erinm_4600
in
12to32
Fic: To Each His Own
Title: To Each His Own
Author: Erin (erinm_4600)
Characters, Pairing: The Backstreet Boys and a handful of OCs
Rating: PG
Summary: There's one girl on the planet who doesn't swoon at the sight of AJ McLean. He'll have to do something about that.
Warning: I was young and didn't know any better. n_e_star: You asked for it. And, against my better judgement, I complied. This was written September 27, 2002. -One month away from being freaky o.O- Posting as-is for posterity.
Disclaimer: The Backstreet Boys belong to themselves. The OCs are mine.
"Loyd steps up to the line. This shot will make or break the game." Harry Loyd stood at the free-throw line in the basketball court. She took her stance and continued: "The crowd goes silent as Loyd prepares to take the shot." After a moment, the ball went up. "And it's..." The ball missed the backboard and hit the fence. "...Terrible!" Harriette Loyd went after the stray ball and made her way back to the line.
"How about a lay-up?" she asked a robin that had just landed nearby. "Okay," she stated as the bird flew away. She jumped up and down for a moment, then took a running start for the basket. As she let the ball go, it hit the backboard, circled the rim a few times, then flew out.
"Aww!" Harry fell to the ground and lay on the court for a moment. She soon got up and chased after the ball.
Brian Littrell, his cousin Kevin Richardson, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough and AJ McLean -- known to the world as the Backstreet Boys -- were walking down a New York City street, heading for the nearest basketball court. As they neared the complex of four courts, AJ pointed out to the guys that someone was out on a court.
"So?" Brian asked. "They are open courts."
"Yeah, but she's got the good one."
"The good one?" Howie asked. AJ pointed to each of the baskets and the fact that only four of the eight baskets had nets, two of which were on the occupied court.
"And there's no sun on that back court," he added smugly.
"Oh big whoop, Bone," Nick stated.
"Hey! Excuse me for looking out for your best interests."
"Oh yeah," Nick replied, "I'm interested in kicking a girl off a court because the sun won't be in my eyes." While they argued, Kevin watched the girl dunk three balls in a row.
"Ya know what," he said putting a hand on nick's shoulder, "let him try." Nick and Brian were shocked.
"What?" Nick yelled.
"You can't be serious, cuz." Kevin only nodded. AJ, with a pompous grin, headed over to the court.
"Kev..." Howie started. Kevin waved his hand.
"No one said he'd succeed." Brian, Howie and Nick looked at each other, smiled, and moved in for a closer listen.
Harry threw the ball and as it bounced off the backboard, AJ picked it up. As he walked towards her, Harry raised an eyebrow.
"Nice shootin'," AJ remarked, dribbling the ball.
"Thanks." AJ looked at the ball and then looked to the hoop, as if he was getting ready to take a shot. Just before he let the ball go, he looked at Harry.
"Do you mind?" Harry shook her head. AJ fixed his stance and shot the ball. It bounced off the backboard and right to Harry.
"Good try." AJ looked at the basket and then back to Harry.
"Eh, it was off..." Harry bounced the ball. "So... uh... I was wonderin'..." AJ fidgeted. "Well, ya see... my friends and I... well, we were up for a game and... uh..."
"And you want the court with two nets." AJ looked at her as if to say 'am I a pig?' Harry turned her head to look back at this guy's 'friends,' who could only give her dumb waves. As she looked back to AJ, she stated,
"Tell ya what. We'll shoot for it. You make it, I go. I make it... you play without a net." AJ pretended to think about it and waved the guys over.
"Deal, but I have a stipulation. I win, you let me buy you a Coke. You win, I still buy you a Coke." AJ put his hand out.
"Make it a Pepsi and you got a deal." Harry took his hand and they shook. AJ then took the ball and took a second to set up his shot. As he let go of the ball, he held up his hands in a field-goal fashion. The ball hit the rim and sank into the net.
"Thank you very much!" Harry gave him a golf clap, as did the guys, and an 'impressive' look. Nick grabbed the ball and returned to the group.
"Here," he said as he passed the ball to Harry.
"Thanks." She looked at the basket and got set up for the shot, but instead of shooting, she turned 90 degrees and faced AJ. "You sure about this?" AJ didn't even flinch.
"Absolutely." Harry shook her head and as she faced AJ, she tossed the ball in the direction of the basket. AJ laughed as everyone else watched the ball sail through the air and make the 'swoosh' sound at the ball missed the rim and sailed through the net. Harry raised her arms.
"Nothin' but net!" Kevin, Brian, Howie and Nick just laughed while AJ stood with a shocked look on his face.
"Nice shot," Brian stated. Harry watched AJ, who was obviously replaying the scene in his head, trying to figure out how she pulled that shot off. After a second, he looked at her and asked,
"You planned that, didn't you? You knew you'd beat my ass, huh?!" Harry answered,
"Yeah, but it was fun." She smiled and added, "No hard feelings, I hope." AJ didn't look very happy. Kevin, Brian, Howie and Nick snickered.
"Don't worry about him. He'll get over it," Kevin stated.
"Yeah... Stay-J..." Howie was trying to say through a chuckle. The guys couldn't hold their laughter anymore. Nick nudged Brian.
"Screw Frick and Frack! I like Bitin' and Lick..." Brian laughed again and AJ could only give them the Spock eyebrow, He moved around Harry to see what the fuss was about. Harry was wearing a Big Dog parody T-shirt, featuring the 'Barkstreet Boys.' It was a takeoff of the first album cover with each of the guys looking like St. Bernards. There was Lick/Nick, Bitin'/Brian, Bowwowie D./Howie D., Stay J./AJ and Fetchin'/Kevin. AJ gave Harry a look and simply said,
"Cute." Harry gave him a smile and turned to the guys. She picked one of the basketballs up from the ground and said,
"It's getting late. Enjoy the court." Brian stuck his hand out.
"You don't have to leave on account of us. I'm Brian." She took his hand.
"Harry, and I've got stuff at home that needs to be done."
"Harry?" AJ asked rudely. Harry shot him a look.
"Yeah... short for Harriette, which I don't prefer." She emphasized the 'don't' and AJ backed off a little. Howie stepped in.
"Ignore him. He's having a bad hat day. I'm Howie. This is Nick," he said while shaking her hand and pointing to the youngest Backstreet Boy.
"And I'm Kevin," Kev stated. He nodded towards AJ. "And Mr. Polite there is AJ." Harry shook Kevin's hand.
"Pleased to meet all of you." As she glanced at her watch, Harry backed up and added, "Well, gotta run. Don't have too much fun." She smiled and turned away, missing AJ's dirty look. As she got closer to the street, Brian looked at the ball on the ground and yelled after her.
"Harry! Wait up!" He ran towards her and had four sets of eyes on him.
"Yeah?" Harry asked as he got closer. He held up the ball and they said together,
"Wrong ball." They switched with a laugh and Brian asked,
"Do you know of any good restaurants in this area? We were hoping for something OTHER than Mickey Dee's for once." Harry looked up as if to help her thought process.
"Well, Bottocelli's is down the street a bit... it's Italian... but you strike me as the Sanford's type," she concluded with a smile. Brian smiled back.
"Where would we find this place?"
"Oh, well... you go down this street here..." she pointed behind her, "...and it's about four blocks down that way on the right." Brian nodded and then looked back at the guys, who seemed to be getting impatient. He grinned, turned back to harry, and added,
"Would you join us?"
"The band?" Brian blinked.
"Uh... no... I meant for dinner. If you're not too busy..."
"No... I'd love too... but I'm flat broke and I don't think that AJ is very fond of me..." Brian raised a hand.
"My treat, as a way of saying thank you for what you pulled off on him. That was great." Harry shifted.
"Oh, I don't know..."
"I promise we don't bite." Harry smiled.
"Tell you what. I'll go along in case you change your mind." Brian laughed.
"Okay, should we meet you or pick you up?"
"Let's meet here... say... 7:15?"
"Deal." They shook hands again and Brain started toward the guys. "Ooh!" He turned back to Harry. "What's the dress code."
"I would guess that as long as you're wearing something, you're in."
"Nifty. See ya at 7:15 then." Harry nodded and turned away.
As Brian neared the other four Backstreet Boys, Nick asked,
"So, dude... you get all her vitals or what?" Brian shot the ball, sinking it.
"Actually, I was asking about a good eating place."
"Anything?" Kevin asked.
"Yeah, a place called Sanford's. She's meeting us here at 7:15 to lead the way." AJ whined,
"You invited her?!"
"Yes, I did. I was being polite, which is more than I can say for you, Bone."
"You gotta admit, AJ, that was a good shot," Howie added.
"Maybe she'll teach it to ya," Kevin stated.
"She was cute. Not my type," Nick said, "but cute."
'Yeah, a real spitfire,' AJ thought. 'No! Don't even go there AJ! Don't set yourself up for more heartache.' AJ's love life was next to nothing recently and he didn't see that point in even trying to start a new relationship. That thing with the Innosense gal didn't work out. 'She's not even my type,' he thought. Brian tapped him and tossed the ball towards the hoop. AJ shook his head and was soon lost in the game.
Harry pushed open the door to the apartment and tossed her keys onto the kitchen counter.
"Harriette? Is that you?" came a voice from in the kitchen. Harry rolled her eyes as she replied,
"Yeah, ma. Whadda ya need?" Harry's mom poked her head out into the entryway.
"Just wanted to make sure you were home. I have a meeting tonight and I could be gone a while, so you and your sister are on your own." Harry nodded. "You can have Mac and Cheese or soup or one of those microwaveable pizzas..." The phone rang while she mumbled on. "Hello? Yeah, I guess... Are you sure it's okay? Yeah... Okay, see you tomorrow... Bye." She hung up. "That was Caroline. She's staying at Patricia's tonight and then they are spending all day to get ready for the concert. Guess you'll have to fend for yourself." She started stacking papers on the dining room table.
"Mom?"
"What dear?"
"Mom, I got invited to Sanford's. Can I go?"
"Who invited you?" mom asked, still sorting papers.
"Some friends." Mom looked out of the corner of her eye.
"Do I know these friends?"
"No... but they're nice. It's not like they're gonna jump me in the park or anything. Besides, it's just down the street. Please?" Mom sighed.
"I guess so... you don't socialize much anyway. But only to Sanford's. No wild parties. Got it?" Harry nodded. "Okay, I've got to get going or I'll never make it." Harry shook her head and went to her room, which she shared with her twin sister, Carrie. One side of the room was plastered with BSB posters and pictures and normal teenage girl stuff.
The other was very sedate and had a large Monkees poster over the bed, along with some smaller ones on the wall as well; Muppets on the bed, computer crap all over the desk and a bookcase full of Star Wars and Star Trek books.
Harry sat down on her bed and picked up the stuffed Cookie Monster and stared at the huge, almost life-size poster of the Backstreet Boys hanging on the wall over Carrie's bed.
Carrie was what you'd call an obsessed fan. She and her best friends - Patty and Liza - had gone to Wal*Mart the day they got their BSB tickets and bought new underwear and Sharpies. They thought it would be a brilliant idea to write their names and addresses on the undies and toss them to the boys or better yet, get into the meet-n-greet and hand them over. Go figure that Harry was having dinner with them! 'Can't wait to tell Carrie,' she thought.
The sisters really weren't all that alike. In fact, they were NOTHING alike -- and they really couldn't stand each other. Carrie was the popular, trendy one, while Harry was a loner and considered 'just one of the guys' at school. While Carrie was at the mall more than at home or school, Harry was happy in a pair of baggy jeans and a T-shirt. Carrie went to the prom, Harry went to the movies. Carrie had a second row seat to the BSB concert, while Harry was planning on watching the "Adventures in Wonderland" marathon on Disney. Harry looked at her watch -- 4:45 p.m.
**Over at Patty's**
"Let's go out for dinner."
"Naw, let's just watch the Homecoming concert again and get pizza."
"I wonder if they are in town yet... Wouldn't it be cool if we ate at the same restaurant?"
"Too many places that they could be."
**6:30 p.m.**
"We should get going if we're gonna meet her at 7:15," Howie states looking at his watch.
"Yeah…" Brain added. "Any day, bone!"
"Get real, Bri! Talk to Grandpa about slow!" Kevin looked up.
"Hey!"
By 6:45, the boys were leaving the hotel for the basketball courts. They arrived at the court by 7 and were just standing around with their hands in their pockets when Harry came around the corner. She noticed that they were in an "I Want It That Way"-type ensemble and she was glad she'd dressed up. As she walked up to Brian, she asked,
"You guys hungry or what?" Brian and Nick grinned and Kevin and Howie -- who were playing paper, Rock, Scissors -- looked up. AJ looked at her and was awestruck. Harry -- who never had gotten all decked out for anyone -- had added some curl to her otherwise straight blonde hair, and was wearing black jeans and an antique blue, short sleeved silk shirt, and a black jacket.
The guys got situated and Brian and Kevin each offered her an arm. Nick and Howie offered each other a arm and followed. AJ gave them all the dirtiest look and tagged along.
As they entered Sanford's, a blue sports car drove by with at least two gaping passengers. The place was decorated to look like a sports equipment junkyard. There were pennants on the ceiling, old baseball photos and hockey sticks on the walls. The tables looked like Metal shop projects and the plates looked like hubcaps. Harry could tell that Brain and Nick were in heaven.
"Ya know," she stated, pointing up, "at Christmas, they decorate a tree and hang it from the ceiling." Nick, AJ and Howie looked up at the ceiling, which had to be at least 12 feet off the floor. After they were seated and handed menus, Kevin asked,
"So, what's good here?" He added a smile.
"Well, I usually have the Chicken Caesar, but the chicken strips are good…the burgers are okay. Stay clear of the onion rings though." Kevin and Howie laughed.
**Back at Patty's**
"You'll never guess who we passed on the way over here!"
"NO!"
"Yes! They were going into Sanford's!"
"Oh my God! We have to try and see them! Let's go!"
**Back at Sanford's**
By 8, the lines had grown and it was harder to seat people. By the time Carrie, Patty and Liza had arrived, there was a 40 minute wait.
"We just wanna see the Backstreet Boys…We don't need a table!" Patty whined. The doorman held up his hands.
"Sorry ladies. It's already too busy in there." Carrie was about to say something when her face dropped. She grabbed Patty's arm and said,
"Tell me you don't see this..." Patty looked in and finally saw what Carrie was referring too. Harry was at a table listening to Howie tell an obviously funny story. Next to her were Brian and Nick. She didn't see AJ staring at Harry the whole time.
"Oh boy..." she murmured. Carrie looked at Patty.
"How did my sister -- Miss Anti-BSB -- get in to sit with them?! We're the fans! You let her in and not us?!" Their waitress was looking at the waiting list and overheard what Carrie said.
"Oh, she came in with them," She proceeded to walk away. Patty and Liza pulled Carrie away from the door quickly.
Harry glanced in AJ's direction a few times. How could she not? All she felt all through the meal was his eyes on her. When AJ got up to use the restroom, Nick asked,
"So, what kinds of music do you like? Aside from us, I mean…"
"Well, I don't really listen to you guys, except for when my sister has you blasting through the apartment."
"Oh... I thought... ya know... Well, you had the shirt..."
"Oh," Harry laughed, "I got that to piss her off." This made Brian and Kevin laugh. "I mean, I like your stuff, but it's not my first choice. No offense." AJ returned to the table.
"None taken," brain said with a smile. "But seriously, what do you listen to?"
"I'm quite partial to the Monkees." AJ choked on his Pepsi. Kevin patted him on the back and asked,
"Do you watch the show?"
"Oh yeah! My favorite was the haunted house..." Nick shook his head.
"Who are the Monkees?" From the looks he got, he stated, "Geez, if looks could kill…"
"You know," Kevin said, "...'Hey, hey we're the Monkees'..." Nick shook his head.
"Well, it was before your time." Howie mentioned.
"I also love musicals and um... country..." AJ asked,
"What's your favorite?"
"Pardon?"
"What's your favorite show?"
"Well, if it's the movie version, I'd have to say 'On The Town.' I love Gene Kelly. But for stage... well... either Forum or 1776." AJ nodded.
"Ah, well, I like Phantom myself." Harry held up a glass and smiled.
"To each his own." He nodded and they clinked glasses.
By 9, the waitress wanted to sit someone else at the table, but they had racked up quite a bill, so she let them stay. When she finally dropped off the check, she mentioned,
"By the way miss, a girl stopped by. Said she was your sister." Harry's eyes bugged.
By 9:30, Nick and Kevin were falling asleep, so the group decided to head out. The guys walked Harry to her apartment and Harry asked,
"Can you find your way back to the hotel?" Brian and Howie looked at each other, then AJ stated,
"I don't think these guys could find their way to the bathroom, let alone the courts." Harry nodded.
"Let me run upstairs real quick and I'll walk you back."
"But then we'll have to walk you back here. We can get a cab…" Kevin said concerned.
"No, it's cool. Besides…you won't find a cab around here until 6 when they are picking folks up for the day shift. She looked down the street and then back to the guys. "You wanna hang here or come up?" It'll just take me a sec..." Nick was wide awake.
"Could I use your facilities?"
"Sure. Free water, TV and pit stops, right this way." Harry opened the door and waved the group in. The Loyd apartment was on the upstairs, with most widows overlooking the street. When they got up, Kevin and Brain sat on the couch while Nick and Howie were shown the bathrooms -- one was off of Mom's room. AJ followed Harry into her room.
"Sorry about the mess... and that..." she motioned to the shrine on her sister's side of the room. As she dug through her nightstand drawer, AJ asked,
"So, you a big fan?" Harry didn't even look up.
"Not mine. My sister's the fan and I only listen to you guys when I can't turn mine up any more." She looked up at AJ and smiled. "I'm not really a fan." She pointed to the Monkees poster and went to the closet. AJ looked out the window.
"Nice fire escape." Harry walked over and stated,
"Yeah... It's good for getting out and away from my sister." AJ nodded and took one last look around. Something on the bookshelf separating the Star Trek and Star Wars books caught his eye, but he said nothing. The rest of the most popular group in the world were already gathered in the living room and they all left the apartment.
"11:30... what time do we have to be there tomorrow?" Brian asked tiredly.
"9... photo shoot for the paper," Kevin replied.
"Then sound check and dance rehearsal should take us to 4:45," Howie added. Brian hung his head. As they crossed the courts, AJ nudged Harry.
"So," he asked quietly, "what'd you think of the 'Everybody' video?"
"I wish it lasted longer. It's too much to be wrapped up in three and a half minutes." AJ gave her a sly grin.
"I thought you weren't a fan?" Harry gave him a look.
"Well, I'm not going to the concert!"
"What do you mean?" Nick asked, obviously hurt.
"Well, little missy here's not a fan," AJ said smugly. Before Brain and Nick could say anything, Harry put a hand up.
"Wait a minute! Yes, I listen to the music, some of it is quite good." Brain smiled. "But if you're looking for the girls who are first in line to buy tickets and buying every sticker and taping every appearance, well…you're looking for my sister and her friends." Howie came up beside her.
"You make them sound like bus chasers."
"If the shoe fits..." Kevin laughed and Nick stopped her.
"So, you're saying that you'd listen to our song if it came on the radio, but you wouldn't buy the tape?"
"Probably."
"Yeah, but you'll dump $20 for the All-Access video," AJ stated. Five sets of eyes locked on Harry.
"Hey, 'Everybody's' a classic. And I find that whole morphing thing very interesting!" Brian put his arms on her shoulders.
"Boys! We have a closet listener!" the guys cheered and AJ stared at Harry. As a matter of fact, he stared at her the rest of the way to the hotel. As Nick and Kevin went upstairs, Howie went to check messages and AJ tried to hail a cab. Brain watched AJ glancing back on and off and asked Harry,
"So, you wouldn't go to a concert?" Harry shook her head.
"Probably not." Brian stuffed his hands in his pockets and looked at the ground.
"Not even if you were invited?"
"Well," Harry crossed her arms, "Depends on who's doing the inviting." He laughed.
"What if I invited you?" Harry looked at him and smiled.
"Why, Mister Littrell... whatever would the others say?" she asked in a fake Southern accent. He chuckled and continued,
"So?"
"So what?" Harry's eyes were fixed on AJ, who'd waved down a cab.
"Will you come tomorrow? As our friend, of course." Harry stepped away and turned to him.
"I'll think about it. See ya 'round, Kentucky boy." She smiled and turned toward AJ and the cab. As she approached, AJ opened the door for her. She smiled and stated,
"Why thank you, kind sir. It was fun."
"Yeah," AJ replied with a dull look. "We'll have to do it again sometime..." They looked at each other for a moment.
"Well..." Harry stated.
"Well..." AJ copied with a shrug. Harry stuck her hand out.
"Thanks for dinner and the walk."
"No problem," AJ replied as he shook her hand. Harry sighed.
"Would... would it be completely improper of me to give you a... a hug?" AJ looked surprised.
"A hug?"
"Yeah..." He could only shrug. He outstretched his arms and Harry gave him a quick hug. "Thanks again and sorry for this afternoon. No hard feelings?" She looked hopeful. AJ shook his hand around and grinned.
"Naw. It was all good, clean fun."
"Cool." She smiled again and gave him a peck on the cheek. When she realized what she'd done, she turned bright red and as she searched for the right words, all she could come up with was,
"Sorry." She ducked into the cab and AJ pushed the door shut. As the cab pulled away, AJ and Brain waved and AJ's hand went to his cheek. A large grin swept across his face, but he quickly erased it before heading to Brian's side.
"Well, that was a night to remember."
"It was fun... ya know... just hangin' out."
"Yeah..." AJ watched the cab turn the corner.
"Good company."
"Uh huh." AJ was gone.
"She's cute."
"Yeah... what?" He snapped back, unsure of what Brian had just said.
"Nothin'... Let's get some sleep." He turned to go in, while AJ stood on the steps thinking about the kiss. 'No, AJ, don't go there. You don't need a relationship. Hell, she's not even your type.'
Upstairs, AJ walked in on Nick and Howie gossiping about Harry and him.
"Whatever, guys. She's not my type. We wouldn't get along after five minutes." Kevin raised an eyebrow.
"Sure, Bone. Whatever you say..." AJ huffed and went into the bathroom.
Harry handed the cabbie $8 and got out. As she made her way upstairs, she not only decided that she might have to buy the new CD, but she prayed that her sister wasn't waiting for her.
**Around 11:45 p.m.**
Brian and Howie were up whispering.
"I asked her, she wouldn't say..."
"Well, AJ's sure acting differently... It's about time though. I don't know how much more of his moping I could take."
"Yeah..." They grew silent when someone shifted. "You know," Brian continued, "when they find out we're setting them up..."
"They'll get over it. They're perfect for each other."
"I don't know... I think Harry could take me..."
"Whatever."
"Ya know... I think that's the first time I've had dinner with a normal person…"
"What?" Nick's voice made them jump. "I'm normal."
"And your point is?" Howie asked smiling, and still whispering.
"Shut up," Brian stated.
"What are we talking about?" Nick asked quietly.
"Don't you pay attention," came a voice in the direction of Kevin. He sat up and ran a hand through his hair. "They're talking about setting AJ up with Harriette. Duh." Brian glared at his cousin.
"Well…at least we're discussing it." Kevin leaned back on one arm.
"Cuz, I'm almost 30 and I spend my days dancing around on stage for 12- and 13-year olds. I can't worry about Bone's love life. I need sleep."
"Whatever, Gramps," Howie said waving him off. AJ stirred, causing everyone to freeze. When he settled, Brain stated,
"Listen... I'll go down after lunch and get her to go." Kevin lay back down.
"Hell, just lock 'em in a broom closet and get it over with." Brain and Howie looked at each other with wide eyes, then shook their heads.
"Nah... it'd never work..." The guys shook their heads again and gave up for the night.
Harry tossed and turned. After one dream, she bolted upright. When her eyes adjusted to the dark, a street light perfectly illuminated a picture of AJ hanging on the wall.
'God girl... Get him out of your head...' Harry wasn't one to believe in love at first sight -- well, except for Harrison Ford. "Maybe some TV'll work..." she murmured. She got out of bed and went into the living room. As she flipped it on, she caught the beginning of 'I Want It That way' on Zoog Disney.
"Figures…"
**The next day**
Carrie seemed to have forgotten about the excitement from the previous night -- she was in the zone. The girls were going to the trendy Junior stores after breakfast to find the 'perfect' outfits.
The photo shoot ended just after 10 a.m. and the guys decided to work up an appetite and get some rehearsal in before lunch. Brian and Howie 'synchronized their watches' as they began dancing. AJ decided he wanted to change a few moves, toning up his act from recent. He'd been a little less X-rated with his moves since the breakup, and it was affecting the crowds.
Liza had been virtually crushed when she heard the news of the breakup. You'd think she'd be happy since she LOVED AJ McLean.
**3:30 p.m.**
"Hey guys, I'll be back in a few," Brain said heading offstage.
"Where's he goin'?" AJ asked watching him walk away. Howie looked over and back.
"Probably gonna call Leighanne," and walked away also. AJ shrugged and walked offstage himself.
Brian was a few steps from Harry's front steps. There was an older lady just getting to the door with a set of packages. He took the steps two at a time.
"Here, let me get that for you, ma'am." He held the door for her.
"Why thank you young man." He smiled and then followed her in, going upstairs while she went straight. He stopped at Harry's front door and knocked a few times.
Harry's mom opened the door and instead of saying anything, simply gave him a lookover.
"Can I help you?"
"Yes... I'm looking for Harriette." Mom nodded,
"She's in her room. This way." She waved him in and as they walked down the hall, she asked,
"So, you must be one of her dinner friends?"
"Yes ma'am. My name is Brian." She smiled and knocked on the girl's door.
"Yeah?" came a voice from inside. Monkees music could be heard through the door.
"Harriette, you have a visitor." The music stopped and something banged.
"Man!" Brian and Mom heard. The door swung open and Harry looked up from whatever made the noise and up at Brian, who was smiling. "Oh... hey..." She rubbed her shin, obviously she had run into something.
"Well," Mom said, "I'll leave you two to talk." She nodded and went toward the kitchen. Harry's eyes followed her mother and then turned back to Brian.
"Come on in... I guess..." Brian looked down at her leg and stepped in.
"You okay?"
"Yeah..." Harry murmured. Brain looked up to see a virtual BSB museum.
"Wow!"
"Well, that's my sister for ya."
"You weren't kidding last night." He moved toward the posters and looked at one, laughing.
"So, what can I do for ya? I believe you have a rehearsal or something you should be at..." Brian nodded and pulled her desk chair out. Sitting, he asked,
"Well, I came by to see if you were still coming tonight."
"I... I don't know Brian... I mean... I just..." Brian stood up. Harry was picking up a stack of papers from the floor.
"Would you consider the preshow?" She set the stack on the bed and looked at him.
"Preshow?" She started picking up a few books.
"Yeah... well, it's between rehearsals and the actual show. We get dinner, play some ball, watch some TV... chill. No concert you have to go to or anything... unless you decide to stay," he added with a sly grin and a wink. Harry looked at the ceiling, smiled and looked back at him.
"Okay," Brain jumped up and she poked him. "But! If you even think…of dragging me to that concert... or embarrassing me..." He straightened and held up his right hand.
"I swear." Harry shook her head and Brian noticed the CD/cassette collection between the desk and the door. "Jeez... you weren't kidding when you said you liked musicals... How many ya got here?" he asked as he pulled a CD out and looked at the back.
"Willy Wonka, huh..." Harry only smiled as she stood by the door. Brain put the CD away and took a last look at the 'shrine.'
"You heard from your sister yet?"
"No, and that scares me... especially if she saw me with you guys and she wasn't invited." Brian laughed as they moved into the hallway. When the neared the front door, Mom looked at them through the kitchen.
"Going out?"
"Yeah, ma…I'll be back in a while." Brian smiled and waved slightly.
"I'll have her back before Letterman." Mom only nodded while giving Harry the 'eye.' They left the apartment.
Down on the street, Harry looked around.
"So, you found your way back."
"Well, I got a cab to Sanford's and walked back here."
"Ahh…" Harry pointed left.
"It'll be easier to get a cab down here... main road." Brian shook his head and started down the street next to her.
**Back at Patty's**
The girls had returned from their little shopping spree and were watching one of the home videos to get in the mood.
**4:45 -- Three hours and 15 minutes to showtime**
Brian and Harry arrived at the venue and went on stage.
"So this is what it feels like..." she said looking out at the ocean of chairs.
"Yeah," Brian said sitting down on a step. "but we don't see too much with the lights." Nick and Kevin came out on stage.
"Hey guys, we heard you finally showed." Brian hopped up and gave Nick a high-five.
"Where's How?" he asked his cousin.
"Don't know. Probably ironing his outfit for tonight." Kevin looked at Harry. "Have you eaten?" She only shook her head. "Well come on," he held his hand out, "it's chow time." Harry, unsure of where he would take her, took his hand and they were followed backstage and outside by Frick and Frack. A BBQ had been set up for dinner, complete with chips, soda and a tray of brownies. Brian and Nick went straight to the grill. As she got closer, Harry asked,
"How do you eat this and not lose it on stage?"
"Easy... we let it settle," Brian said.
"Course, sometimes we don't," Kevin remarked, looking at his cousin.
"Hey! As long as it's cooked right and we don't overdo it... All is good," Nick said with a flourish of his free hand. Howie stepped up behind the guys.
"Hey, Harriette, pleasure to see you." She only smiled. Nick looked over Brian, Harry and Kevin and asked,
"Where's AJ? He's usually first in line..."
"I think his mom called. He'll be here." Kevin said something to Harry and she nodded. Howie looked at her, then met Brain's gaze. He only shrugged. As they sat down at one of the picnic tables, AJ appeared. He noticed Harry and as he got a burger off the grill, he called out,
"So, our closet case is comin' out?"
"Nah, she's just here for the food," Howie said.
"And the company, of course," she added between sips of her drink. AJ sat next to her and ate a few chips.
"So, you caved for the show?"
"Naw, I actually was dragged here by crazed ninjas and forced to see how the other half lives." She added a fake smile and ate a pickle.
"Ahhh... likin' it so far?"
"Of course." The guys watched the interaction like spectators at a golf match -- they didn't even eat. When AJ and Harry looked over to them, the four quickly recovered by digging into their plates.
"Well, glad to have you," AJ stated, still watching Brian and Howie. He knew that they were up to no good.
"Thanks," Harry replied quietly. A few minutes later, one of the crew came over.
"Okay, so who wants to test the new mike?"
"New mike?" AJ asked.
"Yeah…we had to replace someone's mike," everyone looked at Nick, "after someone pulled that little stunt with the water." Nick sank down in his seat.
"I'll do it," Harry piped up. Everyone looked at her. "Well, how hard can it be?" Everyone looked at each other and shrugged. As the group made their way on stage, Harry stopped the sound guy and asked him,
"You have the CD handy?"
"Yeah, we use it for rehearsal... Why?"
"Put it in on 16... I'm gonna mess with 'em." She smiled and the sound guy laughed. Harry went on stage and couldn't find the guys, then she saw AJ against the back wall sitting down. Kevin was up to her right in the nosebleeds, Howie was across but closer to AJ. Brian and Nick were on the floor, with Nick up near the front.
"What is this?" she asked.
"Gotta see if we can hear ya!" AJ yelled at the top of his lungs. Harry only stuck her tongue out. She looked back towards the sound guy and waved. He hit a button and the start to 'If You Want It To Be Good Girl" started.
"Ready?" she yelled over the first line.
"Neer neerneer neerneerneerneerneerneer HUH!" She looked out at the guys and gave them a 'so?' look. Kevin was on his way down when the music started, Howie soon started down too. Brian came running from the back screaming. AJ slowly stood up, shaking his head, and sauntered down the steps to the floor.
Brain climbed up on stage, followed by Nick, and they joined in with their normal parts. Kevin stood behind Harry and started to point at each of the guys during the different descriptions. When Brian sang "the one who's got it goin' on," Kevin and Harry pointed to him and nodded. AJ finally made it onstage and just shook his head in Harry's direction. She shrugged and kept dancing. AJ waved to the sound guy to cut the music, and when he did, Harry looked at him.
"Hey... nobody said there were any rules..." AJ just gave her a 'look,' much like the one her mother had given her.
"Dude, you think it's gonna be a full house tonight?" Nick asked a minute later. Harry snorted.
"What?" Nick asked innocently.
"Sorry... but if that wasn't a dumb question..."
"You think it's packed?" Harry gave him a 'well, duh' look.
"Yeah... You mean they don't tell you if the show's sold out or not?!"
"Well, they do," Howie said, "but he doesn't listen," and patted Nick's shoulder.
"Well, I'll tell ya... beware second row left center."
"Ah... sister?" Harry nodded.
"Well, be more worried about the two girls with her. The blonde especially."
"She a tad obsessed is she?" AJ asked.
"Just a tad. She wore black for a week when she found out you were taken." Howie and Nick's eyes bugged. No one had really mentioned the breakup around AJ, but AJ was unfazed. Brian nudged Howie and pointed to AJ, who was staring at Harriette again.
"Wow," was all AJ could say. After some silence, Brian asked,
"What does your sister look like? So we can keep an eye out for her." He did a little 007 move.
"Well, nothing like me, which is odd since she's my twin." Kevin gave an 'impressive' look.
"Twins that don't look alike…that's fraternal?" AJ asked.
"No, Siamese..." Nick said with a snicker.
"Actually, it is fraternal." Everybody nodded.
"Cool..." AJ said looking at his wrist. "Kev, what time you got?" Kevin looked at his watch and said,
"6:16. About an hour and a half to go."
"Well, I guess I should get going…"
"Uh uh... you said you'd stay until the concert. That's 7:59 and 59 seconds," Brian said standing up.
"Oh? And what are you planning to do until then?"
"Well, there's getting dressed," Howie said.
"Ooooh..."
"And there's Nintendo…" Nick murmured.
"Real or that 64 crap?"
"You mean Super?"
"No, real. Number one. Contra... Rampage... Goonies II..." Nick was amazed.
"Sorry sister... he's got a 64," Kevin stated. Harry waved him off.
"What else ya got?" Brain scooted up beside her.
"Our company." She didn't even flinch.
"What else?" AJ could only laugh. He stepped away.
"If you'll excuse me, I gotta make a pit stop." He bowed and headed off stage. Howie and Brian squished her.
"So?"
"So what?"
"You guys are awful chummy," Brian noticed.
"Get real! We're nothing alike."
"But that's what makes the best couples." Harry wanted to hear this.
"Oh yeah?" Brian nodded. "Name one." He looked at Howie, smiled and looked at her.
"Kermit and Miss Piggy."
"How?!" Howie looked at Brian.
"They got married." Howie nodded with Brian's words.
"In a play!"
"It was true love, meant to be." Howie looked at her and nodded.
"She drove him nuts!"
"Whatever," Brian waved her off and said instead, "Up for a game of ball?"
"Now?"
"No, tomorrow at five. Yes now!" Harry shrugged.
"Okay, but don't blame me when you get tired after the first song."
"Naw, he blames Fatima for that," Howie interjected. Brian went in search of a ball.
At 7:15 p.m., the guys decided to get into wardrobe. Harry knocked and Howie opened the door a crack. He peeked out.
"Hey, just wanted to let you know that... uh... I'm headin' out." Harry pointed to the back door.
"You sure you don't wanna stay for the show?" Howie asked. She guessed he must have been pulling pants on.
"Yeah, I'm sure. Listen, it was great meeting you guys and I had a lot of fun…"
"Well, it was nice to meet you too."
"I'll uh... let you get back to whatever." Harry started to back away. "Good luck tonight." Howie smiled and replied,
"Thanks. Next time I'm up here missy... I'm huntin' you down for a rematch. That was unfair tonight!" he laughed. Harry smiled.
"I'm countin' on it." She waved and turned away. As she stepped away, she heard a deep voice come from the dressing room say,
"Hey, wait up!" She turned to find AJ making his way over, hooking his mike up along the way. "Hey... listen, um..." he put his hands on his hips. "Well, thanks."
"For?"
"For the last two days. It was kind of nice to be treated like a normal, everyday Joe for once."
"I know what you mean. No problem... besides, it was fun." AJ tried to hide a smile. They looked at each other for a few seconds, then both started at once.
"No, you go first," AJ offered.
"Okay... um... well, I wanted to say that..." she just couldn't get the right words out, so she improvised, "I'm glad to say that I kicked your ass at basketball." She finished with a nervous laugh.
"Well, I'd rather be kicked by you than by one of those guys... Listen, do you bowl?"
"Hell yes. As often as possible."
"Well, um, the next time we're in town... you wanna... maybe... go bowlin'?" He was shy. How sweet.
"Absolutely," Harry said with a shy smile. AJ nodded in appreciation. Neither of them noticed Kevin, Howie, Nick and Brian leaning out the dressing room door in a Three Stooges fashion. AJ sighed, straightened and stated,
"Sorry."
"For what?"
"For this." He held her face, pulled her close and kissed her. She was taken completely by surprise. Part of her wanted to push him away and most of her didn't want him to stop. He broke the kiss, but didn't move.
"I've been wanting to do that since the courts yesterday," he said quietly.
"Funny," Harry's eyes met his. "I've been wanting you to that since yesterday too."
"What about your sister?" AJ asked.
"I don't want her to kiss me." AJ laughed as Harry looked up at him. "Good luck tonight."
"Thanks." Harry pulled away from AJ's grasp and as she walked away, she glanced back and gave him a wave. He waved back and turned to the door, causing Kevin, Brian, Nick and Howie to dive back in as quickly as possible.
**Around 12:45 a.m.**
Carrie traipsed in and set her purse down on the bed. Harry was on her bed, writing something in a notebook.
"Well, you missed a wonderful show."
"Really?" Harry asked, not even looking up. Carrie took off her jacket and opened the closet.
"Yeah, it was amazing. AJ seemed to be back to his old self. Guess he finally got over the breakup." Harry froze for a second. 'Breakup? When did this happen?"
"Really," she said in an unfazed tone.
"Yeah, but I guess you wouldn't care... I mean, since you ate with them and all. How exactly did you pull that off? Bribery?" Harry put the pen down and looked up.
"Actually, Caroline, I was down at the court and they walked up. We spoke, they asked about a good place to eat. I told them Sanford's, they asked me to come along as a thank you. I thought, 'well, I guess I could be polite and accept.' Matter of fact, we talked about you most of the meal. And Patty and Liza of course..."
"Oh really?" Carrie asked in a cynical tone. Harry looked right at her.
"Really." Carrie thought for a moment and then sighed.
"Well, I'm bushed, so I'm gonna turn in." She picked up a framed photo of the guys and kissed it, as she did every a.m. and p.m., then climbed into bed. Harry put the notebook and pen on her nightstand and turned off her light. She could still feel the power from the kiss and stared into blackness.
As her eyes adjusted, she once again saw the picture of AJ illuminated by the street light and fell asleep with a smile on her face.
**A month or so later**
Harry was in the kitchen making cookies and Carrie was watching a new BSB tape. Mom was packing a box at the table and as she went to the hall closet, there was a knock at the door. She opened it to find AJ holding a large frame against him.
"Hi," he smiled. "Is Harriette in?" At the mention of her name, Harry came out of the kitchen.
"AJ?! What are you doing here?" At the mention of HIS name, Carrie came off the couch.
"Well, I knew I needed to bring you something, but I didn't know what. I couldn't get the Monkees, but I got you the next best thing..." He spun the picture around and Harry burst out laughing. AJ was in the center, dressed as himself, and surrounded by Brian, Kevin, Howie and Nick dressed like the Monkees, complete with Kevin in a green wool hat, pulling off a pose from one of the albums.
"Oh God..." was all harry could say. Mom looked at the photo and nodded in approval. Carrie was disgusted. AJ still stood in the hallway.
"I was also wondering if I might finish what we started before the concert?" From the smile on Harry's face, AJ stepped in, looked at Mom and stated, "Excuse me." He then wrapped his free arm around Harry and kissed her deeply. Carrie's eyes bugged and she screamed, then ran to the room the girl's shared and slammed the door. AJ followed her with his eyes and then looked at Harry.
"You REALLY like the Monkees over us?"
"Yes I do." AJ shrugged.
"Well... to each his own." Harry laughed and AJ kissed her again.
_______
I own the shirt. Seriously.
Sanfords is a restaraunt in Casper, Wyoming. At Christmas, they really do hang the tree from the ceiling.
...I think I'll stick to Tin Man
Author: Erin (erinm_4600)
Characters, Pairing: The Backstreet Boys and a handful of OCs
Rating: PG
Summary: There's one girl on the planet who doesn't swoon at the sight of AJ McLean. He'll have to do something about that.
Warning: I was young and didn't know any better. n_e_star: You asked for it. And, against my better judgement, I complied. This was written September 27, 2002. -One month away from being freaky o.O- Posting as-is for posterity.
Disclaimer: The Backstreet Boys belong to themselves. The OCs are mine.
"Loyd steps up to the line. This shot will make or break the game." Harry Loyd stood at the free-throw line in the basketball court. She took her stance and continued: "The crowd goes silent as Loyd prepares to take the shot." After a moment, the ball went up. "And it's..." The ball missed the backboard and hit the fence. "...Terrible!" Harriette Loyd went after the stray ball and made her way back to the line.
"How about a lay-up?" she asked a robin that had just landed nearby. "Okay," she stated as the bird flew away. She jumped up and down for a moment, then took a running start for the basket. As she let the ball go, it hit the backboard, circled the rim a few times, then flew out.
"Aww!" Harry fell to the ground and lay on the court for a moment. She soon got up and chased after the ball.
Brian Littrell, his cousin Kevin Richardson, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough and AJ McLean -- known to the world as the Backstreet Boys -- were walking down a New York City street, heading for the nearest basketball court. As they neared the complex of four courts, AJ pointed out to the guys that someone was out on a court.
"So?" Brian asked. "They are open courts."
"Yeah, but she's got the good one."
"The good one?" Howie asked. AJ pointed to each of the baskets and the fact that only four of the eight baskets had nets, two of which were on the occupied court.
"And there's no sun on that back court," he added smugly.
"Oh big whoop, Bone," Nick stated.
"Hey! Excuse me for looking out for your best interests."
"Oh yeah," Nick replied, "I'm interested in kicking a girl off a court because the sun won't be in my eyes." While they argued, Kevin watched the girl dunk three balls in a row.
"Ya know what," he said putting a hand on nick's shoulder, "let him try." Nick and Brian were shocked.
"What?" Nick yelled.
"You can't be serious, cuz." Kevin only nodded. AJ, with a pompous grin, headed over to the court.
"Kev..." Howie started. Kevin waved his hand.
"No one said he'd succeed." Brian, Howie and Nick looked at each other, smiled, and moved in for a closer listen.
Harry threw the ball and as it bounced off the backboard, AJ picked it up. As he walked towards her, Harry raised an eyebrow.
"Nice shootin'," AJ remarked, dribbling the ball.
"Thanks." AJ looked at the ball and then looked to the hoop, as if he was getting ready to take a shot. Just before he let the ball go, he looked at Harry.
"Do you mind?" Harry shook her head. AJ fixed his stance and shot the ball. It bounced off the backboard and right to Harry.
"Good try." AJ looked at the basket and then back to Harry.
"Eh, it was off..." Harry bounced the ball. "So... uh... I was wonderin'..." AJ fidgeted. "Well, ya see... my friends and I... well, we were up for a game and... uh..."
"And you want the court with two nets." AJ looked at her as if to say 'am I a pig?' Harry turned her head to look back at this guy's 'friends,' who could only give her dumb waves. As she looked back to AJ, she stated,
"Tell ya what. We'll shoot for it. You make it, I go. I make it... you play without a net." AJ pretended to think about it and waved the guys over.
"Deal, but I have a stipulation. I win, you let me buy you a Coke. You win, I still buy you a Coke." AJ put his hand out.
"Make it a Pepsi and you got a deal." Harry took his hand and they shook. AJ then took the ball and took a second to set up his shot. As he let go of the ball, he held up his hands in a field-goal fashion. The ball hit the rim and sank into the net.
"Thank you very much!" Harry gave him a golf clap, as did the guys, and an 'impressive' look. Nick grabbed the ball and returned to the group.
"Here," he said as he passed the ball to Harry.
"Thanks." She looked at the basket and got set up for the shot, but instead of shooting, she turned 90 degrees and faced AJ. "You sure about this?" AJ didn't even flinch.
"Absolutely." Harry shook her head and as she faced AJ, she tossed the ball in the direction of the basket. AJ laughed as everyone else watched the ball sail through the air and make the 'swoosh' sound at the ball missed the rim and sailed through the net. Harry raised her arms.
"Nothin' but net!" Kevin, Brian, Howie and Nick just laughed while AJ stood with a shocked look on his face.
"Nice shot," Brian stated. Harry watched AJ, who was obviously replaying the scene in his head, trying to figure out how she pulled that shot off. After a second, he looked at her and asked,
"You planned that, didn't you? You knew you'd beat my ass, huh?!" Harry answered,
"Yeah, but it was fun." She smiled and added, "No hard feelings, I hope." AJ didn't look very happy. Kevin, Brian, Howie and Nick snickered.
"Don't worry about him. He'll get over it," Kevin stated.
"Yeah... Stay-J..." Howie was trying to say through a chuckle. The guys couldn't hold their laughter anymore. Nick nudged Brian.
"Screw Frick and Frack! I like Bitin' and Lick..." Brian laughed again and AJ could only give them the Spock eyebrow, He moved around Harry to see what the fuss was about. Harry was wearing a Big Dog parody T-shirt, featuring the 'Barkstreet Boys.' It was a takeoff of the first album cover with each of the guys looking like St. Bernards. There was Lick/Nick, Bitin'/Brian, Bowwowie D./Howie D., Stay J./AJ and Fetchin'/Kevin. AJ gave Harry a look and simply said,
"Cute." Harry gave him a smile and turned to the guys. She picked one of the basketballs up from the ground and said,
"It's getting late. Enjoy the court." Brian stuck his hand out.
"You don't have to leave on account of us. I'm Brian." She took his hand.
"Harry, and I've got stuff at home that needs to be done."
"Harry?" AJ asked rudely. Harry shot him a look.
"Yeah... short for Harriette, which I don't prefer." She emphasized the 'don't' and AJ backed off a little. Howie stepped in.
"Ignore him. He's having a bad hat day. I'm Howie. This is Nick," he said while shaking her hand and pointing to the youngest Backstreet Boy.
"And I'm Kevin," Kev stated. He nodded towards AJ. "And Mr. Polite there is AJ." Harry shook Kevin's hand.
"Pleased to meet all of you." As she glanced at her watch, Harry backed up and added, "Well, gotta run. Don't have too much fun." She smiled and turned away, missing AJ's dirty look. As she got closer to the street, Brian looked at the ball on the ground and yelled after her.
"Harry! Wait up!" He ran towards her and had four sets of eyes on him.
"Yeah?" Harry asked as he got closer. He held up the ball and they said together,
"Wrong ball." They switched with a laugh and Brian asked,
"Do you know of any good restaurants in this area? We were hoping for something OTHER than Mickey Dee's for once." Harry looked up as if to help her thought process.
"Well, Bottocelli's is down the street a bit... it's Italian... but you strike me as the Sanford's type," she concluded with a smile. Brian smiled back.
"Where would we find this place?"
"Oh, well... you go down this street here..." she pointed behind her, "...and it's about four blocks down that way on the right." Brian nodded and then looked back at the guys, who seemed to be getting impatient. He grinned, turned back to harry, and added,
"Would you join us?"
"The band?" Brian blinked.
"Uh... no... I meant for dinner. If you're not too busy..."
"No... I'd love too... but I'm flat broke and I don't think that AJ is very fond of me..." Brian raised a hand.
"My treat, as a way of saying thank you for what you pulled off on him. That was great." Harry shifted.
"Oh, I don't know..."
"I promise we don't bite." Harry smiled.
"Tell you what. I'll go along in case you change your mind." Brian laughed.
"Okay, should we meet you or pick you up?"
"Let's meet here... say... 7:15?"
"Deal." They shook hands again and Brain started toward the guys. "Ooh!" He turned back to Harry. "What's the dress code."
"I would guess that as long as you're wearing something, you're in."
"Nifty. See ya at 7:15 then." Harry nodded and turned away.
As Brian neared the other four Backstreet Boys, Nick asked,
"So, dude... you get all her vitals or what?" Brian shot the ball, sinking it.
"Actually, I was asking about a good eating place."
"Anything?" Kevin asked.
"Yeah, a place called Sanford's. She's meeting us here at 7:15 to lead the way." AJ whined,
"You invited her?!"
"Yes, I did. I was being polite, which is more than I can say for you, Bone."
"You gotta admit, AJ, that was a good shot," Howie added.
"Maybe she'll teach it to ya," Kevin stated.
"She was cute. Not my type," Nick said, "but cute."
'Yeah, a real spitfire,' AJ thought. 'No! Don't even go there AJ! Don't set yourself up for more heartache.' AJ's love life was next to nothing recently and he didn't see that point in even trying to start a new relationship. That thing with the Innosense gal didn't work out. 'She's not even my type,' he thought. Brian tapped him and tossed the ball towards the hoop. AJ shook his head and was soon lost in the game.
Harry pushed open the door to the apartment and tossed her keys onto the kitchen counter.
"Harriette? Is that you?" came a voice from in the kitchen. Harry rolled her eyes as she replied,
"Yeah, ma. Whadda ya need?" Harry's mom poked her head out into the entryway.
"Just wanted to make sure you were home. I have a meeting tonight and I could be gone a while, so you and your sister are on your own." Harry nodded. "You can have Mac and Cheese or soup or one of those microwaveable pizzas..." The phone rang while she mumbled on. "Hello? Yeah, I guess... Are you sure it's okay? Yeah... Okay, see you tomorrow... Bye." She hung up. "That was Caroline. She's staying at Patricia's tonight and then they are spending all day to get ready for the concert. Guess you'll have to fend for yourself." She started stacking papers on the dining room table.
"Mom?"
"What dear?"
"Mom, I got invited to Sanford's. Can I go?"
"Who invited you?" mom asked, still sorting papers.
"Some friends." Mom looked out of the corner of her eye.
"Do I know these friends?"
"No... but they're nice. It's not like they're gonna jump me in the park or anything. Besides, it's just down the street. Please?" Mom sighed.
"I guess so... you don't socialize much anyway. But only to Sanford's. No wild parties. Got it?" Harry nodded. "Okay, I've got to get going or I'll never make it." Harry shook her head and went to her room, which she shared with her twin sister, Carrie. One side of the room was plastered with BSB posters and pictures and normal teenage girl stuff.
The other was very sedate and had a large Monkees poster over the bed, along with some smaller ones on the wall as well; Muppets on the bed, computer crap all over the desk and a bookcase full of Star Wars and Star Trek books.
Harry sat down on her bed and picked up the stuffed Cookie Monster and stared at the huge, almost life-size poster of the Backstreet Boys hanging on the wall over Carrie's bed.
Carrie was what you'd call an obsessed fan. She and her best friends - Patty and Liza - had gone to Wal*Mart the day they got their BSB tickets and bought new underwear and Sharpies. They thought it would be a brilliant idea to write their names and addresses on the undies and toss them to the boys or better yet, get into the meet-n-greet and hand them over. Go figure that Harry was having dinner with them! 'Can't wait to tell Carrie,' she thought.
The sisters really weren't all that alike. In fact, they were NOTHING alike -- and they really couldn't stand each other. Carrie was the popular, trendy one, while Harry was a loner and considered 'just one of the guys' at school. While Carrie was at the mall more than at home or school, Harry was happy in a pair of baggy jeans and a T-shirt. Carrie went to the prom, Harry went to the movies. Carrie had a second row seat to the BSB concert, while Harry was planning on watching the "Adventures in Wonderland" marathon on Disney. Harry looked at her watch -- 4:45 p.m.
**Over at Patty's**
"Let's go out for dinner."
"Naw, let's just watch the Homecoming concert again and get pizza."
"I wonder if they are in town yet... Wouldn't it be cool if we ate at the same restaurant?"
"Too many places that they could be."
**6:30 p.m.**
"We should get going if we're gonna meet her at 7:15," Howie states looking at his watch.
"Yeah…" Brain added. "Any day, bone!"
"Get real, Bri! Talk to Grandpa about slow!" Kevin looked up.
"Hey!"
By 6:45, the boys were leaving the hotel for the basketball courts. They arrived at the court by 7 and were just standing around with their hands in their pockets when Harry came around the corner. She noticed that they were in an "I Want It That Way"-type ensemble and she was glad she'd dressed up. As she walked up to Brian, she asked,
"You guys hungry or what?" Brian and Nick grinned and Kevin and Howie -- who were playing paper, Rock, Scissors -- looked up. AJ looked at her and was awestruck. Harry -- who never had gotten all decked out for anyone -- had added some curl to her otherwise straight blonde hair, and was wearing black jeans and an antique blue, short sleeved silk shirt, and a black jacket.
The guys got situated and Brian and Kevin each offered her an arm. Nick and Howie offered each other a arm and followed. AJ gave them all the dirtiest look and tagged along.
As they entered Sanford's, a blue sports car drove by with at least two gaping passengers. The place was decorated to look like a sports equipment junkyard. There were pennants on the ceiling, old baseball photos and hockey sticks on the walls. The tables looked like Metal shop projects and the plates looked like hubcaps. Harry could tell that Brain and Nick were in heaven.
"Ya know," she stated, pointing up, "at Christmas, they decorate a tree and hang it from the ceiling." Nick, AJ and Howie looked up at the ceiling, which had to be at least 12 feet off the floor. After they were seated and handed menus, Kevin asked,
"So, what's good here?" He added a smile.
"Well, I usually have the Chicken Caesar, but the chicken strips are good…the burgers are okay. Stay clear of the onion rings though." Kevin and Howie laughed.
**Back at Patty's**
"You'll never guess who we passed on the way over here!"
"NO!"
"Yes! They were going into Sanford's!"
"Oh my God! We have to try and see them! Let's go!"
**Back at Sanford's**
By 8, the lines had grown and it was harder to seat people. By the time Carrie, Patty and Liza had arrived, there was a 40 minute wait.
"We just wanna see the Backstreet Boys…We don't need a table!" Patty whined. The doorman held up his hands.
"Sorry ladies. It's already too busy in there." Carrie was about to say something when her face dropped. She grabbed Patty's arm and said,
"Tell me you don't see this..." Patty looked in and finally saw what Carrie was referring too. Harry was at a table listening to Howie tell an obviously funny story. Next to her were Brian and Nick. She didn't see AJ staring at Harry the whole time.
"Oh boy..." she murmured. Carrie looked at Patty.
"How did my sister -- Miss Anti-BSB -- get in to sit with them?! We're the fans! You let her in and not us?!" Their waitress was looking at the waiting list and overheard what Carrie said.
"Oh, she came in with them," She proceeded to walk away. Patty and Liza pulled Carrie away from the door quickly.
Harry glanced in AJ's direction a few times. How could she not? All she felt all through the meal was his eyes on her. When AJ got up to use the restroom, Nick asked,
"So, what kinds of music do you like? Aside from us, I mean…"
"Well, I don't really listen to you guys, except for when my sister has you blasting through the apartment."
"Oh... I thought... ya know... Well, you had the shirt..."
"Oh," Harry laughed, "I got that to piss her off." This made Brian and Kevin laugh. "I mean, I like your stuff, but it's not my first choice. No offense." AJ returned to the table.
"None taken," brain said with a smile. "But seriously, what do you listen to?"
"I'm quite partial to the Monkees." AJ choked on his Pepsi. Kevin patted him on the back and asked,
"Do you watch the show?"
"Oh yeah! My favorite was the haunted house..." Nick shook his head.
"Who are the Monkees?" From the looks he got, he stated, "Geez, if looks could kill…"
"You know," Kevin said, "...'Hey, hey we're the Monkees'..." Nick shook his head.
"Well, it was before your time." Howie mentioned.
"I also love musicals and um... country..." AJ asked,
"What's your favorite?"
"Pardon?"
"What's your favorite show?"
"Well, if it's the movie version, I'd have to say 'On The Town.' I love Gene Kelly. But for stage... well... either Forum or 1776." AJ nodded.
"Ah, well, I like Phantom myself." Harry held up a glass and smiled.
"To each his own." He nodded and they clinked glasses.
By 9, the waitress wanted to sit someone else at the table, but they had racked up quite a bill, so she let them stay. When she finally dropped off the check, she mentioned,
"By the way miss, a girl stopped by. Said she was your sister." Harry's eyes bugged.
By 9:30, Nick and Kevin were falling asleep, so the group decided to head out. The guys walked Harry to her apartment and Harry asked,
"Can you find your way back to the hotel?" Brian and Howie looked at each other, then AJ stated,
"I don't think these guys could find their way to the bathroom, let alone the courts." Harry nodded.
"Let me run upstairs real quick and I'll walk you back."
"But then we'll have to walk you back here. We can get a cab…" Kevin said concerned.
"No, it's cool. Besides…you won't find a cab around here until 6 when they are picking folks up for the day shift. She looked down the street and then back to the guys. "You wanna hang here or come up?" It'll just take me a sec..." Nick was wide awake.
"Could I use your facilities?"
"Sure. Free water, TV and pit stops, right this way." Harry opened the door and waved the group in. The Loyd apartment was on the upstairs, with most widows overlooking the street. When they got up, Kevin and Brain sat on the couch while Nick and Howie were shown the bathrooms -- one was off of Mom's room. AJ followed Harry into her room.
"Sorry about the mess... and that..." she motioned to the shrine on her sister's side of the room. As she dug through her nightstand drawer, AJ asked,
"So, you a big fan?" Harry didn't even look up.
"Not mine. My sister's the fan and I only listen to you guys when I can't turn mine up any more." She looked up at AJ and smiled. "I'm not really a fan." She pointed to the Monkees poster and went to the closet. AJ looked out the window.
"Nice fire escape." Harry walked over and stated,
"Yeah... It's good for getting out and away from my sister." AJ nodded and took one last look around. Something on the bookshelf separating the Star Trek and Star Wars books caught his eye, but he said nothing. The rest of the most popular group in the world were already gathered in the living room and they all left the apartment.
"11:30... what time do we have to be there tomorrow?" Brian asked tiredly.
"9... photo shoot for the paper," Kevin replied.
"Then sound check and dance rehearsal should take us to 4:45," Howie added. Brian hung his head. As they crossed the courts, AJ nudged Harry.
"So," he asked quietly, "what'd you think of the 'Everybody' video?"
"I wish it lasted longer. It's too much to be wrapped up in three and a half minutes." AJ gave her a sly grin.
"I thought you weren't a fan?" Harry gave him a look.
"Well, I'm not going to the concert!"
"What do you mean?" Nick asked, obviously hurt.
"Well, little missy here's not a fan," AJ said smugly. Before Brain and Nick could say anything, Harry put a hand up.
"Wait a minute! Yes, I listen to the music, some of it is quite good." Brain smiled. "But if you're looking for the girls who are first in line to buy tickets and buying every sticker and taping every appearance, well…you're looking for my sister and her friends." Howie came up beside her.
"You make them sound like bus chasers."
"If the shoe fits..." Kevin laughed and Nick stopped her.
"So, you're saying that you'd listen to our song if it came on the radio, but you wouldn't buy the tape?"
"Probably."
"Yeah, but you'll dump $20 for the All-Access video," AJ stated. Five sets of eyes locked on Harry.
"Hey, 'Everybody's' a classic. And I find that whole morphing thing very interesting!" Brian put his arms on her shoulders.
"Boys! We have a closet listener!" the guys cheered and AJ stared at Harry. As a matter of fact, he stared at her the rest of the way to the hotel. As Nick and Kevin went upstairs, Howie went to check messages and AJ tried to hail a cab. Brain watched AJ glancing back on and off and asked Harry,
"So, you wouldn't go to a concert?" Harry shook her head.
"Probably not." Brian stuffed his hands in his pockets and looked at the ground.
"Not even if you were invited?"
"Well," Harry crossed her arms, "Depends on who's doing the inviting." He laughed.
"What if I invited you?" Harry looked at him and smiled.
"Why, Mister Littrell... whatever would the others say?" she asked in a fake Southern accent. He chuckled and continued,
"So?"
"So what?" Harry's eyes were fixed on AJ, who'd waved down a cab.
"Will you come tomorrow? As our friend, of course." Harry stepped away and turned to him.
"I'll think about it. See ya 'round, Kentucky boy." She smiled and turned toward AJ and the cab. As she approached, AJ opened the door for her. She smiled and stated,
"Why thank you, kind sir. It was fun."
"Yeah," AJ replied with a dull look. "We'll have to do it again sometime..." They looked at each other for a moment.
"Well..." Harry stated.
"Well..." AJ copied with a shrug. Harry stuck her hand out.
"Thanks for dinner and the walk."
"No problem," AJ replied as he shook her hand. Harry sighed.
"Would... would it be completely improper of me to give you a... a hug?" AJ looked surprised.
"A hug?"
"Yeah..." He could only shrug. He outstretched his arms and Harry gave him a quick hug. "Thanks again and sorry for this afternoon. No hard feelings?" She looked hopeful. AJ shook his hand around and grinned.
"Naw. It was all good, clean fun."
"Cool." She smiled again and gave him a peck on the cheek. When she realized what she'd done, she turned bright red and as she searched for the right words, all she could come up with was,
"Sorry." She ducked into the cab and AJ pushed the door shut. As the cab pulled away, AJ and Brain waved and AJ's hand went to his cheek. A large grin swept across his face, but he quickly erased it before heading to Brian's side.
"Well, that was a night to remember."
"It was fun... ya know... just hangin' out."
"Yeah..." AJ watched the cab turn the corner.
"Good company."
"Uh huh." AJ was gone.
"She's cute."
"Yeah... what?" He snapped back, unsure of what Brian had just said.
"Nothin'... Let's get some sleep." He turned to go in, while AJ stood on the steps thinking about the kiss. 'No, AJ, don't go there. You don't need a relationship. Hell, she's not even your type.'
Upstairs, AJ walked in on Nick and Howie gossiping about Harry and him.
"Whatever, guys. She's not my type. We wouldn't get along after five minutes." Kevin raised an eyebrow.
"Sure, Bone. Whatever you say..." AJ huffed and went into the bathroom.
Harry handed the cabbie $8 and got out. As she made her way upstairs, she not only decided that she might have to buy the new CD, but she prayed that her sister wasn't waiting for her.
**Around 11:45 p.m.**
Brian and Howie were up whispering.
"I asked her, she wouldn't say..."
"Well, AJ's sure acting differently... It's about time though. I don't know how much more of his moping I could take."
"Yeah..." They grew silent when someone shifted. "You know," Brian continued, "when they find out we're setting them up..."
"They'll get over it. They're perfect for each other."
"I don't know... I think Harry could take me..."
"Whatever."
"Ya know... I think that's the first time I've had dinner with a normal person…"
"What?" Nick's voice made them jump. "I'm normal."
"And your point is?" Howie asked smiling, and still whispering.
"Shut up," Brian stated.
"What are we talking about?" Nick asked quietly.
"Don't you pay attention," came a voice in the direction of Kevin. He sat up and ran a hand through his hair. "They're talking about setting AJ up with Harriette. Duh." Brian glared at his cousin.
"Well…at least we're discussing it." Kevin leaned back on one arm.
"Cuz, I'm almost 30 and I spend my days dancing around on stage for 12- and 13-year olds. I can't worry about Bone's love life. I need sleep."
"Whatever, Gramps," Howie said waving him off. AJ stirred, causing everyone to freeze. When he settled, Brain stated,
"Listen... I'll go down after lunch and get her to go." Kevin lay back down.
"Hell, just lock 'em in a broom closet and get it over with." Brain and Howie looked at each other with wide eyes, then shook their heads.
"Nah... it'd never work..." The guys shook their heads again and gave up for the night.
Harry tossed and turned. After one dream, she bolted upright. When her eyes adjusted to the dark, a street light perfectly illuminated a picture of AJ hanging on the wall.
'God girl... Get him out of your head...' Harry wasn't one to believe in love at first sight -- well, except for Harrison Ford. "Maybe some TV'll work..." she murmured. She got out of bed and went into the living room. As she flipped it on, she caught the beginning of 'I Want It That way' on Zoog Disney.
"Figures…"
**The next day**
Carrie seemed to have forgotten about the excitement from the previous night -- she was in the zone. The girls were going to the trendy Junior stores after breakfast to find the 'perfect' outfits.
The photo shoot ended just after 10 a.m. and the guys decided to work up an appetite and get some rehearsal in before lunch. Brian and Howie 'synchronized their watches' as they began dancing. AJ decided he wanted to change a few moves, toning up his act from recent. He'd been a little less X-rated with his moves since the breakup, and it was affecting the crowds.
Liza had been virtually crushed when she heard the news of the breakup. You'd think she'd be happy since she LOVED AJ McLean.
**3:30 p.m.**
"Hey guys, I'll be back in a few," Brain said heading offstage.
"Where's he goin'?" AJ asked watching him walk away. Howie looked over and back.
"Probably gonna call Leighanne," and walked away also. AJ shrugged and walked offstage himself.
Brian was a few steps from Harry's front steps. There was an older lady just getting to the door with a set of packages. He took the steps two at a time.
"Here, let me get that for you, ma'am." He held the door for her.
"Why thank you young man." He smiled and then followed her in, going upstairs while she went straight. He stopped at Harry's front door and knocked a few times.
Harry's mom opened the door and instead of saying anything, simply gave him a lookover.
"Can I help you?"
"Yes... I'm looking for Harriette." Mom nodded,
"She's in her room. This way." She waved him in and as they walked down the hall, she asked,
"So, you must be one of her dinner friends?"
"Yes ma'am. My name is Brian." She smiled and knocked on the girl's door.
"Yeah?" came a voice from inside. Monkees music could be heard through the door.
"Harriette, you have a visitor." The music stopped and something banged.
"Man!" Brian and Mom heard. The door swung open and Harry looked up from whatever made the noise and up at Brian, who was smiling. "Oh... hey..." She rubbed her shin, obviously she had run into something.
"Well," Mom said, "I'll leave you two to talk." She nodded and went toward the kitchen. Harry's eyes followed her mother and then turned back to Brian.
"Come on in... I guess..." Brian looked down at her leg and stepped in.
"You okay?"
"Yeah..." Harry murmured. Brain looked up to see a virtual BSB museum.
"Wow!"
"Well, that's my sister for ya."
"You weren't kidding last night." He moved toward the posters and looked at one, laughing.
"So, what can I do for ya? I believe you have a rehearsal or something you should be at..." Brian nodded and pulled her desk chair out. Sitting, he asked,
"Well, I came by to see if you were still coming tonight."
"I... I don't know Brian... I mean... I just..." Brian stood up. Harry was picking up a stack of papers from the floor.
"Would you consider the preshow?" She set the stack on the bed and looked at him.
"Preshow?" She started picking up a few books.
"Yeah... well, it's between rehearsals and the actual show. We get dinner, play some ball, watch some TV... chill. No concert you have to go to or anything... unless you decide to stay," he added with a sly grin and a wink. Harry looked at the ceiling, smiled and looked back at him.
"Okay," Brain jumped up and she poked him. "But! If you even think…of dragging me to that concert... or embarrassing me..." He straightened and held up his right hand.
"I swear." Harry shook her head and Brian noticed the CD/cassette collection between the desk and the door. "Jeez... you weren't kidding when you said you liked musicals... How many ya got here?" he asked as he pulled a CD out and looked at the back.
"Willy Wonka, huh..." Harry only smiled as she stood by the door. Brain put the CD away and took a last look at the 'shrine.'
"You heard from your sister yet?"
"No, and that scares me... especially if she saw me with you guys and she wasn't invited." Brian laughed as they moved into the hallway. When the neared the front door, Mom looked at them through the kitchen.
"Going out?"
"Yeah, ma…I'll be back in a while." Brian smiled and waved slightly.
"I'll have her back before Letterman." Mom only nodded while giving Harry the 'eye.' They left the apartment.
Down on the street, Harry looked around.
"So, you found your way back."
"Well, I got a cab to Sanford's and walked back here."
"Ahh…" Harry pointed left.
"It'll be easier to get a cab down here... main road." Brian shook his head and started down the street next to her.
**Back at Patty's**
The girls had returned from their little shopping spree and were watching one of the home videos to get in the mood.
**4:45 -- Three hours and 15 minutes to showtime**
Brian and Harry arrived at the venue and went on stage.
"So this is what it feels like..." she said looking out at the ocean of chairs.
"Yeah," Brian said sitting down on a step. "but we don't see too much with the lights." Nick and Kevin came out on stage.
"Hey guys, we heard you finally showed." Brian hopped up and gave Nick a high-five.
"Where's How?" he asked his cousin.
"Don't know. Probably ironing his outfit for tonight." Kevin looked at Harry. "Have you eaten?" She only shook her head. "Well come on," he held his hand out, "it's chow time." Harry, unsure of where he would take her, took his hand and they were followed backstage and outside by Frick and Frack. A BBQ had been set up for dinner, complete with chips, soda and a tray of brownies. Brian and Nick went straight to the grill. As she got closer, Harry asked,
"How do you eat this and not lose it on stage?"
"Easy... we let it settle," Brian said.
"Course, sometimes we don't," Kevin remarked, looking at his cousin.
"Hey! As long as it's cooked right and we don't overdo it... All is good," Nick said with a flourish of his free hand. Howie stepped up behind the guys.
"Hey, Harriette, pleasure to see you." She only smiled. Nick looked over Brian, Harry and Kevin and asked,
"Where's AJ? He's usually first in line..."
"I think his mom called. He'll be here." Kevin said something to Harry and she nodded. Howie looked at her, then met Brain's gaze. He only shrugged. As they sat down at one of the picnic tables, AJ appeared. He noticed Harry and as he got a burger off the grill, he called out,
"So, our closet case is comin' out?"
"Nah, she's just here for the food," Howie said.
"And the company, of course," she added between sips of her drink. AJ sat next to her and ate a few chips.
"So, you caved for the show?"
"Naw, I actually was dragged here by crazed ninjas and forced to see how the other half lives." She added a fake smile and ate a pickle.
"Ahhh... likin' it so far?"
"Of course." The guys watched the interaction like spectators at a golf match -- they didn't even eat. When AJ and Harry looked over to them, the four quickly recovered by digging into their plates.
"Well, glad to have you," AJ stated, still watching Brian and Howie. He knew that they were up to no good.
"Thanks," Harry replied quietly. A few minutes later, one of the crew came over.
"Okay, so who wants to test the new mike?"
"New mike?" AJ asked.
"Yeah…we had to replace someone's mike," everyone looked at Nick, "after someone pulled that little stunt with the water." Nick sank down in his seat.
"I'll do it," Harry piped up. Everyone looked at her. "Well, how hard can it be?" Everyone looked at each other and shrugged. As the group made their way on stage, Harry stopped the sound guy and asked him,
"You have the CD handy?"
"Yeah, we use it for rehearsal... Why?"
"Put it in on 16... I'm gonna mess with 'em." She smiled and the sound guy laughed. Harry went on stage and couldn't find the guys, then she saw AJ against the back wall sitting down. Kevin was up to her right in the nosebleeds, Howie was across but closer to AJ. Brian and Nick were on the floor, with Nick up near the front.
"What is this?" she asked.
"Gotta see if we can hear ya!" AJ yelled at the top of his lungs. Harry only stuck her tongue out. She looked back towards the sound guy and waved. He hit a button and the start to 'If You Want It To Be Good Girl" started.
"Ready?" she yelled over the first line.
"Neer neerneer neerneerneerneerneerneer HUH!" She looked out at the guys and gave them a 'so?' look. Kevin was on his way down when the music started, Howie soon started down too. Brian came running from the back screaming. AJ slowly stood up, shaking his head, and sauntered down the steps to the floor.
Brain climbed up on stage, followed by Nick, and they joined in with their normal parts. Kevin stood behind Harry and started to point at each of the guys during the different descriptions. When Brian sang "the one who's got it goin' on," Kevin and Harry pointed to him and nodded. AJ finally made it onstage and just shook his head in Harry's direction. She shrugged and kept dancing. AJ waved to the sound guy to cut the music, and when he did, Harry looked at him.
"Hey... nobody said there were any rules..." AJ just gave her a 'look,' much like the one her mother had given her.
"Dude, you think it's gonna be a full house tonight?" Nick asked a minute later. Harry snorted.
"What?" Nick asked innocently.
"Sorry... but if that wasn't a dumb question..."
"You think it's packed?" Harry gave him a 'well, duh' look.
"Yeah... You mean they don't tell you if the show's sold out or not?!"
"Well, they do," Howie said, "but he doesn't listen," and patted Nick's shoulder.
"Well, I'll tell ya... beware second row left center."
"Ah... sister?" Harry nodded.
"Well, be more worried about the two girls with her. The blonde especially."
"She a tad obsessed is she?" AJ asked.
"Just a tad. She wore black for a week when she found out you were taken." Howie and Nick's eyes bugged. No one had really mentioned the breakup around AJ, but AJ was unfazed. Brian nudged Howie and pointed to AJ, who was staring at Harriette again.
"Wow," was all AJ could say. After some silence, Brian asked,
"What does your sister look like? So we can keep an eye out for her." He did a little 007 move.
"Well, nothing like me, which is odd since she's my twin." Kevin gave an 'impressive' look.
"Twins that don't look alike…that's fraternal?" AJ asked.
"No, Siamese..." Nick said with a snicker.
"Actually, it is fraternal." Everybody nodded.
"Cool..." AJ said looking at his wrist. "Kev, what time you got?" Kevin looked at his watch and said,
"6:16. About an hour and a half to go."
"Well, I guess I should get going…"
"Uh uh... you said you'd stay until the concert. That's 7:59 and 59 seconds," Brian said standing up.
"Oh? And what are you planning to do until then?"
"Well, there's getting dressed," Howie said.
"Ooooh..."
"And there's Nintendo…" Nick murmured.
"Real or that 64 crap?"
"You mean Super?"
"No, real. Number one. Contra... Rampage... Goonies II..." Nick was amazed.
"Sorry sister... he's got a 64," Kevin stated. Harry waved him off.
"What else ya got?" Brain scooted up beside her.
"Our company." She didn't even flinch.
"What else?" AJ could only laugh. He stepped away.
"If you'll excuse me, I gotta make a pit stop." He bowed and headed off stage. Howie and Brian squished her.
"So?"
"So what?"
"You guys are awful chummy," Brian noticed.
"Get real! We're nothing alike."
"But that's what makes the best couples." Harry wanted to hear this.
"Oh yeah?" Brian nodded. "Name one." He looked at Howie, smiled and looked at her.
"Kermit and Miss Piggy."
"How?!" Howie looked at Brian.
"They got married." Howie nodded with Brian's words.
"In a play!"
"It was true love, meant to be." Howie looked at her and nodded.
"She drove him nuts!"
"Whatever," Brian waved her off and said instead, "Up for a game of ball?"
"Now?"
"No, tomorrow at five. Yes now!" Harry shrugged.
"Okay, but don't blame me when you get tired after the first song."
"Naw, he blames Fatima for that," Howie interjected. Brian went in search of a ball.
At 7:15 p.m., the guys decided to get into wardrobe. Harry knocked and Howie opened the door a crack. He peeked out.
"Hey, just wanted to let you know that... uh... I'm headin' out." Harry pointed to the back door.
"You sure you don't wanna stay for the show?" Howie asked. She guessed he must have been pulling pants on.
"Yeah, I'm sure. Listen, it was great meeting you guys and I had a lot of fun…"
"Well, it was nice to meet you too."
"I'll uh... let you get back to whatever." Harry started to back away. "Good luck tonight." Howie smiled and replied,
"Thanks. Next time I'm up here missy... I'm huntin' you down for a rematch. That was unfair tonight!" he laughed. Harry smiled.
"I'm countin' on it." She waved and turned away. As she stepped away, she heard a deep voice come from the dressing room say,
"Hey, wait up!" She turned to find AJ making his way over, hooking his mike up along the way. "Hey... listen, um..." he put his hands on his hips. "Well, thanks."
"For?"
"For the last two days. It was kind of nice to be treated like a normal, everyday Joe for once."
"I know what you mean. No problem... besides, it was fun." AJ tried to hide a smile. They looked at each other for a few seconds, then both started at once.
"No, you go first," AJ offered.
"Okay... um... well, I wanted to say that..." she just couldn't get the right words out, so she improvised, "I'm glad to say that I kicked your ass at basketball." She finished with a nervous laugh.
"Well, I'd rather be kicked by you than by one of those guys... Listen, do you bowl?"
"Hell yes. As often as possible."
"Well, um, the next time we're in town... you wanna... maybe... go bowlin'?" He was shy. How sweet.
"Absolutely," Harry said with a shy smile. AJ nodded in appreciation. Neither of them noticed Kevin, Howie, Nick and Brian leaning out the dressing room door in a Three Stooges fashion. AJ sighed, straightened and stated,
"Sorry."
"For what?"
"For this." He held her face, pulled her close and kissed her. She was taken completely by surprise. Part of her wanted to push him away and most of her didn't want him to stop. He broke the kiss, but didn't move.
"I've been wanting to do that since the courts yesterday," he said quietly.
"Funny," Harry's eyes met his. "I've been wanting you to that since yesterday too."
"What about your sister?" AJ asked.
"I don't want her to kiss me." AJ laughed as Harry looked up at him. "Good luck tonight."
"Thanks." Harry pulled away from AJ's grasp and as she walked away, she glanced back and gave him a wave. He waved back and turned to the door, causing Kevin, Brian, Nick and Howie to dive back in as quickly as possible.
**Around 12:45 a.m.**
Carrie traipsed in and set her purse down on the bed. Harry was on her bed, writing something in a notebook.
"Well, you missed a wonderful show."
"Really?" Harry asked, not even looking up. Carrie took off her jacket and opened the closet.
"Yeah, it was amazing. AJ seemed to be back to his old self. Guess he finally got over the breakup." Harry froze for a second. 'Breakup? When did this happen?"
"Really," she said in an unfazed tone.
"Yeah, but I guess you wouldn't care... I mean, since you ate with them and all. How exactly did you pull that off? Bribery?" Harry put the pen down and looked up.
"Actually, Caroline, I was down at the court and they walked up. We spoke, they asked about a good place to eat. I told them Sanford's, they asked me to come along as a thank you. I thought, 'well, I guess I could be polite and accept.' Matter of fact, we talked about you most of the meal. And Patty and Liza of course..."
"Oh really?" Carrie asked in a cynical tone. Harry looked right at her.
"Really." Carrie thought for a moment and then sighed.
"Well, I'm bushed, so I'm gonna turn in." She picked up a framed photo of the guys and kissed it, as she did every a.m. and p.m., then climbed into bed. Harry put the notebook and pen on her nightstand and turned off her light. She could still feel the power from the kiss and stared into blackness.
As her eyes adjusted, she once again saw the picture of AJ illuminated by the street light and fell asleep with a smile on her face.
**A month or so later**
Harry was in the kitchen making cookies and Carrie was watching a new BSB tape. Mom was packing a box at the table and as she went to the hall closet, there was a knock at the door. She opened it to find AJ holding a large frame against him.
"Hi," he smiled. "Is Harriette in?" At the mention of her name, Harry came out of the kitchen.
"AJ?! What are you doing here?" At the mention of HIS name, Carrie came off the couch.
"Well, I knew I needed to bring you something, but I didn't know what. I couldn't get the Monkees, but I got you the next best thing..." He spun the picture around and Harry burst out laughing. AJ was in the center, dressed as himself, and surrounded by Brian, Kevin, Howie and Nick dressed like the Monkees, complete with Kevin in a green wool hat, pulling off a pose from one of the albums.
"Oh God..." was all harry could say. Mom looked at the photo and nodded in approval. Carrie was disgusted. AJ still stood in the hallway.
"I was also wondering if I might finish what we started before the concert?" From the smile on Harry's face, AJ stepped in, looked at Mom and stated, "Excuse me." He then wrapped his free arm around Harry and kissed her deeply. Carrie's eyes bugged and she screamed, then ran to the room the girl's shared and slammed the door. AJ followed her with his eyes and then looked at Harry.
"You REALLY like the Monkees over us?"
"Yes I do." AJ shrugged.
"Well... to each his own." Harry laughed and AJ kissed her again.
_______
I own the shirt. Seriously.
Sanfords is a restaraunt in Casper, Wyoming. At Christmas, they really do hang the tree from the ceiling.
...I think I'll stick to Tin Man