway to Rick's office. I took a seat in one of the chairs he had strategically placed throughout the room & pulled out my cell phone to call my Mom. I hadn't talked to her in a few days & I'm sure she'd love to hear the latest gossip. She picked up after only 2 rings. "Sara Marie! I've missed you, sweetheart! How is the big city treating you?"

I laughed. "Hey Mom. It's treating me good. You're not that far away, ya know? You could come for a visit anytime."

I could tell she was nodding her head as if I could see her. It was a trait that I'd inheritated from her. "I know, babygirl. I just can't leave your brothers & sisters here alone, they're liable to kill one another." I had 4 younger siblings, 2 brothers, 2 sisters. The youngest being only 6 years old; she wasn't planned at all, but she was never looked at as a 'accident', more of a blessing.

"That's certainly true."

"So why have you called, honey? I know it's not just to sweet talk your Momma, even though I love it when you call."

I smiled to myself. "I actually decided to record a single & I'm hoping to get it released to radio."

"Really? That's great, sweetheart! What's the song?"

"Well, I just wrote it over this past week. It's a love song..."

"Of course it is...." she interrupted. "Always singing those love songs when you should be out living 'em."

"Momma, really...You know I've been too busy to think of dating."

"I know, I know. So how does the song go?"

"Well, it's actually a duet...I'm singing it with this guy I just met a few days ago."

That grabbed her attention. "A guy you say? And just what may I ask is this guy's name?"

I smiled to myself. "Nick, his name is Nick. He's so amazing, Momma."

"I think there's a little more to this than just a duet, isn't there, Sara?" She asked. She knew me too well. That & I am pretty sure I was still gushing from last night.

"Honestly...I'm not really sure yet. I wouldn't be opposed to the idea though." I told her. "I'm just anxious to see where things go."

"Well, honey, I'm happy for you, just take things slow. No sense in jumping into something & messing up a good thing." I smiled at her choice of words. I'd decided to call our duet 'When You've Got A Good Thing'. It suddenly seemed very appropriate. At that moment I heard the door to Rick's office opening.

"I have to go, Mom, Rick just walked in."

"Alright, sweetheart. I'll talk to you again soon." We said our goodbyes & hung up the phone. I stood up & turned around to greet Rick, but was shocked to see Nick standing there.

"Nick? Hi. What are you doing in here?"

He smiled. "I was looking for Mr. Martis actually."

I looked at the clock on the wall. "Aren't you a little early for your session with the group? He's not in yet, I was just waiting for him too actually."

He looked nervous. "Yeah, I'm a little early."

"Early is always good." You could almost cut the tension in the room with a knife. I took a seat again & watched as he slightly paced back & forth. "Are you okay?"

"Do you think we should talk about last night?" He asked.

I looked down at my hands that were in my lap. "I suppose we should."

"Do you want to go first?" He took a seat in the other chair.

I looked over at him. "I think that maybe we should talk about this later. Rick will be here at any moment." He nodded & stood back up.

"I'm going to go wait outside for the rest of the guys. I'll, uhm, call you when we're done here?" He asked me, as if I wouldn't be okay with him calling.

"Of course. I look forward to your call, Nick."

****

(Nick's Point Of View)

I hadn't really planned on seeing her at the studio today. I guess she had some kind of meeting set up with Mr. Martis. Don't get me wrong, I loved seeing her there, but I wasn't exactly prepared after the kiss we'd shared the night before. I honestly didn't know what had come over me. I suppose it could of been the spirit of the song, the fact that I was alone in a room with one of the most beautiful women I'd ever met, or the fact that I was going through a horrific break up that I just wanted to forget. Or maybe it was all of the above. I knew that she & I were going to have to have a talk about what was going on between us & soon. I was going to have to tell her the truth about my ex, not to mention the real reason I'd moved out of the city & into the 'burbs of Nashville. I just didn't want to mess this up. I also didn't want people to think I was pursuing this as rebound because I promise that isn't the case.

***

Our session at the studio went great that day, aside from the fact that my mind had been elsewhere. We'd managed to complete the last of the songs we'd planned to record there. I got into my car & pulled out my cell phone to call Sara as I left the studio. I heard her beautiful voice after only two rings. "Hello again."

"Hey Sara. I'm heading your way now, are you home?" I asked her. She seemed slightly distracted, but I didn't really think anything of it.

"Huh? Oh yeah, I'm home, just doing a little bit of work. Are you stopping by?"

"I was planning on it. I think we should probably talk about what happened."

"Sure. I think we should too. I'll see you when you get here. Bye!" She hung up. I just hoped that once I told her everything she'd still be interested. I just had a feeling that I couldn't let this go....whatever this was.

Chapter 7

(Told by Nick)

I pulled up to Sara's house at about 6:30 pm that evening. I took a deep breath as I got out of the car and walked up to her house to knock on the door. After a couple of minutes of standing there I finally heard her unlatching the door. "Hi you." Sara said to me as she opened the door. She was smiling ear to ear. She was dressed in a pair of baggy sweatpants & a tank top; she had little or no makeup on, yet she still looked stunning. She stepped out of the way to let me into her home, shutting the door once I was inside.

"Hey. Everything okay? You sounded distracted on the phone." I told her as I took a seat on the couch in her family room.

She shook her head. "Oh, no.. I'm sorry. Yeah, everything's fine, I just finally put the finishing touches on the song & it's amazing."

I smiled. "I'm sure it is going to sound great."

"There's no issues with you recording it, right? I mean because of the group?" She asked me as she took a seat next to me.

I shook my head. "No, not at all. In fact, they're encouraging it."

She smiled again. "Okay, great. I'm really excited about this."

"Me too." I really was excited about the song, but I was moreso excited about where things were going with Sara. "So...should we talk about what happened last night?"

She nodded. "I think so. I'm sorry about that."

I looked at her with a confused expression. "You're sorry? For what?"

"Kissing you like that. That is so not the person I am. I just.... It felt right."

"Sara, I kissed you first, it wasn't your fault," I told her. "And if I'm being honest, it did feel right."

"So what does this mean? Relationships are not something I'm good at. I may write songs about the perfect relationship, but really I'm an idiot when it comes to that sort of thing."

"It means that I want to take this to the next level and see where it leads us." She smiled at me, "But first I really feel like there's something you should know about me."

The smile faded and she looked a me; a serious expression on her face. "Ok. Tell me."

I took a deep breath, this was it. "I literally JUST got out of a horrible relationship before I moved here. It's actually part of the reason I'm here."

"Horrible how?"

"My ex-girlfriend, Anastasia... Well, she's actual an actress, so therefore she's in the news a lot. She & I had dated for 3 years...One of my longest relationships to date. Things were going great, that was until she was cast in a major feature film about a year into our relationship. She started to become a totally different person than the person I had originally fell for. After 3 years I had decided I'd had enough. She was controlling & demanding & I just couldn't take it anymore so I ended things. She retaliated by releasing statements to the press that I had been verbally & physically abusive towards her. It was a huge media frenzy & really still is. I just felt like I needed to tell you all of this before we could pursue anything because I don't want you to believe any of what you may hear." I realized I had been rambling. I finally stopped to take a breath & let her respond.

She looked at me with concern. "Nick, if you tell me you didn't do it, I'm going to believe you. I don't get that kind of vibe from you. You're a great guy as far as I can tell."

I shook my head. "I didn't do it. I promise you that."

"Nick, I believe you. I can see it in your eyes that you were wrongly accused. I don't think any less of you because of this. So relax..."

I smiled. This girl had to be some sort of figment of my imagination. No girl was this perfect. "Thank you, Sara. You are truly one of a kind."

"I've been told that a time or two. Now enough with this serious talk...do you want to hear the final project?"

I nodded. "Absolutely."

****

(Told by Sara)

Nick stayed at my house until probably midnight again that night. We just went over the song again & talked....mainly talked. We talked about any and everything we could possibly think of. Honestly, by the end of the night I felt like he knew me better than I knew myself. I'd told him all about my relationship with Billy & he'd gone into more detail about his time with this Anastasia girl. I can tell you one thing, if I EVER meet her, she'll wish she were never born. Turns out she had treated him very badly throughout most of the relationship. He was the one that took most of the abuse & that angered me. Nick was by far one of the sweetest guys I'd met in a long time & it hurt me to know that someone took advantage of that to better their own career.

The next few days flew by in a flash. I'd spent a little time with Nick, but not much. He was finishing up some things with the guys & I had been busy writing. Before I knew it the time had come to head into the studio to record my song with Nick. Rick had also told me to bring some other songs I'd like to record to possibly put on a record. Apparently, Rick had made some arrangements for some record executives to be there for the recording process & hopefully they'd want to sign me. It made me slightly nervous because for once I wasn't going to be judged simply on the song I'd written, but also on the sound of my voice. I was scared that they would turn me down & I'd be crushed. At least I'd have Nick by my side to console me afterwards. I just hoped that after today things would be different. I had never wanted to be the artist...only the songwriter, but now, I wanted the other part so badly.

***

Chapter 8

(Told by Sara)

"Nick, I'm not going to lie. I'm nervous as hell right now," I told Nick as we sat outside the recording studio waiting to go in and record. Rick hadn't arrived yet, so after checking in with Ellie we had walked back outside to sit & wait.

He put his arm around me & pulled me close to his side. "Sara, you're going to be amazing, okay? Trust me. I've heard A LOT of singers & you are by far the best."

I smiled at him. "You're too good to me, you know that?"

He nodded. "Yeah, I know." Then he chuckled. I playfully slapped his arm.

"You're not supposed to agree with me, Nick!" I pouted. He just smiled. Over the past couple of days we'd grown remarkably closer. I have to admit that I couldn't believe we'd only known each other a couple of weeks. It seemed like it had been years. We weren't official or anything, but I think we both knew it was only a matter of time.

"Hello Sara, Hello Nick. Nice to see you both of you again. Are we ready to do this?" Rick said as he approached us.

We both stood & nodded. "I think so." I told him. We followed him inside & began the recording session.

The first song Rick had me record was the one with Nick. I was so nervous I was shaking. Nick came up to me in the booth, put his arms around me & whispered in my ear. "You're going to be amazing." He pulled away & placed a gentle kiss on my cheek. He'd given me the inspiration I needed.

We ran through the song several times before Rick signaled that he felt we'd gotten it just right. "Sara, that may just be the best song I've heard you come up with yet."

I smiled. "Thank you, Rick. You really think so?"

"Yes, I do & I feel like the record execs will too. Now let's get a couple more cut today."

I nodded & headed back into the booth to cut two more songs I'd recently written. One I'd titled "American Honey". A semi - autobiographical song about myself. The second was a more uptempo song, "Stars Tonight". In total I think we ended up spending about 7 hours at the studio.

Needless to say I was exhausted when we were finally finished & ready to head home. Nick dropped me off at my house. I'd offered to let him come in and stay for a bit, but he'd insisted I needed my rest. I had to agree with him there, I'd gotten very little sleep since he'd come into my life. Not that I was complaining one bit. I loved every moment I got to spend with him.

***

(Told by Nick)

"So I feel like the album should be released in September, so we need to get to work on promotional dates & then setting up the tour," Howie said to us. He'd called a meeting with all of us before they were all flying back to their respective homes.

I sighed. "Guys, I just...I don't know that I'm going to be ready."

"Nick, just because you've found a new flavor doesn't mean you can put off the tour." AJ told me. I gave him a dirty look.

"Sara is more than just a new flavor, J. Plus, she & I just recorded that song together. I don't know what's going to happen with that.

"Look Nick, we think it's great that you're pursuing a career outside of the guys, but the new album is almost complete. It's going to be released & we're going to be expected to tour. That's just the way it is."

I rolled my eyes. "Maybe Sara can open for us. She is amazing after all. I'm sure you all would love her."

Brian shook his head. "I don't know if that's such a great idea."

"And why the hell not?" I asked. Sure, I was getting pissed off. Why wouldn't I?

"Now, just calm down, Nick," Brian said. "I just don't think that having your latest girlfriend as the opening act on the tour is a wise idea. You know how your fans can get, do you really want to put Sara through that?"

I thought about that a moment. It would be a nightmare for her. "What if our relationship isn't made public? We'll keep it hidden, at least until after the tour is over."

They all looked at each other. "Are you sure you can do that?"

"I'm sure we can."

"Then we'll give her music a listen, Nick. No promises yet though." Howie said.

I smiled. It was better than nothing & it meant spending more time with her. I could handle that. "Thank you guys. I really appreciate it."

"Alright, well, I don't know about you guys, but I have a plane to catch. I'll be in touch & let you all know when we'll be meeting up again," Howie explained.

We all said our goodbyes & parted ways. I couldn't wait to go over to Sara's to tell her the good news.

***

Chapter 9

(Told by Nick)

I knew that they hadn't said 'yes' persay, but I knew I could convince them to let Sara open up for us on the tour that summer. I knew that we still had months until the tour, but I was already dreading leaving Sara behind. This way, I could take her with her wherever I went. So I guess you could say I had fallen for this girl. I'd fallen harder for her than any other girl I'd ever dated. Something about her innocence intrigued me. I had always been into the 'bad girls' & media darlings...The fact that Sara really didn't want anything to do with that aspect of things made me want to be around her even more. I hadn't even flinched when the guys referred to her as my 'girlfriend' today. Maybe at age 30 I had finally decided it was time to settle down & maybe Sara was the one. I suppose it's a little too early to decide that, but until then we'll take it a day at a time.

***

I pulled up to Sara's house, noticing all of the lights in the house on. I knew she was home, even though it appeared she'd pulled her car into the garage. I put my car in park, got out & walked up to the door. I knocked anxiously. I couldn't wait to tell her the good news.

I heard her begin to unlatch the locks on the door. She looked stressed as she opened the door, talking hurriedly on the phone, while ushering me in & latching the door back. She took off back to the kitchen, still talking on the phone. I just took a seat on the sofa in her living room while I waited patiently for her to finish up her call.

I sat there for probably a good 15 minutes before she finally joined me. "I am so sorry about that, but I have amazing news!" She told me excitedly as she took a seat next to me. She had a huge smile on her face; she was no doubt happy.

I sat up & turned slightly to face her. "Oh yeah? Me too."

"Really?"

"Yep. So tell me your news..." I told her.

She was practically giddy. "That was Rick on the phone. The record execs loved the 3 songs I recorded today - well, with your help. They want me to do an entire album!"

I couldn't help, but smile. "Sara, that's great news."

"I know! I owe it all to you. I would have never even went for it, if it hadn't been for you wanting to record with me." She leaned in and gave me a quick kiss on the cheek.

"Honey, you would've been just as amazing without me, if not more."

She shook her head. "Now, tell me your news."

"How would you feel about being the opening act on our next tour?"

She sat back & looked perplexed. "Really? Me? I'm clearly not a pop act, Nick."

"So? That shouldn't really matter. I'm sure the fans would love you. We could perform our duet during your set, it'll be great." I took her hands in mine, "Come on, what do you say? You'd get to spend time with me..."

"Do you use that puppy dog face on all the ladies?" She said with a smirk.

"Only you, love. Only you." I told her. "So..."

"Nick, your fans would eat me alive & you know that. I don't think it's the best idea," she told me. It was like deja vu. "Who's to say we won't see each other all the time anyway? I could still come to some shows & visit you..."

I leaned back & took a deep breath. "Sara, come on. This would be amazing for your career..."

"Nick.....please. I'm going to be recording my album over the next month or so, then when it's released I'll probably be on my own promo tour. Don't be selfish, okay?"

"I'm not being selfish. There's no crime in me wanting to spend time with my amazing girlfriend."

Her eyes widened. "Girlfriend? We're official now? When did this happen?"

"I...I don't know. It just sounds right, doesn't it?"

She seemed to think about that for a minute. "I'm not so sure I'm ready for an official relationship with a Backstreet Boy. Do you think I can handle it?"

At first I was slightly worried, but then I saw the grin growing across her face. "I think you can handle it just fine." She then leaned in and gave me a kiss. "So will you at least think about tour?"

She nodded. "I'll think about it & discuss it with Rick. He is my manager afterall."

"Fair enough." We both leaned back & I put my arm around her. She leaned her head on my shoulder. It was at that moment that I realized that this was right where I needed to be. Fate had definitely dealt me a good hand this time.

***

(Told by Sara)

Last night had just been, well...weird. First I'd received the phone call from Rick telling me that my life was going to change dramatically because the record executives that he'd had listen to my first 3 tracks had decided they wanted to hear more of what I had to offer. I was going to be recording my very first record. I'd been in the business for years, but never had I had people that wanted to hear me. This was a totally new experience for me. Then on top of that I had Nick who wanted me to be the opening act for the Backstreet Boys next tour. I had told him I'd think about it & discuss it with Rick, which is why I'm at the studio right now actually. Then to top the entire night off, Nick & I became 'official'. I never in my life had imagined that one night would change my entire life so drastically, but that's what happened to me; and I honestly can't say that I'm upset about it. Life was amazing right now.

****

"So Sara, you wanted to see me?" Rick said to me as we sat in his office. He at his desk, me in the chair across from him.

I nodded. "Yes."

"Second thoughts on recording the album?"

I quickly shook my head. "Oh no, I'm very excited about that. I just had someone proposition me last night & I wanted to get your opinion."

He leaned forward against his desk. "You have my full attention, Miss Thomas."

"I was asked to be the opening act for the Backstreet Boys next tour in a few months."

"I see."

"I'm just really not so sure it's a great idea. I mean, I'm country....they're not."

"Is this really about genre? Or is it because of Nick?"

Rick really didn't know me pretty well. He had been like a father figure to me since my own father passed away a couple of years ago. "I think it has to do with Nick."

"Okay. Would you like to elaborate?"

I sighed. "Nick & I are...dating, I guess you could say. I just don't want to be expected to tour with him for 3 or 4 months & then something happen between us. We're still new."

"Then, my dear, that's what you need to tell him. I understand that you two have this great connection & it clearly makes an appearance in the song you two recorded. The chemistry between the both of you is undeniable."

"Thank you, Rick. You always know the right thing to say."

"That's what I'm here for." He said. "Now, let's talk about the album...."

"Okay."

"I would ideally like to get about 15 to 20 songs recorded in the next few weeks to pick from. Do you think you can do that? Would you like to shop through some demos, or are you wanting to write all the songs yourself?"

"I really would like to write the songs myself. I've got quite a collection already started, so i'll look back over some of those."

"Great. It's Friday, so I'll give ya the weekend to get some stuff together & we'll meet back here on Monday; say around 8 am?"

I nodded. "That sounds great." We both stood up & he came around the desk giving me a hug.

"I'm very proud of you, Sara."

"Thanks Rick. That means a lot coming from you."

"I see great things in your future, & I don't just mean with music."

I smiled. "Thank you." I gathered my purse to leave. "I'll see you Monday morning."

****

Chapter 10

(Sara)

For the next few months, Nick & I spent as much time with each other as we possibly could. It was difficult with him getting ready to head out on tour & me working on recording my first album. We were lucky if we saw each other one day a week. I'd been recording vigorously and had finally recorded several songs that I thought were great. Now came the hard part - narrowing it down to 10-12 songs for the actual record. I knew without a doubt that my duet with Nick would be on there. He'd also came in and collaborated with me on a couple of other songs, adding background vocals & such. I'd made an appointment with Rick that morning to go in & sit down with him to make the final decisions on which songs would make the cut. Today also happened to be Nick's last day in Nashville before leaving out on tour, so I had asked him if he'd come & help in the process. He was happy to oblige.

Nick & I had our first real argument a couple of months ago when I had told him that I wouldn't be joining him on tour. We had only been together for a few weeks & I really thought that we weren't going to make it past that day.

"Nick, I think I've made a decison." I told him as we sat at my table eating dinner that night.

END FLASHBACK

***

"So Sara, this is going to be a really tough decision here, you've written & recorded some amazing stuff." Rick told me as we all sat around a round table in his office; each of us with a list of the songs I'd recorded in front of us.

"Yes, I'm really proud of all of these songs." I told him.

"Well, let's get to work..." Nick said.

We spent the next couple of hours picking 12 songs that we felt would be best for the album & also decided on what we felt the first single should be. It would be sent to radio next week. I was ecstatic!

***

(Nick)

I was happy for Sara. I really & truly was, but to say that I wasn't going to miss her while I was away touring would be a complete & total lie. Over the past several months I'd really grown to care about her immensely. In fact, even though I swore I didn't believe in it, I think I'd fallen in love. I hadn't told her that part yet, I didn't want to scare the girl away. I just really felt like we needed to see if we could make it through our first few months apart to see if we were really meant to be together.

Today we decided on the songs for her album & picked her first single. I was really honored that she valued my opinion so much & asked me to be a part of that. I think we put together a really amazing album & I only hoped that it did as great as I felt it should.

Now here I was sitting next to her driving back to her house so that she could get ready for the dinner I'd planned for us that night. I had to catch a flight out to LA in the morning & I planned to make this evening a special one for both of us.

"Thank you so much for going with me today, Nick." She told me. I quickly glanced over at her & smiled.

"No problem, babe. Anytime."

"I'm really going to miss you while you're gone."

"Sara, you're going to be so busy you won't have time to miss me."

"I'm sure I'll find the time to miss you, Nick." She told me. I couldn't help but smile. How had I become so lucky to have bumped into this girl, especially after the way my life had been going? Yeah, there was no thinking involved anymore, I was in love with this girl. I just had to make sure I didn't screw this one up.

***

Later that night, I came back by Sara's house & picked her up for dinner. I'd picked up a bouquet of daisies,her favorite flower, from a local florist while she was getting ready. We made our way to downtown Nashville & enjoyed an amazing candlelit dinner & were now walking around the city, holding hands. "Nick, thank you for tonight. It was amazing. Honestly, probably the best date I've ever had." We stopped walking & I turned to face her, smiling at her.

"I'm glad I could make tonight special for you, Sara. I hate that I have to leave you tomorrow."

"Nick, it's your job. It's not like we didn't know this day was coming when we first started dating." She smiled.

I nodded. "True, but I can still miss you, right?"

She smiled & leaned against me. "You better." I leaned down & kissed her deeply. She wrapped her arms around my neck & deepened the kiss. I pulled back & looked into her eyes. "What is it?"

"Uhm..nothing...it's just that I... I love you, Sara...." I told her. She opened her mouth to respond, but quickly closed it again. She manuevered her way out of my embrace & made her way over to a nearby bench & took a seat. I followed her. "Sara, what's wrong? Talk to me." I took a seat next to her.

"Nick, I care about you, a lot. I just... I can't say that yet, especially with you leaving tomorrow." She told me. I swear I felt like my heart was breaking. I looked away from her. I heard her sigh. "Nick, please. I don't want this amazing night to end this way."

I shook my head. "I guess, I better get you back home." I stood up & started walking back the way we came. I heard her get up & soon felt her grab my arm turning me to face her.

"Nick, stop it. I'm not letting this mess things up. So I can't say the 'L' word yet... so what? It doesn't mean that I'm not going to be sad not seeing you for months. I've only ever been with one other man & it ended with my heart broken. I don't want that to happen again." She said. I could see a tear escape her eye. I reached up & brushed it away with my thumb. "I'm scared, Nick. I'm feeling all of these things & I just really don't know what it all means yet."

I leaned down & kissed her gently. "Sara, the last thing I want is to hurt you." My voice was barely louder than a whisper. She nodded & kissed me again. "I don't want to rush you into anything. Let me take you home. If you want you can take me to the airport in the morning, or if you think it'll be too hard, that's okay too." She nodded. I took her hand & we headed back to the restaurant, where the car still was. I only hoped that my confession tonight hadn't scared her off. I hadn't meant to say it, but the time felt right. It wasn't like it was a lie. I do love her.

***

Chapter 11

(Sara)

He'd given me somewhat of an ultimatum I suppose. I could whether or not to take him to the airport or not this morning. Things last night had been weird; so weird in fact that I felt inspired to write a song about it. He'd brought me home, dropped me off, giving me a goodnight kiss at the door, and I made my way inside & down to my home studio. I wrote the song in all of 15 minutes, & had a demo of it recorded within a couple of hours of being home.

Now here I was, holding a CD in my hand, & waiting outside his front door. I'd written this for him & I intended for him to hear it. I'd never been great with expressing how I felt in words, but in a song I could tell you everything. I'd written a letter & tucked it into the CD case. I knocked gently on his front door, waiting for him to answer. I thought for sure I'd missed him, but after a few minutes of standing there I heard him messing with the door locks. The door opened to reveal him in nothing but a towel. I found my voice caught in my throat & I guess I was staring because he started chuckling. "Like what you see, Ms. Thomas?" He asked me.

I shook the thoughts out of my head & tried my best to form words. "Uh....hi...I thought I missed you..." I told him. He ushered me inside, shutting the door once I was in.

"Oh no, I'm just getting dressed & leaving here in a minute. So you decided to go with me to the airport, I assume?" He asked me. I hadn't been in his house yet. It was extravagant to say the least, much moreso than mine.

I took a seat on one of the two plush couches that adorned his living area. I shook my head. "No, actually..."

He nodded. I could see the disappointment on his face. "Oh. Then why are you here?"

"I still wanted to see you before you left. I just... I couldn't bare to say goodbye to you at the airport like that. It's so ... I don't know..."

He nodded. "I understand. Let me go get dressed and then we'll talk for a minute." I nodded & watched as he headed upstairs. He was only up there about 15 minutes before he came back down carrying his suitcase. "So...."

I stood up. "I kinda sorta wrote you a song last night." I handed him the CD. "I wanted you to know exactly how I felt about this whole situation with us. It's just much easier to put it into song."

"Thanks. I'll, uh, listen to it on the plane." He put it in his carryon bag. "Look, Sara, I don't want things to be weird with us because of what I said last night & clearly they are."

I sighed & nodded. "Nick, I guess I'm just surprised is all... I never pictured you being the 'I love you' type - crazy as that may seem." I paused. "And I guess I've never had a guy tell me that and truly mean it before."

"Billy never said it?" He asked, speaking of my one & only former boyfriend.

"He never meant it. I was a relationship of convienience for him. With you, I feel it's so much more, but I don't want to rush things & mess it up. It's only been a few months, Nick, & here we are facing months apart already. I just want to make sure I can handle it before I get myself in too deep."

He walked up to me & put his arms around me, pulling me close to his body. I loved being in his embrace, it made me feel safe. "Sara, I have no doubt in my mind that you can handle it, but I respect your decision & I will be counting the days until I see you again." He leaned down & kissed me gently.

"Thank you, Nick. You really are the most amazing man I've ever met." He smiled.

"I hate this, but I really need to get to the airport & check in. I'll call you when I land in LA, okay?" He told me, as I followed behind him as we walked out his front door. He locked up & turned to me.

"You better." I told him.. He leaned down & kissed me again, deeper this time. "I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too, babe." He told me as he turned and headed towards his car. I watched as he got in & then watched as he drove off. This was going to be the longest 3 months of my life. I only hoped that after this he'd still be coming back to me.

****

(Nick)

I boarded the plane & made myself comfortable. Once we were in the air & able to use our electronic devices I booted up my laptop & put in the CD that Sara had recorded for me. I put in my headphones & pressed play. I then read the note she'd enclosed with it. Everything I wish I could've said last night but didn't. xo, Sara. The music began to play & soon her angelic voice filled my ears. I leaned back & closed my eyes, listening closely to the lyrics.

Lyin' here with you so close to me
It's hard to fight these feelings when it feels so hard to breathe
Caught up in this moment
Caught up in your smile

As soon as the song ended I pulled out my cell phone & sent her a text. Sara, just listened to the song, & it's amazing. I miss you so much already & I can't wait to kiss you goodnight again. Call you when I land. xx, Nick.

****

Chapter 12

(Sara)

The first month apart from Nick went quickly. We talked pretty much every day, even though he was busy with shows & I was busy promoting my debut album that was set to be released in just a few weeks. Today was no different than yesterday, I was sitting in a hotel room in NYC waiting for it to be time to head out for that day's list of promo stops. I was a country music artist in my heart, but my first single had become an overnight cross over hit. I have no doubt that my budding relationship with a certain Backstreet Boy had helped with that accomplishment. We'd chosen "American Honey" as my first single, we felt it told the story of who I was & where I came from; and with Nick's amazing background vocals it had turned out so great.

I had been assigned a publicist to accompany me on this promo tour. Her name was Maggie & honestly she was a godsend. I was sitting in my hotel room, messing around on my laptop when I heard her knock on my door. I got up & made my way to the door letting her in. "Hey Maggie. You're a little early, aren't ya?"

She smiled, it wasn't a sincere smile. I knew something was up. "Well, actually, I have something I need to go over with you. You're actually in the tabloids this morning."

I looked at her with a confused expression. She made her way over to the sitting area & sat her laptop up on the table next to mine. "Why? I've done nothing."

She shook her head. "It's not exactly you, It's Nick. Some pictures were released...."

I sat next to her. "What kind of pictures?" I could feel my heart racing.

She typed something on her computer & turned it to face me. I instantly felt sick the moment my eyes met the screen. In front of me were pictures of my boyfriend looking all comfy-cozy with some unknown blonde. The site had listed that the pictures were just taken a couple days before. The headline simply read: Nick Carter's new fling? We hadn't exactly made our relationship public, but it had been rumored. "People are talking, Sara. Are you okay?"

I nodded & wiped a few stray tears away. "I just...I can't believe he'd do this to me." I shut the lid of the laptop & pushed it towards her.

"I'm really here more as a friend, Sara. Is there anything I can do for you?" Maggie had become one of my closest friends over the past month, but that's to be expected when you spend so much time with someone.

I shook my head. "No. I just....I need to talk to Nick. I need to figure this out." I told her.

She nodded. "Well, let me know if you need anything. I'll see you in a little while for the show."

I nodded as she walked to the door & exited the room. I grabbed my cell phone & dialed Nick's number. I couldn't remember what city he was in tonight, or if he was already on stage. At this point I really didn't care, I needed to talk to him and I needed to talk to him now. I listened patiently as it continued to ring. Finally his voicemail picked up. I sighed. "You've reached Nick. Leave one & I'll think about calling ya back."

I heard the beep. "Nick...hey...It's Sara. Uhm, I guess you're busy or on stage or something, but I really need to talk to you. Can you call me back please? I'll be on stage in about an hour, but we need to talk tonight. Ok....Bye." I ended the call & sat my phone down on the nightstand next to my bed. That's when I lost all control of my emotions. I collapsed backward onto the bed and cried.

****

(Nick)

I looked at the called ID on my cell phone & sighed; sliding it back into my pocket. It was Sara. I knew why she was calling. I'd received a phone call from my PR this morning about some photos that had surfaced of me & an old friend of mine. We'd met up for lunch a couple of days ago before I had to head out to rehearsals. I'd first met Sunny back during our black & blue days. She'd been a dancer for us, & we'd become really good friends. We'd never hooked up, not even once. In fact, Sunny was happily married, but Sara wouldn't know that.

Long story short, the paparazzi had decided to try & stir up some shit, as they normally do. The pictures had been released & I knew without a doubt that's why Sara was calling me. I knew she'd probably thought the absolute worst when she saw them too. I could only imagine how angry she must be, but I didn't do anything. We went to lunch, that was it.

I knew I needed to prove myself to Sara after this whole ordeal. I had the next couple of days off so I decided at that moment I would fly out to her show & surprise her. Now I just needed some assistance to make this happen. I quickly pulled out my phone & dialed Rick's phone number. He'd surely be able to help.

***

"This is Rick Mastin, how may I help you?"

"Rick? It's Nick...Nick Carter."

"Oh Nick!" He exclaimed. "What can I do for you?"

"Well, actually, I want to surprise Sara at her next show. I've got a couple of days off & I thought about flying out. I just really don't want her to find out about it."

He chuckled. "I imagine she'd love that. Well, tell me what I can do to help." I went through the entire plan & found out that she'd still be in NYC that night. Everything was set. I got off the phone & booked my plane ticket. Then it was time for me to head down to the venue for the show. Sara would be so surprised. I just hoped that the pictures hadn't messed things up. I'd call her after my show & tell her I was too tired to talk. Then tomorrow night I'd surprise her & it would be a night she would never forget. Oh yes, this was going to be good.

***

"It's about time you called back." She said. I could tell she was pissed off. I wasn't surprised in the least.

"I had the show & VIP, Sara. Sorry."

"Well, you should be...."

"Sara...I..."

"You what? Let me guess, you're sorry about cheating on me?" She said. I sighed & closed my eyes.

"Cheating on you? I'm not cheating on you. I love you, why the fuck would I cheat on you?"

"I saw the pictures."

I took a deep breath. "Sara, honey, it's not at all what you think."

"Oh really? Then tell me, what is it?"

"Her name is Sunny. She & I used to work together. She was a dancer on a past tour. We just met up for lunch to catch up."

"Oh, so a date?"

I rolled my eyes, knowing she couldn't see me. "Sara, please."

"Sorry. Go on."

"She & I are just friends. We hadn't seen each other in ages. She happily married, Sara, and I told her all about you."

"You expect me to believe that?"

"Well, it's the truth. Look, I'm really tired, so I'm going to bed. I'll call you tomorrow, okay?"

She sighed loudly. "Yeah, whatever." With that I heard the dial tone. Yeah, she was pissed. I just hoped that what I had planned for tomorrow would fix this. I laid my phone down on the nightstand & collapsed on the bed. Sleep soon took over.

***

Chapter 13
-Sara's POV-

My conversation with Nick last night left a lot to be desired. I just prayed he was telling me the truth, but his reputation still plagued the back of my mind. I was still in New York tonight, getting ready for my second show there. I was sitting in my hotel room, checking in with my fans on Twitter & Facebook, when there was a knock on my door. I sighed & closed my laptop. I got up & went to answer it. I was shocked to see a delivery man standing there holding the most beautiful bouquet of red roses. "Ms. Thomas?"

"Yes, that's me." He held the bouquet out to me.

"These are for you." I took them from him & tipped him. He then turned & headed back down the hallway. I shut the door to my hotel room & walked over to the table & sat the bouquet down. I quickly pulled the card out to read it.

Sara, I know you're mad at me right now, but I promise you, you're the only one for me. I love you. -Nick

I sighed to myself. I grabbed my cell phone & dialed his number; sighing again when he didn't answer. "Nick...it's Sara...I just got the flowers. Thank you. Call me back soon. Okay? Bye."

****

"Hey Sara, you ready for the show tonight?" Maggie asked me, backstage about 30 minutes before I was set to go on. I still hadn't heard back from Nick & it honestly was beginning to worry me. I just had to try to put that in the back of my mind.

I smiled. "As always."

"I'm sure you'll be great!" Maggie said. "We've changed the set list slightly for tonight, if that's okay? People have been tweeting & emailing asking to hear your duet with Nick live, so we put it in there."

I looked at her. "But it's a duet - Nick's not here. It won't sound the same."

"We've got him on a recording, so it'll be like he's here. We're just giving the fans what they want, Sara. It'll pay off in the end, trust me."

I sighed. It just sounded so crazy to sing such a meaningful song with a recording of a person that I so badly wanted to see right now. "Ok. I better go get set to go on, I'll see you after the show."

"Knock 'em dead, girl."

****

-Nick's POV-

I stood backstage, hidden, listening to Sara's set. She still had no idea I was here, or that I was going to be joining her onstage during our duet. I could just picture the look on her face when she realized there was no track & it was actually me there, in the flesh. I just hoped that it earned me some serious points with her, because I'm sure after avoiding her calls all day that I had moved myself even further into the doghouse.

"Nick, your song is up next, you ready man?" Rick asked me, patting me on the shoulder.

"As I'll ever be. I just hope she doesn't kick my ass." I nervously laughed.

He chuckled. "I'm sure things will go just fine." I heard her begin to talk to the audience & I knew that was my cue. "You're up. Good luck."

I laughed, "Thanks, Rick. For setting all this up." He just nodded & I stood there waiting for the best moment to walk out on stage.

"Are you having a good time tonight, New York?" I heard Sara ask the crowd. They screamed in response. She giggled. "I'll take that as a yes. Now, I know you all have been wanting to hear this next song live for a while now & unfortunately, Nick couldn't be here with me to perform it tonight, so I hope this will do. This is 'When You Got A Good Thing'....Enjoy...." The music started up & I took a deep breath.

"Here goes nothing," I said to myself. We had decided that since my verse was first that I'd just sing from backstage, so she'd still think it was just a recording & once the chorus kicked in I'd join her onstage.

Everybody keeps telling me I'm such a lucky man
Lookin' at you standing there, I know I am.
Barefoot beauty with eyes that blue,
Sunshine sure looks good on you, I swear.

Oh, I can't believe I finally found ya baby.
Happy ever after, after all this time.
Oh, there's gonna be some up and downs,
but with you to wrap my arms around I'm fine

It worked out perfectly that her back was turned to me when she went to start the chorus, that she didn't see me when I started out onto the stage, but the fans quickly erupted when the saw me. Sara turned & stopped singing for the first couple lines of the chorus. I'm pretty sure she was in disbelief that I was actually there standing in front of her. I slowly crossed the stage to her, singing the chorus solo until she regained composure & joined me a couple lines in; tears threatening to pour out of her eyes.

So baby, Hold on tight.
And don't let go!
Hold on to the love we're makin',
'Cause baby when the ground starts shakin'
you gotta know, when you got a good thing.

I took her hand as I sang my next lines.

You know you keep bringin' out the best in me,
And I need you now, even more than the air I breathe.

I thought her face was going to crack from the huge smile she had plastered on her face.

You can make me laugh when I want to cry.
This will last forever, I just know.

I know...


So baby, Hold on tight.
And don't let go!
Hold on to the love we're makin',
'Cause baby when the ground starts shakin'
you gotta know, when you got a good thing.

We got a good thing, baby!
Whoa!

So Hold on tight.
Baby, don't let go!
Hold on to the love we're makin',
'Cause baby when the ground starts shakin'
you gotta know, When you got a good thing....

We finished the song & the crowd went crazy. Sara just looked at me & threw her arms around me, as she started to cry what were no doubt happy tears.

"Are you surprised to see me, Miss Sara Thomas?" I asked her, into the microphone.

"You sure got me good, Mr. Carter. I'm sure all of my friends here are glad you decided to show up!" The crowd cheered. "And now I have to figure out how to regain some composure to finish this show."

I just laughed. "I have no doubt you'll do just fine. Won't she, fans?" They cheered again. "I better get to steppin', but you all enjoy the rest of Sara's show!" I leaned down & quickly kissed her before running off the side of the stage to wait for her to finish. It was no doubt going to be an amazing night ahead. I was sure of it.

****