Chapter 1


(Last Day of School)

With the last final completed they would be graduating
tonight- Nicki, Nick, Min, A.j., Shawn, Kevin, Brian, and Howie they
had been best friends from the start of Nursery school when their
parents had
all put them in the same nursery school.
With each passing year they had grown closer and closer, Nicki and
Nick had started dating freshmen year of Highschool. Min & A.j. had
danced around the dating thing, but wound up going to school dances
together, going to football games together, you name it they did it
together. Min was the shy, quiet, plain one. A.j. was the wild bad
boy with a heart of gold, they were complete and total opposites and
everyone
had told them that if they ever got together they wouldn't make it.
Min was too pure for his bad boy tastes, but somehow she was just
the girl he wanted.
Shawn and Kevin were practically married since the first day of
Kindergarten and would probably end up getting married sometime
after graduation this summer.

" I can't believe its really over," Min said as she looked
around the empty hallway, they had all emptied their lockers out
yesterday so no one had to even stop by a locker.

A.j. slung an arm around Min's shoulders," Believe it Minnie
Mouse, it is so over! Tonight we graduate, I'm seriously stoked!" he
said as they headed out of the highscool building.

Nicki laughed as she walked with her arm around Nick as they
also exited the building," I'm shocked that you even managed to get
passing grades to graduate," Nicki joked.

"Hey!" A.j. said," I'm alright."

Everyone cracked up at that," I think if it wasn't for Min
making him actually study he might not even be graduating with us
tonight," Nick pointed out.

"Thanks Carter we already knew that," A.j. supplied as the
group ended up in the parking lot," Minnie, need a ride home?"

"Sure," she said with a smile, when A.j. unlocked his door
she climbed into the passenger seat.

" Tonight after the ceremony we
are all going to partay like rock stars!"

Nicki laughed," Alright Alex, we got the point," she said as
she climbed into Nick's car.

( Later That Night)

A.j. stood in front of the mirror in his room, he had just
finished getting dressed and then put on his cap and gown. " Its
finally the end of the beginning," he said. Glancing at the
digital clock on his nightstand he saw that if he wanted to stop to
get that surprise for Min, he had to leave like now," Shit!" he
said, he grabbed his cell and wallet and car keys as he
raced out the front door.

He jumped into his car and peeled out of his driveway while
dialing Nick's telephone number, he was driving while trying to make
the call at the same time.

"Hey J, 'sup?" Nick asked, he was waiting on Nicki to finish
getting ready so they could head back over to Highschool for the
ceremony.

"Hey Carter, listen I've got something that I need to do
before the ceremony I won't be late though, but would you do me a
favor and give Min a ride over to the highscool?"

"Sure no prob, see ya in a few."

"Cya," A.j. said as he continued to drive, while he was
closing his cell though his eyes were not on the road. He lifted his
head just as an eighteen wheeler came straight
at him," Oh shit!" he said trying swerve, but it had rained this
afternoon and the roads were still slick and his car hydroplaned and
then spun out careening off the edge of the highway's
shoulder.
The tiny sports car rolled down the hill hitting a tree.

Chapter 2

Nick hung up his cell and walked upstairs to Nicki’s room. He knocked and then opened the door a little.
“Come in.” She said standing in front of the mirror.
“Hey baby are you about ready. AJ called and asked if I could take Min to the highscool with us.” He said as he walked over to sit on her bed. She looked amazing in her baby blue dress.
“Ok.” She said looking at the mirror still.
“Baby is something wrong.” He said as he got up and put his arms around her waist.
“I look fat Nick. Everyone will know. Look at me.” She said turning around so he could see her.
“Sweetie really you look fine. You can’t tell I promise. Only you and I know baby.” He said pulling her to him and kissing her forehead.
“Are we still going tonight?”
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” He said kissing her again. “We really need to go though.”
“Ok.” She said as she smiled up at him and he kissed her lips.

He always knew just the right things to say to make her smile. As they headed down the stairs Nicki’s parents stopped them for pictures.

“You two look so great.” Her mom said as she started to cry. “My baby is graduating.” She hugged her daughter then Nick. Nick was pretty much part of their family. “We’ll see you guys at the school shortly.”
“Thanks mom.”

Nicki and Nick walked out to Nick’s car and drove over to Min’s house. Nick got out and walked up to the door. Knowing AJ he probably forgot to call Min and tell her the plans.
Min answered the door expecting to see AJ.

“Nick?”
“Hey J asked me to stop by and take you to the school. He is going to meet us there. He had to run somewhere real fast.”
”Oh ok.” She said as she closed the door behind her. “Hey Nicki.”
“Hey Min. Are you ready to finally be over with highscool?” She laughed.
“I was ready the day it began.”


(At the High School)

Kevin, Shawn, Howie, and Brian were already there waiting at the door for the rest of the gang to take pictures.

“Where’s AJ?” Kevin asked when the three of them walked up to the building.
“He had to run somewhere real fast. Said he would meet us here.”
“He isn’t going to be late is he?” Kevin asked again being the big brother of the group.
“He said he wouldn’t.”

“You guys ready for the party tonight?” Brian asked as someone took a picture of everyone.
“Nicki and I can’t make it.” Nick said smiling.
“And why the hell not.” Min said a little confused that her two friends had something else planned that she knew nothing about.
“We’ve got something to do with our family.” Nick lied.
“Right you do.” Brian said shoving Nick a little.

They rounded up everyone to get in line to start the Graduation. Everyone was getting a little worried that AJ hadn’t shown up yet.
“Min I’m sure he is just running late.” Brian said as he squeezed her hand. “You know AJ. This isn’t his kind of thing anyway. He probably has some prank he is going to pull.”
“You are probably right.” Min said trying to relax.

After the Graduation Min found Nick and Nicki headed to Nick’s car.
“He never showed up.”
“Min he is probably at your house waiting for you. He said he had to run and go get a surprise for you.” Nick said hugging his friend. “I’m sure he is ok.”
“He went to get a surprise for me?”
“Don’t tell him I told you.” Nick said as he smiled. “It’s a secret. Listen I can drop you off but Nicki and I really need to get going.”
“It’s ok I’ll get a ride with Brian.”

Nicki hugged her friend and they said their goodbyes.

“You ready baby?” Nick asked before they got in the car. “If you don’t want to do this we don’t have to.”
“Why wouldn’t I want to Nick. I love you.”
“Just making sure.” He said as he kissed her and opened the door for her.


The two drove to the court house and walked in.
“Can I help you?” The lady behind the desk asked.
“We are here to get married.” Nick said excited. “We called about a week ago and set up the time.”
“Carter?”
“Yeah that’s us I mean me.”
The lady laughed a little. She could tell they were both nervous yet excited.
“I just need you to sign these papers. And I need Ids from both of you.”

They both signed the papers and showed their IDS.
“Follow me this way.”
They followed her into a room and sat down.

A half hour later they walked out of the room both wearing wedding bands and holding hands. Nick brought her hand to his and kissed it. “Well Mrs. Nick Carter are you ready to go party now?”
“Yes Mr. Carter.”
He stopped her as they walked outside into the clear night.
“I’m going to take care of you Nicki. Everything will be ok.” He said as he rubbed her belly. “I promise.”
“I know Nick.” She said as she smiled.
“I love you.” He said as he leaned down to kiss her.
“I love you too.”

They got in their car and started to head to the party where everyone was at.

Chapter 3


( Grad Night Parties)

Min was miserable, there had been no Aj at her house, and
Brian had dragged her to the party assuring her that Aj would never
miss a party. But as the night wore on there was no sign
of him there.
She sat in the corner with her head in her hands, she felt like
something was really wrong and she wasn't feeling well herself. She
knew Aj's mom wasn't in town she was away visiting an old
friend.
"God Alex, where are you?'" she asked out loud.

Brian's mom-Jackie- was listed as an emergency contact on
Aj's hospital papers and any other contact info cause Denise and
Jackie were friends and trusted the other with their kids.
When A.j was pulled from the wreck, the hospital had called Jackie,
who was calling Brian now.

Brian was looking for Min in this mess to make sure she was
having fun when his cell phone rang, he stopped and pulled it out of
his pocket he saw his mom's number flash across the
screen and groaned. He had the urge to hit the ignore call button
but decided that he probably shouldn't so he answered it," Hey mom,"
he said.

"Brian, I know you are with your friends, but is Min with
you?" Jackie asked.

"Somewhere here, why?"

"Aj was in a horrible car accident this evening I guess it
was on his way to graduation."

Brian felt the breath almost being sucked out of him, that
explained why his friend had never made to the school tonight," Mom,
he's okay right? Just hurt?"

" He's at County General Hospital, he's in a coma Bri. I
think you should take Min over there, but please please drive
safely," she begged her son.

"Of course, I'll call from the hospital."

"Alright."

Hanging up the phone he had finally found Min sitting like a
rag doll in a chair," Min!" he said.

"Brian im not in the mood, I want to go home."

"My mom just called me, Aj's at County General."

"What!" Min said going to stand and nearly tripping.

Brain caught her arm," Let's go," he said not bothering to
tell their friends as he took her out to his car and they got in to
drive to the hospital.

( County General Hospital)
Brian had lied to the nurses at County telling them that he
was Ajs brother and that Min was his fiancee so that they would be
allowed to see their friend.

They were led to the ICU where Aj's body lay hooked up to
machines, comotose.

Min's face went," Oh god Alex," she said, as tears started
to fall, she fell to the floor sobbing.

Brian realized he hadn't prepared to Min by letting her know
Aj's condition before bringing her into the room," Min," Brian said
softly," He'll wake up."

"How do you know?" she sobbed," He must scared, he's all
alone."

Brian had sent his friends a hasty text message just saying
County Gen, on his way out the door from the party tonight.

"We're right here with him, he's not alone," Brian said
softly.

The tears continued to fall regardless down cheeks.

Chapter 4


(Nick and Nicki)

As Nick drove to the party he held Nicki’s hand and every now and then looking at the rings on both of their fingers. He couldn’t believe they actually did it. They actually were husband and wife. He knew their friends would freak when they found out. Nick and Nicki were planning on having a small wedding next fall.

“Baby can you grab my cell phone. I think I just heard it go off.”
“Sure.” Nicki let go of his hand and reached down in her purse(she carried everything for him). She pulled it out and flipped it open. “Looks like you have a text from Brian. He’s probably wondering where you are.”
“Go ahead and find out what he wants. I mean we haven’t been gone that long.”
Nicki pressed the button to read the message Brian had sent Nick. She was kind of puzzled by what it said.
“What’s it say baby?”
“County Gen.”
“That’s it.”
“That’s it. Do you think he is at County Gen?”
“I don’t know but I guess we could drive over and found out.”
“OMG What if something happened to Min or someone.” Nicki started to worry.
“Calm down baby. You have to stay calm.” He said putting his hand on her belly.


(Brian and Min)

Brian walked over to Min and held her while she cried.
“This can’t be happening.” She said as Brian rocked her back and forth. “Nick said he was going to get me a surprise. It’s all my fault.”
“Min it’s not your fault.”

An hour had passed and she finally managed to pick herself up and pull a chair next to him. She sat down and took his hand in hers. She kissed the back of his hand.
“AJ I’m here sweetie.”

Brian stepped out of the room to let Min have a couple of minutes alone with AJ. He needed some fresh air anyway.

Just as Brian walked outside and to a bench he saw Nicki and Nick walking towards the hospital. ‘Shit’ he thought to himself. He has to tell Nick and Nicki now what’s going on.

“Hey Bri. I got your message. What’s going on?”
He got straight to the point. “AJ was in a car accident earlier. That’s why he never made it to graduation.” Brian said as he put his head down. “He’s in a coma.”
Nicki instantly started to cry and fell to her knees. She couldn’t understand how something like this could happen to one of her friends.

Nick couldn’t believe what he had just heard. He suddenly realized Nicki wasn’t standing by him anymore. He looked down and saw her on her knees. “Baby please calm down.” He said as he picked her up and sat her down on the bench next to Brian.

“Where is Min?” Nick managed to get out. He had to worry about Nicki and now AJ.
“She’s in there with him now. I thought I would give her a few minutes alone with him.”
Brian turned to Nicki and put his arm around her. “It will be ok.” With his free hand he took her hand in his and squeezed it. When he squeezed he noticed she had a ring on her finger. He figured it was just a gift from Nick for graduation.

More of their friends and family had started to show up. Brian greeted each one. The word had spread fast through town what had happened.

“Nick I’m gonna go inside. It’s too cold out here.” She said wrapping her arms around herself as she walked inside with another friend.
“I’ll be in a few baby.” He said as he kissed her hand before letting her go. And mouthed ‘I love you’ to her.

Nick and Brian sat down on the bench outside, both needing to be alone and the cool air seem to help keep them calm.
“I can’t believe this man.” Nick managed to say as he put his head in his hands.
Brian looked over at his friend and also noticed a ring on his finger. Something weird was going on tonight.
“I can’t believe it either. But not to get off the subject of AJ. What’s this on your hand?” Brian said hitting Nick’s left hand where the ring is.

Nick sat up and looked at Brian. “Nicki and I went to the court house and got married.”
“That’s what your plans were” Brian said as he smiled. “Congrats little man.”
“Yeah some wedding night for Nicki and I.” Nick said.
“I didn’t even know you two were engaged. I thought I was your friend.” Brian said giving him a little shove.
Nick let out a little laugh thinking back to the day it all happened.

(2 months Earlier)

“What’s wrong baby?” Nick asked sitting on the edge of Nicki’s bed.
“I’m pregnant Nick.” She said turning to face him with tears rolling down her face.

He looked at her for a moment trying to gather what she had just said. “Are you sure?”
“I went to the doctor today and I’m 2 months along.”
“Your mom hates me doesn’t she.” Nick said as he put his head in his hands. He couldn’t believe he had gotten Nicki pregnant with just 3 more months to go til they graduated.
“She doesn’t know. No one does. I went by myself.”
“Baby I’m sorry.” He said now holding her in his arms. “You know I love you right.”
“Yes.” She said as she laid across the bed. Nick moved next to her leaning on one side. He put his hand on her belly and looked at her in the eyes.
“I’ll be there for you always Nicki. I’m not going anywhere.” He leaned over and kissed her. “I was going to wait till after we graduated to ask you to marry me. I don’t have a ring yet. Baby or no baby Nicki I love you and I do want you as my wife and to have kids with.”
Nicki laughed. “Is this your way of asking me to marry you?”
Nick blushed a little as he rubbed her belly. “Will you?”
“I’d love to marry you carter.” She said as she smiled.
“Would it be too soon if we got married graduation night?”
“Nick what are you talking about.”
“Us going to the court house and making it official.” He said sitting up now. “I don’t want our baby coming into this world with us not married Nicki.”
“You really wanna do it Graduation night.”
“It would be the perfect beginning to our lives. We end one chapter and start a new.”


(Back to Present Time)

“So you guys just decided to get married for no reason. She didn’t want a wedding with family or friends.”
“We are going to do that next fall.”
“So you did it tonight why?”
“It just felt right.” Nick said trying not to mention that Nicki was pregnant. This was not the time or place for that.

The two walked back inside into the waiting room. Brian walked over to Nicki and leaned down and hugged her.
“Congrats.” He whispered in her ear.
She looked at him like she was lost. She wasn’t sure what he knew.
“I saw the rings. Nick told me.” He said as he let a smile appear.
“Thanks Bri.”
“Take care of him for us ok.”
“I will.”
Brian kissed her forehead and headed back to the room with Min.
Nick sat down beside Nicki and she leaned her head on his shoulder.

Chapter 5


Min had managed to pick herself up from the chair and come
back outside to allow others to visit A.j. even though she didn't
even want to leave his side.

"Hey," Nick said seeing her exit the room.

"Hey guys," she said softly as she went to sit down.

"Are you okay?" Nicki asked softly.

"No," Min said before the tears started to fall again. She
didn't know if she could take much more of this, she just wanted
A.j. to open his eyes
and come back.
She dropped her head into her hands.

Brian sat down next to her wrapping is arm around," Hey," he
said softly," He will be just fine."

"How do you know?" came a muffled response.

"Because Aj is never down for long," Brian said," besides
its not his style," he said hoping to cheer up his friend a little
bit.

" I don't know."

"Do you want me to take you home?" Brian asked gently.

"No I'm staying right here."

"Min, tht's not practical," Brian said gently," you need to
get some rest."

Min lifted her head," I'm not going, I don't care. He needs
me right now," she said.

Brian sighed, what was he going to do with her?

( Three Months Later)

Summer had come and gone, and A.j. was still in a coma. Min
had been at the hospital all summer long, only going home briefly to
change and shower, she said she ate, but
sometimes she wouldn't.
Most often if she did eat it was a bite of something nothing stable
really.
All of her friends had gotten acceptance letters to colleges, Min
had left hers unopened. While everyone was shopping for college
stuff and all excited about it, she was not. She had
differed her first semester of college for the moment, even though
it had pissed off her parents mostly her dad. It felt wrong to her
to be going off to college when A.j. had lain in a coma
for the past three months.

She was sitting next to his bed today holding his hand,"
You're the reason.Why I found a way,.And you're the reason.Why I
feel this way
And you're the reason.Why I have to say,I had to let you know.You're
my everything," she sang.

Nick and Nicki held hands as they walked into the hospital
they were coming to check on Min and try and talk her into going
ahead with her college plans,
Min's dad had asked Nicki to try and talk to her.
As they neared Aj's room they heard singing.

"So many times I've been alone,.I didn't know what to do.I
don't know where I'd be.If I didn't have, didn't have you
You comfort me.Made me believe.Give me the strength I need.Since you
came into my life.It's been so heavenly, heavenly."

Nick and Nicki stopped in front of Aj's door sticking their
heads in," When did she learn how to sing?" Nick asked quietly so
only Nicki could hear him.

"Beats me," Nicki said surprised.

"You're the reason.Why I found a way,.And you're the
reason.Why I feel this way.And you're the reason
Why I have to say,.I had to let you know.You're my everything
So many things I wanna say to you.I'd give my heart to you.Just
because you came around.And gave me all your.All your love.
I would sacrifice my very life,.All you have to do is.Say the word
(say the word).And there would be no other,
No other, no other, no other."

AN: Contains Lyrics from
Your The Reason
by Krystal Harris & Aj Mclean

Chapter 6


Nicki and Nick had waited a little bit longer before walking into the room. As they waited Nicki had adjusted her baggy shirt for the millionth time. Nick just laughed at her.
“What?” She whispered.
“You can barely tell but I have to say I think its cute.” He said rubbing her belly that had, now at 6 months, started to pouch out a little bit. Nick loved the way Nicki looked pregnant, she was beautiful. “She’s going to find out in about 3 more months you do know that right.”
“I know but I just can’t bear to tell her Nick.”
“I know baby. I haven’t really told anyone.”
“Me either.”

Nicki and Nick’s parents were thrilled when they found out the two of them ran off and got married. Not so thrilled when they found out they were going to be grandparents. It took them about a month to get used to the idea. Now all parents were excited to welcome their grandchild into this world.


A few moments later they had decided to walk in and see how Min was doing.
“Hey.” Nicki said as she leaned over to hug her friend.
“Hey guys.” Min said softly still holding AJ’s hand.
“How are you doing?” Nick asked.
“I’d be better if he’d open his eyes.”

Nicki realized this was not the time to bring up college to her. She started thinking that what if it had been Nick. She would do the same thing Min had been doing.. putting her life on hold.

“Min do you need….” Nicki had started to say when she felt the baby kick for the first time.
“What?” Nick and Min asked at the same time.
“Um… do you need anything.” She said adjusting herself in the chair. She was getting better at hiding the pregnancy. She was thankful she hadn’t gained that much weight her doctor on the other hand was not.
“No I’m good.” Min said looking at AJ.

Brian soon appeared in the room with all of them. He walked over and hugged Min and knelt down by her.
“I’ll leave you guys alone. I’m going to go take a walk.” Nicki said as she stood up and walked out of the room. She couldn’t take seeing AJ like that or Min. She wanted everything to go back to that night before the accident. She wanted AJ alive and well. She wanted Min back.

She walked through a door and headed to the nursery. She needed to get away for a just a minute.

“What’s with Nicki? She’s been acting funny lately.” Brian asked as he sat in the chair.
”Not sure what you are talking about.” Nick said fulling knowing what he was talking about. Nicki was getting more emotional by the day. And she could never get comfortable. He hadn’t told Brian the news about the baby yet. And so far he was the only one besides family that knew about them being married.

Kevin and Shawn were headed towards AJ’s room when they saw Nicki leaning up against the wall not looking for good.
“Nicki is everything ok.” Kevin said looking at her as he put his arm behind he back to take her over to the bench.
“I’m fine.” She managed to get out. She was trying to fight the pain in her stomach. But it kept getting worse.
“Nicki you don’t look fine.” Shawn said sitting by her friend. Kevin had knelt down in front of her.
“Really guys I’m…” Another pain had hit. She knew this wasn’t good. “Can one of you get Nick for me please.” She said trying to sound calm. “He’s in AJ’s room.”

“I’ll go Kev you stay with her.” Shawn said as she headed towards AJ’s room.
A nurse happened to walk by and saw Nicki sitting on the bench with Kevin in front of her.
“Are you ok sweetie?” she asked as she took Nicki’s wrist and started taking her pulse.
“No.” She said as she started crying. “I’m getting sharp pains and I’m 6 months pregnant.”
The nurse ran over to the phone and paged something over the intercom but Kevin was to in shock to even hear what the nurse had said.
“Nicki why didn’t you tell….”
”We didn’t want to after what happened to AJ.” She said crying now. “I’m going to lose my baby aren’t I.”
“Calm down Nicki. Everything will be ok.” Another man had came over in a doctors lab coat along with the another nurse who brought a wheel chair.
“Are you the father?”
“No.”
“Ok I’ll need you to stay here than sir.”

Before he could say another word they had taken Nicki back into the Women’s Wing of the hospital.

Chapter 7


Min was still holding Aj's hand in hers, Please come back to
me. I need you so much. She felt so lost without him, soon she
drifted off with Aj's hand in hers.


*************************************************************
****************


" Baby, wake up," Aj whispered.

" Huh?" Min said sleepily as she woke up." Alex?"

He grinned," hey beautiful you fell asleep again."

" You're alive!"

"Of course I am," he said with a chuckle," why wouldn't I
be?"

"But the car accident on graduation night?"

"Babe, what are you talking about? I'm right here see," he
said putting a her hand on his chest over his heart.

"B-but you were going somewhere....you had a surprise for
me....you never showed up at graduation."

"I think you need more rest," he said with a chuckle," I do
have a surprise for you though."

"What is it?"

"Love's."
*************************************************************
****************

" Alex!" Min said waking up with a start, she was alone in
the room now Shawn had come to get Nick and Brian, but had left Min
since she was sleeping.
When Min looked at the bed Aj was still in a deep sleep," Love's,"
she mumbled. Love's was a small store in town that everyone shopped
at it, it had jewlery, gifts,
cards, clothes, all the little things, it carried the best stuff
around christmas, valentines and halloween too. " Love's," she said
again confused.

( Brian, Kevin, Shawn)

They had allowed Nick to be with Nicki, so the rest of them
were just waiting to find out what was going on. They could barely
sit still in the hospital waiting room,they hated this
whole waiting thing.

" I need to check on Min," Brian said," I'll be back," he
said getting up and going back to Aj's room to check on her.

( Aj's Room)

"Min? " he said seeing that she was awake.

She turned to him," What could Love's mean?"

Brian frowned," Its the store on Mainstreet, ya know with
all the holiday stuff, and jewlry and gifts, my mom shops there all
the time." He wondered what on earth had made her think of
that store.

Chapter 8


“Min are you ok?”
“Brian I had this dream, which I thought was real. AJ talked to me. He told me he did have a surprise for me and then mentioned Love’s.” She explained to Brian. “What does this mean?”

Brian sat there for a moment trying to think about what it could mean.
“I have no idea Min, sorry.”

“Oh my god.” Min said looking at AJ’s hand.
“Min what’s wrong.” Brian said standing up now.
“AJ’s hand just squeezed mine. I swear to God Brian.”

Brian was looking at her like she had gone crazy when there right in front of his eyes he saw his fingers move.

“Min I saw it.” Brian said getting excited. He looked at Min and saw a smile on her face for the first time since the accident. Brian walked out of the room and grabbed a nurse.


(Nicki’s room)

“Baby what happened?” Nick asked sitting by her side holding her hand.
“I don’t know. I was just walking towards the nursery and I started getting a pain. And that’s when Kev and Shawn showed up. Then it got worse.”
“I’m sorry baby.” He said kissing her hand and then leaned over to kiss her belly.

Nicki was hooked up to a baby monitor machine as well as a blood pressure machine for her. He was praying that everything would be ok that it was just a false alarm or something.

“Hey kids how are we doing today.” Dr. Walsh said as he walked in.
“You tell me.” Nicki said.
“That I will do.” He smiled at both of them. “I’m sure there is nothing to worry about. The baby’s heart rate looks good. Doesn’t seem to be any pressure on the baby. I’m gonna do an ultra sound to make sure the little one is ok though.”

Dr. Walsh pulled up her shirt to reveal her belly. He put the jelly on and then started the ultra sound. Nick and Nicki’s eyes were glued to the screen, there was their baby.

“Baby looks fine Nicki.” He said as he turned off the machine. “But I am worried about you not gaining weight. I want you on bed rest for at least a month till I see you again. And eat for god’s sake. Most women love to be pregnant just so they can eat whatever they want.” He said laughing. He then turned to Nick. “Keep an eye on her. I believe it was probably just stress and it was stressing the baby a little. Nothing to alarming. Keep her calm and in bed Nick. And make sure she eats. I want to see some more weight on her the next visit.”
“Thanks Dr. Walsh and I’ll make sure to do that.”
“For now just to be on the safe side I wanna keep you over night. In case it might have been contractions that we aren’t picking up now.”

“You better call my mom and your mom and let them know.”
“You do realize if I do that they will be here in record time.”
“That is true.” Nicki said putting her head back. “I just can’t keep this in any longer Nick. Us hiding this from everyone.”
“I know baby. Maybe its time we just tell everyone. For you and the baby’s sake.”
“I’m going to go let everyone in the waiting room you are ok.”


(Waiting room)

“Don’t you think it’s a little odd they took her to the maternity ward?” Shawn asked a little puzzled.

Kevin wasn’t sure if he should tell her what Nicki had said before they took her away. He decided he would wait to hear from Nick first.

“I hate waiting rooms.” Kevin finally said.



(Aj’s room)

“Brian we have to tell everyone. Maybe you were right. Maybe there is hope after all.” She said with a smile on her face. “I’ll go tell everyone who is waiting their turn to come in.”

Brian then realized that no one was out there. He had completely forgotten about Nicki.
He grabbed Min’s arm before she left the room.
“Min.”
”What?”
“Everyone is kind of waiting to hear how Nicki is doing?”
“What do you mean?”
“Well when you fell asleep Shawn came here telling us that something was wrong with Nicki. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Nick run so fast in my life.”
”What happened?”
“I don’t know. I was in the waiting room waiting for Nick to come out and I thought I would come check on you.”

Min and Brian went back to where Brian had left the others,"
Is she okay?" Min asked.

Nick stepped out of Nicki's room," She's fine. The doctor
just wants to keep her to run some tests," he said.

"Oh thank god," Shawn said.

"That's good," Kevin said, glad he had been scared when he
saw Nicki doubled over in pain.

"Are you okay?" Nick asked Min.

"Yeah," she said," A.j. moved his hand."

'What!"

"When?" Shawn asked surprised.

"Just a little while ago, I was actually going to get the
doctor and tell you all, but Brian told me about Nicki so I had to
check on that first."

"Well what are you waiting for go find that doctor!" Kevin
said.

"Going" Min said laughing for the first time all summer
since Aj's accident, she went to tell A.j's doctor. Now she only had
to figure out what Love's meant, maybe he was
talking about the store somehow.

( Aj's Room)

A.j's doctor was in the room now checking his vitals to see
if there was any reaction, or if Aj was still in a deep coma. Min
was waiting nervously, she hoped the doctor
would good news to give them.
She didn't think she could take anymore bad news at this rate, she
just wanted Alex back she missed him so much. She didn't know what
she would do without him, she couldn't
loose him.
"Please god, I need him," she said softly," Please don't take him
from me."

The doctor had finished his examination and stepped outside
to tell them what he knew.

Chapter 10


Nick had managed to get to where the others were just as the doctor had stepped out of the room. Nicki had told him to that she would be fine, but she wanted to know how AJ was doing as well. The only one who knew about the baby was Kevin, she was sure that he wouldn’t tell any of the others. And Brian was the only one who knew about Nick and her getting married.

So far none of their friends knew anything about Nick and Nicki.



“Nick?” Min said a little surprised to see him walking over to them.
“Nicki told me to come and see how he was doing.” He said as he found seat next to Brian.

The doctor finally walked over to the group holding a clip board in his hand. They were all nervous but excited.

“Good news guys. We think AJ will come out of this in a few days most likely.” He said looking at their faces all smile and a few tears of joy. “He can sense you guys when you are near him. He can probably most likely hear you as well. Just hang in there a couple of more days and he should be a wake. But we will still have to keep him once that happens to make sure nothing was seriously damaged. He may have to learn to walk again. Not sure about talking yet.”

The doctor went on and on about what to expect once he did wake up.

Brian looked over at Min who had the biggest smile on her face of them all. He reached his arm over hers and took her hand in his and squeezed.

“I told you he would be fine.” Brian said with a smile.
“I know you did.” Min said smiling back at him.

After the doctor left and went back into AJ’s room, they all stood outside talking for a few more minutes. Nick was happy he wanted to just bust out and tell everyone what had been going on since graduation but figured he would wait. This was good news for everyone, Aj would be awake and with them again.

“I’m gonna go let Nicki know the news.” Nick said smiling and hugging Min.
“Tell her I’ll be by in a few to check on her.” Min said hugging him back.
“Will do.” He said walking away from the group.

“Nick wait.” Brian said catching up with him.
Nick stopped and turned to see Brian heading his way. “Yeah.”
“What’s wrong with Nicki anyway?”
“Nothing I think she’s had a lot of stress lately and it caught up with her.” He said trying to keep his mouth shut.
“I don’t believe you Nick. Something more is going on that you and Nicki aren’t telling us.”
“Really Brian it’s nothing. You worry to much. She’ll be fine.” He said as he patted his friend on the back. “Would you tell everyone that probably next mouth Nicki and I will be moving into our apartment and would love everyone to come over. Maybe J will even be able to come.”
“Sure I will. I’m sure we will all be over to see Nicki in a few.”

Brian still wasn’t believing Nick with his story about Nicki. He could tell something more was going on. He watched Nick walk around the corner and to Nicki’s room before he headed back to the others.


When Brian returned to the others they were all in Ajs room surrounding his bed. Brian walked in and was standing at the foot of his bed.
“Nick wanted me to let you all know that Nick and Nicki will be moving into their apartment next month sometime and want us all to come over for a little party.”
“What is going on with those two?” Min said looking over at Brian as she took Ajs hand. “I feel like I’ve been out of the loop with them. And Nick’s supposed to be my bestfriend.”
“Don’t know.” Brian said deciding to let Nick and Nicki tell everyone about them being married.

A few moments later Shawn and Kevin let the hospital to give everyone a chance to see AJ and let everyone know that Nicki was alright but weren’t sure when she would be out of the hospital. They would return later to check on both of their friends.


Brian and Min were soon the only ones left in Ajs room. Silence filled the air as the two sat quietly hoping any minute AJ would say something.



(Nicki’s room)

Nick opened the door slowly as he peaked his head around the door.
“Hey.” Nicki said smiling as she took her eyes off the tv in her room.
“Hey beautiful.” He said walking over to the side of her bed and sat down in the chair taking her hand.
“How’s J?”
“The doctor said he maybe a wake and ready to go in a few days.”
“Really?”
“Yeah. Min was actually smiling. I never thought I would see her smile ever again.”
“I know. This is so exciting Nick.” Nicki said holding her husband’s hand and the other hand on her belly.
“I think Brian is slowly catching on to something about the baby.”
“Really? I let it slip around Kevin that I was pregnant.”
“I don’t know how much longer we can keep this from everyone.” Nick said as the door opened.

“Hey mom.” Nicki said as she saw her mom and then Nick’s mom right behind her.
“How are you sweetie?” Nicki’s mom asked leaning over to kiss her daughters forehead.
“I’m fine. I thought I told the two of you not to worry.” She said shaking her head at them.
“We figured we would come give Nick a break.” Nick’s mom said setting some flowers on the windowsill.
“Mom I’m not going anywhere. If something happens I want to be here.”
“Nick you need some sleep and to eat.” Nicki’s mom added.
“I’ve been sleeping right here and I’ve been eating.” Nick sighed. “I’m fine.”

Min still spent everyday at the hospital much to her parents
disliking, but she didn't care. A.j. had been there for her since
forever so now she would continue to be there for him til
he woke up.
She talked to him, read to him, sang to him, anything just so that
he could continue to hear her voice and the others came and went too
talking to him. Her parents were still on her back
about college.

( Four Days Later)

Min had fallen asleep after reading form Wicked to A.j. and
was holding his hand, the book was open resting on the edge of the
bed. Slowly his eyes opened and he saw her asleep
by his side.
He couldn't quiet lift his hand completely but he moved it a little
brushing it against her arm.
She felt his hand and her eyes popped open," Alex!" she said when
she saw him awake.

He smiled he loved the sound of her voice, everything hurt
so bad though.

A couple tears slid down her cheeks. She reached up to wipe
them away," I'll go get the dr.," she said softly and she left his
room, once outside she leaned against the wall, she couldn't
believe he was actually awake, she had missed him so much.
She pulled herself away from the wall and went to find his Dr.

The Dr. examined him and of course would be keeping him a
few more days, but Aj would therapy to help walking again and
talking actually too, so he was writing everything down
so that way Min wouldn't have to be just talking.

( Four Months Later)
A.j's speech therapy had gotten through quicker than the
walking, and it was pissing him off. Min brought him to the hospital
everyday after he was released to therapy.

" FUCK! This is so stupid!" A.j. said angerily nearly
toppling over for the fifteenth time that day.

Min caught him so he wouldn't fall," Alex, these things take
time, but I see your mouth survived just fine," she said with a
smirk.

"Oh my mouth works just fine," A.j. said with a smirk
wiggling his eyebrows, he slipped an arm around Min pulling her body
up against his kissing her deeply.

She was startled, as she placed her free hand on the wall
behind his head kissing him back. When they pulled apart she looked
at him," What was that for?" she asked
softly.

"For being you. I can't believe you put your life on hold
for me," he said softly looking at her, he was falling for her but
he didn't think he could tell her that; She would be going to
USC(University of Southern California) soon and he would hopefully
be going to UCF(University of Central Florida).

"Alex, you've always been there for me when I needed
someone, how could I not be here for you?"

"You're not obligated to ya know, but It made me feel so
much better to hear your voice everyday, and when the hell did you
learn to sing? I've known you forever and you've never sang before,
what was up with that?"

She blushed a little," That was just something,no biggie..It
was just a poem I wrote I converted it into a song. I took piano
when I was younger."

"I've never seen you touch a piano."

"Outgrew it," she said," anyway come on Casanova, we have to
be at Nick and Nick's for their housewarming." Their friends had
moved into an apartment a few months ago but had waited to have
a housewarming til A.j. was mostly walking again.

"God I hate that damn chair," he said of the wheel chair he
had to use til he could walk again perfectly.

Min helped him over to the chair to help him back into it,"
Its not so bad , you're better each time you come here," she
reminded him.

"Yeah," he said," Hey you gonna wear something short to the
party?" he asked grinning.

She laughed," For you Alex, anything," she said with a smile
as she wheeled him out to the car. They stopped by her place first
so she could change, then stopped by his so he could change,
he still needed a little bit of help with that.
Once they were both ready Min drove them towards Nick and Nicki's
new place.

Chapter 12


“So these two decided to move in together when?” AJ asked from the passenger seat.
“I really don’t know. A lot has happened since the accident.”
“I guess.” He said looking out the window. “I never would have thought Nick and Nicki that serious. They never acted like it.”
“I know that’s what I was thinking.” She said. “But they seem happy. He never left her side when she ended up in the hospital either. At least I got company about 2 in the morning.”
“Wait Nicki was in the hospital? What for?”
“That I’m not really sure about. Nick didn’t go into much details and I was worried about you.” She said looking over at him smiling.

They finally pulled into the apartment parking lot and located the building that Nick and Nicki were living in. She looked for empty parking spot and found one.
“I guess we are the first one’s here. I don’t see anyone else’s car here.” She said turning off the car and opening her door.

As she was walking over to AJ’s side he opened the door and started to get out of the car.
“AJ will you wait a minute.” Min said as she rushed over.
“I’m tried of waiting.” He said as she helped him out of the car.
About that time Nick had appeared behind Min and helped her with AJ.

“Hey buddy. How are you?” Nick said giving him a hug.
“Good. Well getting better thanks to Min.” He said as he hugged his friend back. “We have some catching up to do I guess. Nicki, you, an apartment.” He said as they walked him up the stairs to the apartment.

“I see why you came down.” Min said as they started up the stairs.
“Yeah I figured he’d be a pain in the ass up the stairs.” Nick said laughing.
“Guys I’m right here.” AJ said hating the fact that he had to depend on friends to help him around.

Meanwhile Nicki was in the apartment feeding Evan on the sofa. She had no idea that AJ and Min were already heading up the stairs as she was flipping through the channels on the tv and breast feeding Evan.

As they reached the door Nick turned around and looked at both of them. He knew they would both be surprised as soon as they walked into the apartment.
“I need you both to be a little quiet ok.”
“Why?” They both asked at the same time.
Nick laughed. “Will you just trust me?” He said as he opened the door and saw Nicki on the couch feeding Evan.

“Baby. AJ and Min are here.” He said as he helped AJ through the door.

She wanted to jump up and hug him but she was in the middle of feeding Evan, who was covered by a baby blanket.
Both Min and AJ looked at her with confusion in their face.

“Um…” AJ managed to get out.
“Did um… I miss.. something..” Min asked looking at her friend with a blue baby blanket cover her.

Nicki let out a little laugh and motioned for them to sit down.
“Not really.” She said laughing as she pulled back the blanket a little to see how Evan was doing.
“Is he almost done?” Nick asked bending down to kiss her forehead and take a peak at his 1 month old son.
“I think so.” She said looking up at Nick.

AJ and Min still couldn’t believe their eyes. Their two bestfriends had a baby and neither of them even knew about it.

“I’ll be right back.” Nicki said getting up slowly with Evan in her arms. Nick had been in the kitchen getting some drinks when he heard Nicki walking towards the bedroom.

“Want me to take him.”
“Sure.” She said handing Evan to him. “He needs to be burped. Thanks hon. I didn’t want to fix myself in front of them.”
“I know baby.” He said kissing her again. He couldn’t be more happier than he was right now.

“Now daddy can show you off.” He said as he carried Evan into the living room.
“Min. J. This is my son Evan.” Nick said as he held Evan so they could see him.

“He is so little and so cute.” Min said reaching her arms out to hold him.
“How old?” AJ asked looking at him as Min held him. She looked so adorable holding Evan in her arms and talking to him.
“He is a month old.” Nick said smiling.
“Wow Nick a dad. I never would have thought. So I’m guessing this all happened…”

Nick sat down in the chair next to the couch as Nicki walked back into the living room she sat down on his lap.
“We found out a few months before graduation that we were pregnant.” Nick explained.
“And you told no one.” Min said finally looking up.
“We were going to at the graduation party after we got back….” Nick trailed off looking at Nicki.
“After we got married.” Nicki finished.
“What?” AJ and Min both said at the same time looking at their two friends.
“We wanted to tell everyone but then we found out about the accident. And I couldn’t bare to tell everyone while you were still in the hospital.” Nicki said looking at Min. “And then we found out that you would wake up from the coma and I couldn’t bare to have that taken away from you and Min. She was so happy finally.”

“Nicki you could have told me.” Min said as she looked at her friend with tears in her eyes. “But I forgive you since I have a cute little nephew now.” She said playing with Evan’s fingers and making him smile.

While Min and AJ played with Evan and talked with the Nick and Nicki some more the others had started to show up to their housewarming party.

Chapter 13


Nick and Nicki had to go through their story one more time
for the others minus Kevin who knew that day at the hospital that
she was pregnant.
Everyone was thrilled for their friends, and of course little Evan
got passed around.

Min was sitting on the arm of the sofa chair that Aj was
sitting in, everyone was of course glad to have A.j. back too." Need
anything to drink?" she asked.

" I can get it," A.j. said getting up from where he was
sitting.

Min jumped up again," Alex!" He was going to wind up
hurting himself worse and give her a heart attack at the same time.

"Min, really I'm fine," he said kissing her cheek.

"No dice Mclean," she said helping him into Nicki and Nick's
kitchen to grab a drink.

Nick was watching the two of them as Nicki was talking to
Shawn and Kevin who had Evan. " I think he likes her," he said.

"What?" Nicki said turning to her husband.

"A.j. likes Min."

Nicki laughed," Um....yeah. They've been friends for god
knows how long, you have been around the last four years haven't
you," she teased.

"No, i mean like I think he like likes her," Nick said, not
wanting to say love since he really had no idea.

"What am I going to have to do to get you trust me?" A.j.
asked her as they grabbed bottles of water and made their way to
where they were sitting.

"I do trust you Alex, I just don't want to loose you," she
said softly," I couldn't bare it if you hurt yourself worse than
before and ended up in the hospital again."

"Do I look like I'm going anywhere anytime soon?" he asked
with a grin.

"Stop Alex," she said quietly, he joked alot but it wasn't
funny. She was frowning now as she sat there looking at him.

He sighed softly," Min, don't think I wasn’t terrified because
I was. And when I heard your voice but couldn't respond it hurt like
hell. But I don't know how else to take this, I want my life
back and it's not going to happen over night. So I joke alot,
because I don't want to be sad and mopey."

" I know," she said softly," I know I probably worry too
much too, but I thought I had lost you."

"Girl, you couldn't loose me even if you tried," he said.

She playfully hit his arm and then remembered the dream that
she had while she was by his bedside," Hey Alex, I needed to ask you
something."

"Sure what?"

"Love's."

A.j. looked at her funny," Um...baby doll that's a store,
you know on main street."

"I know!" she said rolling her eyes," I'm not blonde, but i
had a dream and that's what you said to me. You said Love's."

"Oh shit!" he said remembering," Yeah I got you something,
that's where I was going that day to pick it up from Love's."

"Awww," Min said softly.

He smiled," Its not a big deal," he said with shrug," I just
wanted to give you something to remember me by before you went off
to USC and forgot about me."

"You know I could never forget about you," she said softly.

Nick and Nicki had decided to order wings, and pizzas and
breadsticks for their friends, so when there was a knock on their
door they knew it was the food," I got it," Nick said with a smile,as
he went to the door he paid the delivery guy and brought the food
back into the house.
He set it on the coffee table with a bunch of paper plates, and
plastic untensils, and napkins. Nicki had laid Evan down in his
bassinett so that she could eat with her friends.

Aj loved pizza especially Pepperoni pizza but his mind was
elsewhere tonight, he picked at the pepperoni on the plate before
him. He knew next semester would be hell on wheels with him at UCF,
and Min all the way in Cali.
He didn't want her to go, he didn't think he would be able to make
it through spring semester without her.
"Don't go," he said softly, he didn't want their friends to hear him.

Min looked at him tilting her head to one side," I'm right
here Alex, you okay?" she asked.

"No don't go to California," he said.

"Alex...."

"Please don't," he said as a couple of tears started to fall.

She didn't know what to say she had never seen him like this
before, she opened her mouth but no words came out of them.

"Shit," he said wiping away the tears, he hated to cry
especially in front of her." Forget I said anything," he said. He
didn't know what was wrong with him, but he wasn't about to sit here
and cry
like a baby just because his best friend was going to go thousands
of miles away.

Chapter 14


Nicki had slipped away from everyone for a few minutes to check on Evan. As a new mom she tended to worry about him a little more. Min noticed her walk into the baby’s room and had decided to follow her. She needed some advice and she just wanted to catch up with her friend.

“Hey.” Min whispered as she entered the room.
“Hey.” Nicki said looking up and smiling. “What’s up?”
“Nothing I just wanted to talk to you. I feel like we’ve grown apart or something. I mean you and Nick getting married. Evan.”
“I know. I just feel right telling everyone with AJ in the hospital.”
“Nicki you’ve really got to learn to stop thinking about other people sometimes.” Min said laughing. “I would have been there for you. We could have went shopping or something.”
“Min I really am sorry.”
“I know.” Min said as she found a place on the floor to sit down. Nicki joined her as well on the floor.
“So what’s really bothering you?”
“Alex doesn’t want me to go to Cali for school. He wants me to stay.”
“What do you want Min?”

Min looked down at the floor for a few minutes then over to where Evan was sleeping. She looked around Evan’s room and then at Nicki who was nothing but smiles lately.
“I want this.”
“And what is this.” Nicki said as she giggled a little.
“I want the husband and the baby.”
“What about college?”
“Do you regret any of this Nicki?”
“No. I love Nick and I love Evan more than anything in the world. I still have dreams of going to school though.”
“I just don’t know what to do.”

Nicki stood up and walked over to the closet and pulled down a shoebox that was hidden in the corner. She walked back over to where Min was sitting and sat back down.
“I never showed Nick this. Hell I haven’t showed anyone this.” Nicki said as she opened the box and pulled out an envelope. She handed it to Min.

Min pulled out the letter and read it.
“Nicki why didn’t you tell me.. or anyone that you got excepted into Harvard.” Min said as she looked at her friend.
“The day I got this letter was the day I found out I was pregnant with Evan. The day I went to tell Nick about Harvard he asked me to marry him.”
“But Nicki…”
“No buts Min. I made my decision to have a family. I don’t regret it. I wouldn’t change it.”
“Then why do you still have the letter?”
“That one day I can show Evan that his mom was accepted into Harvard.” She said laughing. “Do you love Alex?”

Min looked at her kind of shocked. “Depending on how you answer that question in your heart will answer your question to stay or leave. As for Evan and I we would love for you to stay.” She said leaning over and hugging her friend.

“Thanks Nicki.” Min said as the girls stood up.
“Whatever you do decide Min it has to be your choice no one else’s. I’ll stand behind you no matter what.”

Min hugged Nicki again. She knew in her heart what she wanted to do now.

Just as they were getting ready to walk out of the room Evan had started to cry a little.
“I’ll get him.” Min said as she walked over and picked up Evan.

Chapter 15

Min & A.j. had left Nicki and Nick's place a bit earlier than
everyone else so that A.j. could get home and just chill.
Once A.j. was changed for bed and settled Min was in his bathroom
changing into her own night clothes and she couldn't stop thinking
about her conversation with Nicki. It was true what she said about
wanting that a family and the man she loved, though a college letter
was burning a hole in her purse, she hadn't opened it yet. After
changing she tried to push those thoughts out of her mind as she went
to crawl in beside A.j.

"Where are you?" A.j. asked looking at her.

His words brought her out of her thoughts as she turned to him,"
What do you mean?" she asked confused," I'm right here Alex."

"You're a million miles away. So where exactly are you?"

"I'm sorry," she said softly gently resting her hand against his
cheek," I've just got things on my mind."

"You worry too much."

"I know, but I mean I almost lost you," she said softly," and…I never
would have gotten to tell you."

"Tell me what?"

"I love you."

Reaching over he pulled her closer to his side as he leaned in
kissing her softly," I have no plans to go anywhere," he promised.

Desperately she wished that she could say the same thing but in all
honesty she really did not know if she had any future plans to go away
such as to college. Instead for now though she kissed him back
Softly and slowly as the kiss began to deepen she knew that tonight
she was where she wanted to be and that was all that mattered.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

As the days soon turned into weeks Min had finally opened that letter
and found out that she had infact been accepted to her dream school,
which was in California which was of course miles and miles
Away from here and from Alex, it wasn't an opportunity that she could
pass up yet at the same time she knew she would have to say something
to him. It had to be at the right moment because she already knew that
he would seriously upset as it was. She had to do this so she went
about filling out the required paperwork and sending off everything to
seal her place starting at the beginning of that term.

________________________________________________________________________________
_____

Kevin was sitting at Shawn's kitchen table while Shawn was baking," Hey
has Min said anything to you about college plans?" he asked looking at
his gf.

Shawn turned her head to look at Kevin," Actually no she hasn't," she
said with a frown and considered that sort of strange.

" I didn't think so, its just strange for her ya know? I mean for as
long as I've known her atleast she has always looked forward to the
college experience, and now that she's finally graduated its like
nothing."

" Well I know that she did apply to a bunch of schools I went with
her to the post office to mail all of it off right after she got her
ACT score back. "

"I'm just worried that she might be putting a lot of the things she
wanted on the back burner for A.j."

Shawn shook her head while she finished pouring the batter into the
pan and then slid it into the oven , closing its door. Then proceeded
to wash the dishes while still talking to Kevin," No she's not like
that, and besides really A.j. would never let her do that. He knows
her and he would never hold her back like that."

" I just hope that you're right," Kevin said, though he would make
sure that he tried to talk to Min soon and see what she had planned
for college, or rather if she had any solid plans for college.

________________________________________________________________________________
_____

A.j. was doing better with rehab and in about another month or two he
would more than likely be off of the crutches and back on his feet
again. After his session that day he had Brian drop him off at Min's
place, she had been staying in her mom's empty condo during the days
and then staying the nights with him at his place.

"You sure you don't need some help atleast getting to her door or I
could call her and have her come out," Brian said to his friend.

"B chill," A.j. said with a small chuckle," its three small little
steps she lives on a ground level walk in condo."

"Mmm alright," Brian said, though he knew that he and the others
would continue to worry until their friend was fully back on his feet.

"Thanks," A.j. said and then on his crutches made his way from the
parking lot down the sidewalk to her building and up the three small
steps and then to her door which was on the right, while steadying
himself he pulled from his pocket the spare key that she had given him
then let himself into the place."Min!" he called shutting the door
behind him.

Brian had pulled away once he had seen his friend disappear into the
condo, driving away form the complex.

Min came out of the bedroom and smiled when she saw A.j," Hey Alex,"
she said slipping her arms around him and kissing him softly.
She had missed him today despite all of the things that were on her
mind and she was glad to see him right now.

He smiled as he kissed her back as he stayed balanced on his
crutches," Someone miss me?" he asked with a smile after he pulled
away from the kiss.

"Mmmm Guilty as charged," she admitted as she helped him from where
he was standing over to the couch..

Chapter 16

A.J. sank down onto the couch,” What did you do all day?” he asked.

“Um just the usual things,’ Min said as she sat down next to him on the couch,” Alex, I need to tell you something,” she said quietly. After a lot of deliberation she had decided that it was best to go ahead and just tell him her decision.

“Is something wrong?”

“No, no nothing like that,” she assured him,” It’s just well I’ve decided that I am going to USC, I started to fill out the acceptance things today, and will be talking to the housing office in the morning.”

“So you’re leaving me,” A.j. said quietly as he shifted his gaze so it was directed out the window.

“Alex, look at me,” she said softly as she touched his arm,” I am not leaving you; I’m going away to school. I love you and that’s not going to change.” She had gone to Love’s a picked up the necklace that A.j had gotten her, and since then she had been wearing it around her neck.

“Yeah it will change, why can’t you understand that? You’ll get bored of emailing, of talking on the phone, you’ll show maybe on a holiday or two, but I’ll be just this distant memory to you.”

Lifting her hand she caressed his cheek gently,” Never,” she said softly. “Please trust me when I say that this can work. You’re my reason for everything Alex, but I have to go to school and so do you.”

A.J. wished he had the guts to ask her to marry him because if he did he would do it in a heartbeat, but right now he just didn’t know.
Also knowing her she would think it was a way to keep her from going to California and therefore would refuse the proposal.

She slipped her arms around his neck kissing his cheek softly,” We can do this; it won’t be as hard as you’re making it out to be.”

“I’m tired I think I’m going to take a nap,” A.j. said not bothering to reply to what she had just said.

“Did you want me to help you to the bedroom?”

“No, I’ll stay here on the couch thanks,” A.j. said, and Min got up moving as A.j shifted to lay down and take his nap.

Min went into her room and shut the door silently and then picked up her phone and called Nicki, talking to her friend on the phone briefly before hanging up. Not wanting to disturb A.J., Min went outside to wait for Nicki who was coming over.

Fifteen minutes later Nicki arrived pulling into a parking space and got out of her car,” Min, is everything okay? You sounded really upset on the phone.”

“He hates me,” Min whispered as the tears started to fall down her cheeks.

“Uhoh does this mean you made a decision about college?” Nicki asked going to her friend and hugging her.

“Yeah, I am going to USC, but Nicki we both need to go to school why can’t he see that?”

Nicki looked at Min,” Well honestly I think he’s afraid of loosing you to someone else.”

“Who someone else?”

“Anyone else, a lot happens when you go away to college Min, it changes people and he might just be afraid that it’ll come between you two.”

“What am I supposed to do? If I turn down USC, that’s it for me Nicki. I didn’t apply to any Florida Schools and all the deadlines have passed already for admission. If I stay he’ll be going to UFC and I’ll be sitting at home doing nothing.”

“I don’t know what tell you,” she said honestly.” But I’m happy with where I am and if nothing else both of you could go to community college, and then you could apply to UFC and go with him for the next semester after one semester of Com College.”

“ I know but he wont agree to going to community college.”

“He can be stubborn.”

Min sighed,” Yeah.”

“Do you want to go out maybe get coffee?”

“No its okay, he’s sleeping so I don’t wanna leave him. It’ll be fine, its just a rough period right now.”

“Alright if you change your mind let me know,” Nicki said before hugging her friend again, and then climbed into her car to head back to her apartment.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

January

January had arrived a lot sooner than A.J. would have liked, which meant second semester of college was starting.
His doctor had cleared him and he was walking on his own now, he had a little bit of trouble with his knee, which had required surgery to it but it was healing better now and today he was finally off the crutches for good. Min had gone through with going to USC and was flying out in the morning and then A.J. was driving down to UFC.

A.J. lay on his bed in his room, his mom was out today and he was glad he wanted the quiet for the moment. Min appeared in his doorway,” Alex,” she said softly.

His eyes opened as he looked up at her,” Yeah?” he replied.

“ How mad are you still…at me I mean?” she asked quietly.

He sighed running his hand through his hair,” I’m still extremely pissed at you actually,” he said honestly. He sat up carefully and looked at her,” I could have died that night on graduation and its like you don’t even care.”

“What! Of course I care,” she said looking at him shocked. She walked into the room and sat beside him on the bed.” Alex, I was there every day and night by your side. There were days I could barely function, the sight of you like….” She trailed off swallowing softly.” It killed me,” she said softly. “ You’re my reason for everything and I know ive said that before but its true,” she said softly. She reached up resting her hand against his cheek. “ Me going away to school doesn’t have to be the end of us.”

A.J. looked at her,” I’ll humor you on that one, but give it a few months and you’ll see that it’ll be the end of us,” he said quietly. “ You’ll see.” She didn’t know what to say because there was nothing more that she could do to convince him of what was in her heart. She felt it breaking right now as she sat in front of him.
He slid an arm around her leaning in he brushed his lips against hers softly,” I love you. I’ll always love you,” he said softly as he broke away from her resting his forehead against hers.


………………..