The next morning as JC packed up his room, he kept looking at his phone. He was sure Lori would call before he left and
demand to see Kyle again, or want to know where they would be staying in San Diego
but the phone didnt ring once.
Okay Kyle my man. You ready to
go? JC tossed Kyles backpack
over his shoulder and reached for the duffel bags.
Yeah. Kyle yawned.
Okay, hold onto the bag strap right there. JC nodded at the strap closest to his hand.
Me up?
No, I cant hold you right now Kyle. JC shook his head and adjusted the bags in his
hands. My hands are full.
No bag.
I cant leave the bags. JC
sighed but smiled at Kyles persistence. Just
hold onto the strap, maybe Chris or someone can carry you.
No hole.
Yep, you need to hold on.
Doe wan.
Hey. JC dropped the bags
and gave Kyle his stern fatherly look. I
know you dont want to but youve
gotta hold onto the bags. Well be on
the bus in five minutes.
No bus.
Yes bus. JC sighed and
picked up the bags again then headed for the door. Kyle
remained rooted to the floor. Lets move
it.
I say.
You want to stay here? JC
tried not to smile. Okay, Ill
pick you up in a couple months. He
stepped out in the hall, leaving Kyle in the room as the door began to swing shut. JC stopped the door with his foot as he heard Kyle
run toward the door.
No! Kyle shouted as he
ran into the hall. No go.
Yeah, weve gotta leave. You
know that.
I say.
You cant stay. JC
sighed.
And Jussin.
Justin isnt staying.
And Joey.
Joey isnt staying either. Were
all going to get on the bus right now.
Sink say.
No, Nsync isnt staying. JC
stood in the hallway and argued with Kyle as the others made their way to the elevators.
Jessi?
Jessica is already gone.
Jessi bus?
You cant ride on her bus, her bus is already gone. Shes already there.
I see?
Kyle
JC signed and dropped one of his duffel bags at his side. Im not playing around here buddy. Weve got to go. Grab onto the straps and He stopped himself as a wave of fear washed over
him. Hed lost Kyle once in a hotel
because he wasnt holding his hand, and right then there were people all over the
lobby wanting to snap a picture of him. Not
to mention Lori not wanting him to leave Los Angeles.
Shit
JC grumbled
under his breath. Okay, come
here. He picked Kyle up with one arm
and tried to carry both bags in one hand, throwing him completely off balance.
Can say?
No, youre going with me, but Im going to carry you.
I wak.
You cant walk, no.
I can.
I know you can walk, but right
now I need to carry you to the bus so you dont get lost.
Hole bag?
Nope. JC sighed and
dropped the bags by the elevator doors.
Need some help there C? Joey
asked.
Yeah, can you carry one of these?
JC asked.
You bet. Joey reached for
Kyle and tossed him in the air, Ill
take this one!
I meant one of the bags. JC
frowned.
The bags weigh more than the kid.
Joey laughed. Hey little dude. Whats up?
Hi Joey. Kyle laughed and
reached to touch Joeys earring.
Dont touch that, thats connected. Joey stopped Kyles hand and pretended to
chew on his fingers.
Yeah I cant imagine where he learned to bite. JC rolled his eyes and picked up the bags as they
stepped onto the elevator.
Hey Kyle? What do we think
about biting? Joey asked as he bounced
the little boy on his hip.
I fink no by.
No biting?
No, hurts.
Yep, it hurts. Joey
nodded. Hurts like hell. And what happens if you bite me again?
Hitin and you by.
Joey laughed, Yep, youll get a spanking and Ill bite you right
back.
No you wont. JC
shook his head and leaned against the far wall.
If he bites me again you bet your ass Ill bite him back. Two can play that game Mr. Man. Joey raised his eyebrow at JC. But we dont have to worry about that
because no ones gonna bite anyone right?
Only by eat.
Only bite what you eat, got it. Joey
nodded. High five my man, right
here. He held out his hand for Kyle to
slap and laughed as they all filed off the elevator.
Joey be careful. JC said
as he walked closely behind him.
I know how to walk.
Just keep his head down and go right to the bus. JC sighed and looked at the group of fans outside.
I can sign a few autographs with my free hand. Joey said as the security guards pushed the doors
open.
Then give him to me and take one of the bags. JC stopped and dropped the bags.
Chill out Jace. Joey shook
his head and tickled Kyles side as they walked toward the bus. JC smiled at the fans and helped two crew guys
load his bags into the underside of the bus, then adjusted his backpack and walked over to
Joey.
Hey, hows it going? JC
smiled for the fans and reached to take Kyle from him.
Time to go inside buddy.
Go bye? Kyle asked.
Yep.
And Joey?
Yep, Joey too. JC tapped
Joey on the shoulder and nodded toward the bus, Lets
get a move on it.
Mobe it. Kyle laughed and
the small crowd joined in.
Lets go. JCs
face broke out in a smile as he waved to the fans and hopped up onto the bus.
Joey say?
Were not going to leave without Joey.
We might if he doesnt get his ass up in here. Chris mumbled as he sat on the couch and swung his
legs out in front of him.
Lonnies on his case. Justin
laughed as he moved the curtain aside and saw the guard literally pulling Joey away from
the fans.
Okay, alright, keep your shirt on.
Joey laughed as he jumped onto the bus. Whats
the hold up? Lets go. He dropped himself into the recliner chair and
looked around at the other guys, Were
late you know. He leaned his head back
and closed his eyes with a smile on his face.
He seepin. Kyle sighed and
shook his head. Is nap?
Joey takes a lot of naps. Justin
nodded as he headed for the back of the bus. Come
on shorty, lets go play Land Before Time. Ive
still gotta kick your butt.
No I kick.
Yeah, you think so huh? Justin
laughed and took Kyles hand. Were
gonna go play. Call us for snacks. Justin smiled as he and Kyle disappeared
into the back of the bus.
They were made for each other. Lance
laughed and shook his head as he and JC climbed into their separate bunks to relax for the
duration of the short ride.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
When they arrived in Anaheim they were greeted by the usual mass of fans and a few
local reporters. As they stepped off the bus,
flashes went off left and right and the screams went up a notch. JC carried Kyle on his shoulder with the hood of
his sweatshirt up over his head to try to shield him as much as he could.
Oh my God! Justin!
Is Kyles mother with you?
Joey! Look over here!
Smile! Smile over here!
How do you feel about his mother being found?
Chris! Ahhhh! Oh my God!
Chris!
Wait, what did she say? JC
slowed down a second and gave Chris a look.
Something like aaahhh! Chris! Aaaaah!.
That? Or did you mean something
else? Chris laughed and continued
walking into the hotel.
About Kyle? JC frowned and
hopped up the two shallow steps with his security guard at his side.
I didnt hear anything. Chris
shrugged and ran ahead.
JC, now that his mother is back will we be able to meet her? The final question followed JC into the lobby and
took him completely by surprise.
Lance turned to see if JC had caught what the reporter said, Jace?
Yep. JC nodded, answering
Lances unasked question. Is Sean
here yet?
Hes in his room.
Wheres that? JC
asked, keeping his eyes on the elevators at the other end of the lobby.
I dont know. Lance
looked to the security guards that flanked them. We
need to go to Seans room.
You got it. Les nodded and
held the elevator door open. They rode up to
the twelfth floor where Lance headed to his room and JC went down to Seans room.
Can you take him for a few minutes?
JC asked as he looked at Kyle.
Just a few minutes? Les
asked as he took Kyle from him.
Yep. I just have to talk to
Sean for a second. JC nodded then
smiled at Kyle, Can you show Les your
new book?
Yeah. Kyle sighed and
smiled up at Les. See book?
Sure kid, Ill look at your book. Come
on over here. Les jerked his head
toward the end of the hall where a large window let the sun in.
JC watched them sit on the floor then knocked loudly on the door in front of him. Sean pulled the door open and before JC could say
anything Sean said, We need to
talk.
Yeah you could say that. JC
nodded as he stepped into the room and shut the door.
What the hell was that? He
dropped himself into the nearest chair and looked up at Sean.
She went to the press.
She what?! JC raised his
voice as he balled his hands into fists at his sides..
Well now we dont know it was her. An unnamed source has leaked to the
press that Kyles mother is back in the picture now, and theyre eating it
up. Sean said calmly.
Dammit. JC fell back in
his seat and pressed his hands over his eyes. What
else can she toss at me now? I swear, I feel
like Im just running in place here.
This isnt that bad Jace. Sean
shook his head. All things considered. You took it public that you were looking for her,
she took it public that she was found.
She wasnt found she
strutted right back in. JC sighed.
Same thing.
So hows this going to affect anything else?
Its not. You know the
media though. The fact that you had a child
out of wedlock and the mom was nowhere to be found was a big deal, now that the mom is
back theyre going to be looking at your reaction towards her.
Which means Ive gotta be professional about it. JC rolled his eyes.
Exactly. Sean nodded. No bad mouthing her, no saying that she
wont be able to see him
nothing like that.
I just have to say no comment over and over?
You can say what you want Jace, Im just saying that from a business
point of view you want to say as little as possible.
If anything ever comes of this, youre going to want to really watch what you
say.
Whats she said so far? JC
sighed and tugged at his lip.
She hasnt said anything. The
unnamed source has said that Kyles mother hopes to re-establish a
relationship with both you and her son.
Dream the fuck on. JC
laughed out loud. Wrong.
I think she just means that shed like to be on talking terms.
I dont care what she means. Ugh,
Sean really. I know that her life may have
been hard or crappy or whatever and Im sorry for that, but dude. She could have told me about Kyle to start with
and you know I would have helped both her and
the kid. Even if we didnt get married
or whatever Id have made sure they were taken care of. She wanted
to do this on her own man, that was her decision.
I know.
So when it got too hard she wanted to leave him with me, which I probably
could have handled if she came up to me and told me what she was doing and why and all
that but just dropping him in the lobby of the hotel?
I mean, thats messed up. I
wouldnt leave my dog with a stranger, let
alone a kid.
She knew who Chris was.
Yeah but she didnt know him. Its not like wed publicly announce
that Chris was a child abuser or anything. He
could be this drunk druggie who got off on hurting kids in his spare time but because our
PR team portrayed him as this clean cut nice guy she thought she knew him.
Chris is
No I know Chris isnt a child abuser.
Shit hes better with Kyle than I am. Im
just saying, she had no idea. Hell she had no
idea if I was a druggie or whatever. Thats just stupid.
Im not gonna sit here and argue with you about this Jace.
Because Im right. JC sighed.
Because its not worth the fight.
Sean raised his eyebrow. I just
wanted you to be aware that the media was sniffing around wondering who this illusive
mother is.
JC was silent for a minute, You
think I should work with her on this? Sean
didnt answer him, he just reached into his briefcase for his glasses, You think I should wipe her slate clean and
start from scratch? Arrange some kind of
joint custody thing? Bend over backwards to
accommodate her?
I think you need to work with her JC. Shes
going to be in your life from now on and it would be better if you didnt hate each
other.
I dont hate her. JC
wasnt going to convince anyone with that tone.
You know what I mean.
She didnt accommodate me for the first two years. JC pointed out.
She made a mistake.
So maybe this is a mistake. This
will be my mistake then. Shes had hers, let me have mine.
Two wrongs dont make a right.
No, but it might make me feel better.
JC uttered under his breath.
This isnt about you anymore
JC. Its about Kyle. Sean pointed out.
Hes the only one Im thinking about here. She cant handle him? Fine. I will.
JC stood up and opened the door of the tiny office.
Thanks for letting me know. Ill
be sure to keep my trap shut. He let
the door slam behind him as he stomped down the hall to collect Kyle.
JC thanked Les and took Kyle down to their new room,
Anano boo?
Hmm? JC asked
distractedly as he dropped Kyles bag on the bed.
Anano boo.
Ana what? JC gave
Kyle a look then fell across the bed so he was eye to eye with Kyle as he stood by the
door.
Boo. Kyle patted the
bedspread.
Oh blue? JC tilted his
head to the side and looked at the blue and beige room.
Yeah anano.
I dont know what you mean buddy.
Kay. Kyle sighed and laid
his head on the bed by JCs. We
sim?
We cant go swimming right now, no.
We need to go get some lunch then go to the venue.
You get to hang out with us there tonight, is that cool?
Cool. Kyle nodded.
Im sorry this sucks for you.
JC sighed and rested his chin in his hand. Just
wait till we get home, were going to have so much fun. Youre going to have your own room and a play
set thing in the backyard and all kinds of fun stuff.
Go sopin.
Yep, youll be able to go to shopping with me and everything. JC
smiled. Only a couple more days.
Kay. Kyle nodded as if he
understood.
Why dont I go get a bath started and you can take a bubble bath, how
does that sound? JC asked as he looked
at his watch. It was a little after ten in
the morning, they had a few hours to kill.
You too?
You want me in the bath too? I
dont think so. JC shook his head
as he pushed himself up from the bed.
Pay bubbles?
Ill play with the bubbles with you, you bet. JC nodded. But
Im not getting in there with you. He
laughed and went into the bathroom to start the water.
JC poured in more bubbles than necessary and plopped Kyle down in the middle of
them. They threw bubbles at each other and
made designs on the tub walls, then JC gave Kyle a big clown hair-do with bubbles. Youre a goof.
No you! Kyle laughed.
You should see yourself, youve got bubble hair out to here. JC laughed at the sight as he held his hands out
to show how big Kyles bubble hair was.
I see?
Sure, hang on. JC stood up
and carefully grabbed Kyle under his slippery shoulders.
He lifted him high enough to see his reflection in the mirror.
Is silly! Kyle laughed and
reached to touch his bubble hair. Boing!
Yeah. JC chuckled under
his breath. Your hair is going
boing.
An you?
My hair does not go boing. JC
smiled and shook his head as he sat Kyle back in the tub.
Yes. Kyle sighed. It boing.
Okay thats about enough fooling around. JC changed the subject, Weve gotta get ready to go, Ive
got a show to do. He used a big cup and
rinsed as many bubbles as he could off of Kyle then flipped the switch to let the tub
drain, Do you want to wear your Raiders
sweatshirt tonight? Or the one with the big
pocket?
Raids. Kyle yawned as JC
wrapped him in a towel and carried him to the other room.
Good choice. JC pulled
Kyles clothes out of the little suitcase and looked around for his sneakers. Where are your shoes?
Here.
No your black and white ones?
Doe no. Kyle shrugged.
Those dont match.
Is shoe. Kyle said as he
swung the red and blue shoe by the shoelaces.
Yeah its a shoe but it doesnt match what youre
wearing. JC tried to explain, then he
looked at his son walking around the room naked with shoes dangling from his hands, doing
a funky little dance as the towel he was covered in fell to the floor. Then again I guess it doesnt really
matter if your shoes match, huh? Youre
two.
I two. Kyle nodded.
Right. Maybe when you get old
like me youll care if your shoes match. JC
laughed. Come on, lets get you
dressed.
He got Kyle dressed and packed up to go, then met up with the others to go out to
the buses. They had an hour to get to the
venue to do their sound checks and meet and greet. Kyle
was going to have to hang out backstage for the show while Jessica fielded calls from
designers and helped coordinate colors with other presenters at several awards shows that
they would be presenting at in the next year.
JC frowned and kept his head down as they walked through the lobby and out to the
circular driveway. Daddy bus?
Yep, we get to ride the bus. JC
nodded and kept his eyes on the bus door so he could try to block out the crowd around
him.
JC! Is it true that Kyles
mother is seeking custody? A reporter
asked as he stepped off the red curb toward the awaiting bus.
Any other time JC would have brushed by and pretended he hadnt heard the
question, but for that one he stopped and surprised his security team. Hey Chris?
Take him up? He handed Kyle to
Chris as he passed and turned to look at the reporters,
I cant comment for Kyles mother, but as of right now he will
remain in my care, or under the supervision of his current caregiver on tour with
us.
Are you saying that there are legal proceedings in the works?
Not that I know of. JC
shook his head as his heart skipped a beat. This
is a personal and private matter and I would appreciate it if you let us sort this out on
our own. I wouldnt come to your work
asking you about your personal life. Id appreciate the same respect. Thank
you. Without giving them the time to
respond, JC turned and hopped onto the bus with Lance only a step behind.
The guys played their show at the Arrowhead Pond as Kyle watched from the sidelines
with his tiny earplugs in place. Jessica
stood with him and danced with him just out of the audiences view, but where the
guys could easily see if the stepped back far enough.
Between songs when they would disappear from stage they would make a point to run
by on their way on or off the stage, depending on their exit, and say hi.
Kyle was wired during the show and clapped wildly each time the fireworks went off
or the guys flew over the audience. Wow! He shouted with every new effect he saw. I go?
Kyle pointed toward the stage.
No. Jessica shook her
head. You can go tomorrow during the
day. She shouted to be heard over the
screams. Kyle nodded and turned his
attention back to the stage as he laughed and bounced in Jessicas arms.
When the show was over they were hustled immediately back to the hotel to get ready
for the drive the next morning. Jessica went
to her room after a quick goodnight to Kyle in the hall as he slept in JCs arms. Ill see you tomorrow. She said softly.
Gnight Jess. JC
whispered as Kyle squirmed in his arms. See
ya. He waved with his free hand and let
himself into his room.
Jessica yawned, but didnt dare to look at the clock as she fell onto her bed. She knew it was late, and she knew that five
thirty was going to come faster than she wanted. Jessica
tossed her room key and badges toward the table, then fell asleep in her clothes on top of
her blankets, saving her a few precious minutes in the morning.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
They spent the night in Anaheim then left early the next morning for San Diego. JC kept his cell phone on and within reach
constantly, still just waiting to hear from Lori. He
decided that if he hadnt heard from her by that night, hed swallow his pride,
bite his tongue and call her himself.
Kyle tagged along with the guys through their appearances in San Diego, including a
stop at a radio station and a visit to the local Childrens Hospital. While they were at the hospital Kyle stayed in the
lobby with two of the security guards, JC didnt want to take any chances with
Kyles health and certainly didnt want him to freak out if he saw a doctor.
I see no. Kyle shook his
head as JC picked him up from the hard plastic chair on their way out the door. The security team escorted them out to awaiting
vans to take them to lunch downtown.
You see no what?
No doc.
No doctors? JC asked.
Yeah. Kyle sighed as JC
strapped him into his seat.
Nope, youre one healthy little boy. JC smiled and sat back in his seat as they
left the parking lot. Healthy kids
dont usually have to see the doctor.
No lie.
You dont like the doctors?
No. Kyle shook his head.
The doctors made you better though. Doctors
are important, they make sure that you feel better when you hurt yourself.
Ow ina hand. Kyle clasped
his hands in front of him.
They had to give you medicine that way to make you all better. JC tried to explain.
Doctors are cool. Chris
nodded from the front seat. He leaned back
and looked at Kyle, Doctors rule.
No, ow.
If they didnt give you a shot then you might get really really
sick. Chris sighed and pursed his lips. If you got sick you couldnt see Lello
or Justin or me or daddy any more.
Kyle pondered that for a minute, I
sick?
No, youre not sick. But if
you get sick then the doctors can make you better.
I betto see Lello?
If youre better you can see Lello, yep. Chris nodded.
An Jussin?
Yep. JC patted his arm.
An sink?
JC and Chris laughed, Yeah, if
youre better you can see Nsync. JC
rubbed his hand over Kyles hair.
An mommy? Kyle asked a
minute later.
Chris raised his eyebrows and turned around in his seat, he didnt even want
to start that line of conversation. JC
cleared his throat quickly, Y-yeah. The doctors make you better so you can see m-mommy
too.
I see now?
You want to see her now? JC
asked softly.
Yeah. Kyle nodded and
reached down to pull at his shoes. Off?
No you have to leave your shoes on. Were
going to get out here in a minute. JC
said as he pulled Kyles hand back. You
cant see your mommy right now, shes not here. But
uh, but Ill call her later, okay?
Kay. Kyle nodded and
looked out the window. A truck! He pointed at a huge eighteen-wheeler, his mom
forgotten for the moment.
Youre gonna call her? Chris
asked softly.
I havent heard from her since LA.
If she doesnt call by the time we have to go to the venue Im going to
call to see whats going on.
Youre asking for trouble. Chris
shook his head.
Im doing whats right. Whether
I like it or not. JC shrugged.
He only had to convince himself of that.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
By three that afternoon, Lori still hadnt called and they had to be
downstairs in twenty minutes. JC watched
intently as Kyle made his T-Rex growl and claw his way up the side of the couch as he held
his phone in his hand. He didnt want to
call her but he knew he had to. He had to be
the grown up in this situation and show her that he was going to work with her no matter
what. If she wasnt going to take the
initiative, then he would.
JC dialed her number before he could change his mind and sighed as he listened to
it ring once. Yeah, hello? A girl answered gruffly. She didnt sound like Lori and JC debated
hanging up in her ear.
Uh hi, is Lori there? JC
asked softly.
Speak up man, I cant hear you.
The girl said.
Is Lori there? JC
repeated, a little louder.
No shes not here.
Okay, can you have her call me? This
is
Yeah Ill tell her to call, she has your number right? She cut him off.
Y-yeah she has my number, this
JC started to identify himself again, but was cut off as she hung up the phone.
Nice. JC sighed and
rolled his eyes. Okay Kyle, lets
get your stuff together.
I go?
Yep, were going.
Go see?
Were going to go see Jessica.
Again?
Yep, again. He nodded. She has your fuzzy blanket thing.
Kay.
Then were uh
well go to the show.
I say?
Nope, you can go. JC
dropped a few cars into Kyles backpack as well as two clean diapers and wipes.
No, I say. An Jessi.
I dont think Jessica is staying, I think shes going to the show
too. JC shook his head. And besides, you always stay with Jessica, I think youll have
fun at the show.
No. Kyle shook his head
and smiled up at JC, I say an
seep.
JC laughed, Well
see.
See. Kyle nodded. We go.
He headed for the door as JC laughed. Kyle
was talking so much more and compared to even just a few weeks before, he was so much
surer of himself.
Okay then. JC smiled and
picked up the backpack then took Kyles hand. Lead
the way kiddo.
They walked down to Jessicas room to collect his blanket before they went to
the show. Kyle knocked softly from knee
height, while JC knocked louder and higher. Hey
guys, come on in. Im right in the
middle of sorting this stuff out. Jessica
held the door open as they walked in, then went back to her bed where there were three
piles of clothes.
What are those?
Yes, no and maybe. She
indicated each pile. Its stuff
for those two awards shows youll be doing on your break. Which kind of denotes the whole purpose of the
break, but whatever.
Ahh, okay. Need some help? JC asked.
Nope, Ive got it. Jessica
smiled and brushed her hair behind her ear. JC
followed Kyle over to the window where the little boy was pressing his face against the
glass.
I tall.
Yep, you look pretty tall up here, huh?
JC asked softly. Hey, well I
dont want to keep you from this really exciting looking work
He laughed easily,
We just need to get Kyles blanket, and I think he left it here.
Yep. Its right over there
on top of my suitcase. Jessica nodded
toward the closet. I was going to send
it along with one of the crew guys.
Youre not going tonight?
To the venue? No. She shook her head.
I was there earlier and everything set up and ready to go. I have to finish sorting these clothes then
Ive got some serious infomercial watching time coming to me.
Ooh man that sounds like a ton of fun.
JC smiled broadly.
Do you want to leave Kyle with me tonight?
JC stared out the window for another second before he turned to face her, Would you?
Sure. She said softly.
He asked if he could stay with you, you know?
He did?
Yeah, I told him he was going to come hang out at the show and he was all, No, I stay with Jessi, it was
cute.
Thats cool. Jessica
blushed quickly and looked over at Kyle.
But hey, I know that the last couple shows are just a bunch of parties and
stuff, if you want to go just let me know
He shifted his weight from one foot to the other.
No, Im not a big party animal.
Jessica scrunched her nose at the thought.
I just dont think Id be able to keep an eye on him very well
and
and it goes kind of late and stuff.
Its okay.
But I mean, thats what being a parent is all about right? Making sacrifices?
Coming home early? Not going to
parties?
Yeah. She shrugged;
realizing thats what she had been doing for the past four months.
Ill be back as soon as the show is over. JC said quickly.
I uh
I havent heard from Lori since we were in LA and I kind
of
He sighed. I mean, not that I want to hear from her, but at the same time it kind
of worries me you know? Id feel better
if I knew where she was or what she was thinking. I
dont want her to think she can just drop in every couple months to say hi.
Have you tried calling her? Jessica
bit the inside of her cheek as the words left her mouth.
Yeah, some other girl answered and I guess took a message, but she
didnt get my name, so... JC
shrugged and sighed deeply. She called
the press you know?
She did what?
Lori? She called the
press.
Youre kidding.
Youve seen how nuts theyve been over the last couple days
right?
Well I just thought that was because the tour was
she really went to
the press?
How
else did they find out that his mom had shown up again?
Thats why theyre trying to get more pictures, theyre speculating
about almost everyone who walks into the hotel, Is that Kyles mom?
its sick, really.
Sheesh
Yeah, which is just another reason why I dont want him out and about. Man this is going to suck for him.
Well, you cant keep him cooped up forever.
Why not? JC laughed.
Because that would be child abuse.
Jessica smiled, Youd
better get going.
Yeah.
Ill see you after the show.
Right after.
Take your time. Well have
a little party of our own right here. Jessica
looked across the room to where Kyle and Elmo were laying on the bed reading a book
together.
Thanks. JC smiled and cast
one last glance at Kyle, Bye. He ducked out the door quickly, before he could
convince himself to stay any longer.
It was getting harder and harder for JC to leave Kyle, even if It was only for a
couple hours. He trusted Kyle with Jessica
more than anyone else, but he still felt like he should be the one taking care of his son. He just wanted to get through the next two shows
and get back home to Florida where he and Kyle could get into the normal lifestyle and
spend quality time together.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Lances girlfriend Amy arrived at the venue more than halfway through the show
and wandered around the backstage area looking for Kyle and Jessica. No one seemed to know where they were they were so
she made herself comfortable in the wings and watched the show from there.
When the show was over Lance was the first out of the dressing room, Hey you. He walked up to Amy and threw his arms around her. Lets get out of here before the
traffic is nuts.
The traffic will already be nuts.
Nope, the lights are still down, weve got about two more minutes. Lance laughed and pulled her hand as they ran for
the exit.
So how come Jessica isnt here with Kyle?
Ive looked all over for them. Amy
said as she and Lance slid into the backseat of the van to go back to the hotel.
Um, Kyles mom showed up the other day and the media has gone
ballistic.
Howd the press find out? I
mean, hes kept this whole thing pretty quiet.
Amy frowned.
Yeah, Ill give you two guesses how they found out. He rolled his eyes.
She did not. Amy shook her
head in disbelief. Youve got to
be kidding. That girl took it to the
media?
Yep. Lance nodded. Well, no.
I cant say that. I mean, we
dont know for sure. She hasnt
said anything about it or anything, but somehow or another it was leaked that Kyles
mom has danced back into the picture.
Jesus. She shook
her head, Whats JC say about
this?
Hes been amazingly calm believe it or not. Lance smiled,
All he said was that Kyle would have to stay indoors for a little while until
things settled down.
Id be livid.
He is livid. Deep inside I know hes about ready to blow
his top
but really Ames, you should have seen him in action. It was awesome. Lance shook his head and laughed lightly, He was all, I have no comment about
that at this time, and my son will remain under constant care and supervision of either
myself or his current care giver. It
was smooth.
Wow
Yeah.
Hows Jessica taking it?
Jess is uh
well, shes fine I guess. He shrugged.
Shes being quiet about it but she has a harder time hiding her true
feelings I think.
Yeah Ill bet. Amy
smiled as one of the security guards slid the door shut and they headed back to the hotel. Well definitely have to spend the day
at the spa tomorrow.
All day? Lance whined
softly.
Not all day, but a good portion. She
needs to vent and talk girl talk. Amy
laughed, Trust me, youll be
better off.
Okay. Lance sighed. I guess Ive just volunteered to watch
Kyle huh?
Why? Wheres JC
going? Amy asked.
Hes meeting with our PR people and management and lawyers and
stuff.
Lawyers?
Its just a precautionary thing you know.
Now that Kyles mom is around that opens up a whole bunch or doors and stuff. I mean, theres custody and visitation and
criminal charges
all that. He just
wants to make sure hes covering his own butt, you know?
Yeah thats just scary though.
Yep. Lance yawned and
rested his head on Amys shoulder. But
Im sure youll hear all about it tomorrow at the spa while you get your feet
waxed or whatever.
Feet waxing huh? Amy
laughed. You wouldnt make a very
good girl.
Good. Lance smiled and
kissed her quickly. Because when we have kids I want to be the one supporting you. You handle stuff like that better than I do.
Amy froze for a second then nodded slightly, Yeah. She managed as they pulled onto the freeway.
They rode the rest of the way in silence, and didnt say another word until
they were in their room at the hotel, but by then Lance was off on a side topic and
talking passionately about a new artist he was going to check out on their break from the
tour.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
The wake up call rang through Jessicas room at eight fifteen in the morning
and she grudgingly rolled out of her warm bed. She
pulled the curtains aside to let in the sun then hobbled to the bathroom to take a shower
and wake up a little more. She washed
quickly, then dried and dressed herself before throwing her hair into a loose ponytail.
When JC picked Kyle up the night before, he asked if she could watch him the whole
day and she of course said yes. He looked
like he was dreading whatever it was he had to do so the least she could do was watch
Kyle, that would be one less thing for him to worry about.
She checked her watch as she brushed her teeth and picked up the pace a bit; he
would be there at any minute.
Jessica looked her room over to be sure she had picked up anything breakable or
hazardous to a two year old. Her irons and
spray starches were put away, the new clothes were on racks and her own stuff was packed
up in her suitcase in the closet.
JC knocked on the door as she was checking the sliding glass door to make sure it
was locked. Kyle had found out how to open
them if they werent locked, and she didnt feel like having a heart attack that
afternoon.
Hi guys! She said
cheerfully as she opened the door.
Hi! Kyle screeched as he
wiggled to get out of JCs arms. Kyle
ran over to Jessica and quickly squeezed her knees, then went immediately for the sliding
glass door. He pulled the curtains back and
reached for the handle.
Its locked. Jessica
said softly as JC made a move to intercept Kyles hand. He cant get it open.
Man, I dont know when he started that but I almost died when I saw him
out on the balcony the other night. He
shook his head.
Two year olds are smarter than we give them credit for. Jessica laughed.
Heck yeah they are. JC
smiled and ran his hands through his hair. Im
sorry to keep dumping him on you.
Its okay. She nodded
and watched Kyle place his hands flat on the glass door to try to slide it open. She was getting used to having Kyle every day, so
it didnt feel like such a chore.
Ill make it up to you one of these days, I promise. As soon as I get all my crap in order.
Ill remember that. Jessica
laughed and looked at JC closely, What
are you doing today? Youre all dressed
up.
Im not dressed up.
Your shirt has buttons and youre not wearing sneakers. Youre dressed up.
Im meeting with some lawyers today.
What? Why?
Just to uh
you know, to talk about how this is going to work. JC nodded at Kyle.
Im also meeting with our publicist, the management team and all kinds
of people. Its going to be a long
day.
Sounds like it. Jessica
nodded. You look weird. She creased her brow as she looked closely.
Im nervous. He gave
a short laugh, This is new for
me.
I dont think Ive ever seen you nervous before. Jessica smiled and tilted her head. Nope, probably not. JC quickly turned his wrist to check the time, Ive uh
Ive got to
go.
All righty, say bye Kyle.
Bye daddy.
See you later tough guy. JC
smiled and kissed Kyles cheek before ducking out the door.
Kyle sighed and looked up at Jessica as the door slammed shut, Daddy go.
Yep, hell be back later though. Were
going to hang out today, does that sound like fun?
Jessica asked. She knew he had to be
getting tired of playing in a hotel room with her. He
needed other kids to play with, and not just childish adults, he needed other two and
three year olds to interact with.
Yeah. Kyle nodded. Is fun.
Cool.
Ona bus?
You want to go to the bus?
No. Kyle shook his head
and sighed again as he dropped to the floor to open his backpack.
Well have to find something new for us to do today. Jessica sat on the floor across from him and
pulled some matchbox cars out of his backpack.
Lello get agator. Kyle
picked up his floppy dog and walked to the far end of the room.
Oh of course! Lello can
help us find more alligators, thats a great idea buddy. Jessica smiled as the phone behind her rang, Oops, hang on. She scooted over to the nightstand and lifted the
phone off the receiver, Hello?
Miss Jessica! Amy sang
into the phone.
Hey you! Youre
here! Jessica laughed, No no sweetie, Lello doesnt use the
people toilet, he uses the puppy box. Jessica
said to Kyle just before he dunked his dog in the bowl.
Yep, Im here and Lance told me that you owe me.
I owe you huh?
A day at the spa? Something like
that?
Oh yeah. Jessica cringed
as she watched Kyle slam the lid to the toilet shut.
Hey buddy, out of the bathroom, come on.
She shook her head and waved for Kyle to come out.
I pay. Kyle frowned.
Not in the bathroom, no. Jessica
shook her head. Here check it out, I
got some new key chains for your backpack. She
tossed two plastic key chains on the bed by his bag and smiled. Sorry.
She sighed into the phone.
Its okay. Amy
laughed lightly. So what do you say? Lets go get pampered.
Ive got Kyle
Jessica
made a face and tried not to think about the mud mask and massage shed be missing.
So Lance will watch him. Amy
shrugged as she rested the phone between her shoulder and ear. Wont you babe?
What?
Youll watch Kyle so Jessica and I can go get spoiled downstairs at the
day spa? She threw him a glance that
said that the correct answer would be yes.
Sure thing. He nodded.
See? Lance will watch him. Come on, weve got an appointment in a half
hour. Bring Kyle down now so they can get
things situated then we can go.
Are you sure its okay?
Its fine. Amy
nodded. Cruise over.
All right, well be down in a minute.
I need to get his bag ready. Jessica
sighed.
Cool, see you in a few.
Bye. Jessica hung up and
looked at Kyle, Okay buddy, lets
get your things and pack them up.
We go bye?
Yeah, were going to Lances room.
Joey?
No, I dont know where Joey is. Lance
is going to watch you.
Kay. Kyle grabbed Elmo
off the bed and walked to the door, he knew the routine.
Itll only be for a little while, then Ill be back, okay?
And daddy?
Daddy will be back after we eat dinner tonight. Jessica nodded.
Hes working really hard today.
He wok?
Yep.
Why?
Hes working so that he can do a show tomorrow then go home to Florida
on Monday.
And me?
Yeah, youll get to go with him.
And you?
Jessica paused as they stepped out into the hall.
No, Im not going to Florida.
Go home?
Im going to my home, yep. I
live in Connecticut.
Oh. Kyle sighed and
scratched his ear. I see?
You want to see where I live?
Yeah.
Hmm, maybe one day I can show you my apartment. Its pretty cool. Jessica smiled as they walked down the opposite
hall in search of Lances room.
Cool. Kyle nodded and
stopped to adjust Elmo in his arms.
Here we go. Jessica
knocked on the door and stood back to wait as she heard Lance run toward the door.
Hey guys. He smiled as he
pulled the door open. Jessica followed Kyle
into the room and stopped just inside the door.
Lance is going to hang out with you for a while, okay? Jessica asked as Kyle reached for her hand.
Kay. Kyle smiled and
kicked at the leg of the chair beside him.
I bet Lance will get some good food for lunch, maybe even pizza.
Go ouside?
You guys can go out on the balcony, sure. Jessica nodded as Lance stood off to the side
tying his shoes.
An eat?
Youll have to see if Lance wants to eat outside. Jessica nodded.
Kay. Kyle sighed and
looked up at Lance, A nap?
What? Lance looked from
Kyle to Jessica.
He wants to know about a nap. Jessica
smiled.
Does he need one?
Yeah.
Okay, when? He asked.
Whenever he gets tired, usually right after lunch.
Okay. Lance nodded. And he wants pizza for lunch?
You can pretty much get whatever you want.
Hes like a little vacuum cleaner, he eats just about anything.
So hes like Joey only shorter?
Exactly. Jessica laughed
as Amy stepped out of the bathroom.
Hi Kyle! Amy exclaimed as
she knelt in front of him. I bet you
dont remember me, do you? Kyle
shook his head shyly and wrapped his arm around Jessicas legs. My name is Amy, Im Lances
friend.
Hi. He said softly.
Hi. She laughed. Hey you know what? If you brought a book in that bag of yours,
Ill bet Lance will read it to you. She
said softly.
I have.
You have a book?
Yeah.
Very cool. Amy stood up
and looked at Jessica, So, are you
ready to go?
Yep, are you guys going to be okay here?
Jessica looked at Lance who actually looked unsure.
Yeah, well be cool. Lance
gave a small nod.
Youve done this before hun.
Amy smiled to reassure him.
I know. Lance laughed and
extended his hand to Kyle, Come on bud,
I heard your little red doll thingy here laughs or something?
He tako. Kyle smiled and
took Lances hand while he carried Elmo in the other.
Sweet, this Ive got to see.
He waved over his shoulder as he and Kyle headed for the big recliner chair.
Lets leave while we can. Amy
pulled Jessicas hand and they left the room together.
Ugh, I dont know about you, but I could definitely use a full treatment
today. Jessica took a deep breath as
she leaned against the wall to wait for an elevator.
I think we can manage that. Amy
smiled. I made an appointment to have a
one hour full body massage and a deep cleansing facial.
Have I mentioned that I love you yet?
Jessica pretended to sob with happiness.
You really look like you could use it.
Thanks
I think. Jessica
gave her a look as they climbed onto the elevator. This
whole last week has passed in a blur. I mean,
its the last week so its more hectic than any other week to start with, but
with Kyle here its just a little more nuts, then
Jessica sighed.
This week has just been crazy. I
need some wine and a massage before I can talk about it. She laughed as they stepped off the elevator on
the top floor and into the sky lighted hall.
This is gorgeous. Amy
looked around in awe. I could get used
to this.
Me too. Jessica said
under her breath as they walked to the reception desk.
Amy signed them in for their appointment then sat beside Jessica on the mossy green
leather couch. They only waited a few minutes
before they were taken back to the changing rooms and given a soft, thick robe and a glass
of wine to sip while they waited for their masseurs to arrive.
They arrived after each girl had finished her wine and they got to work preparing
the massage tables side by side as well as setting the mood with light music in the
background.
Okay, spill it. Amy said
as she and Jessica lay on tables side by side. Their
masseuses stood beside the tables and lowered their towels to massage their backs in
unison.
Jessica sighed, Well, as you
know Lori came back. Just saying her
name brought a foul taste to Jessicas mouth. She
showed up out of nowhere at the show the other night and now all of a sudden she wants to
see Kyle.
Lovely. Amy rolled her
eyes as she rested her cheek on her arms. Did
she give any kind of explanation for leaving him?
Not to me. Jessica
grumbled. I did tell her that JC and I
are dating though.
You what? Amy laughed as
her eyes flew open.
Well she was just so cocky. I
swear it was either slap her or say that, which actually probably had the same
effect. Jessica sighed and let her eyes
close as the muscles in her back relaxed. Then
of course I had to tell JC that I told her that, and he was just all whyd you
tell her that?, but then when she came to visit Kyle I ran into them in the hallway
and he kissed me kind of.
He kissed you? Kind of?
Yeah, and he said to play along. So
I guess he wants Lori to think were dating too now.
I mean
obviously he does. Jessica
sighed. I havent really talked to
him about that yet though
I dont know, I mean I guess its not really my
business.
Except that youve raised her kid for the last couple months.
Well yeah
I think you have a right to know just as much as anyone.
Its between her and JC. Jessica
sighed. I just wish hed share it
with me just to share it you know
not because I need to know but because he thought Id like
to know.
You could always ask him. Amy
pointed out.
Yeah
I could. Jessica
frowned. Maybe I will.
Hows Kyles handling it?
Kyles great. I mean, I
dont see a difference at all.
Has he said anything to you about his mom?
Nope. Jessica shook her
head slightly. He just said I see
mommy then it was right back to playing with Tickle-Me-Elmo.
I wonder how he took it. Seeing
her again after all this time I mean.
I dont know. Jessica
continued to frown. So far its
only been that once though, like three days ago. But
get this
she was late.
What?!
She was supposed to be there at eleven for an hour long visit and she came
rolling in around noon.
Jesus. Amy said under her
breath. Is she serious?
Who knows? That just goes to
show how committed she is though, I mean, she hasnt seen her son in four months and
when she finally gets the chance she shows up an hour late?
And she hasnt called JC since the meeting either. Thats messed up.
Yeah it is.
Ugh, I just want to take him and run away to Mexico or something. Jessica grumbled.
Ooo, take me with you. Amy
laughed.
Hes meeting with his lawyers today, did you know that?
Yeah, thats what Lance said.
Hes scared out of his mind.
Jessica said softly. You should
have seen him this morning, I mean really. Hes
completely torn over this, and nothings even happened really.
Is he going to talk to Lori about it?
I dont know. Jessica
sighed. He hasnt said anything
to me about her.
Well maybe theyll talk and work things out between themselves, all this
lawyer talk might be pointless.
Yeah but the fact that he has to talk to them at all give him the shakes. Theres no way he could give up Kyle
now.
Of course not.
Ugh
forget it. Lets
talk about something else. This just makes me
tense and I dont need any more of that. Jessica
frowned deeply and took a deep breath.
They lay in silence for a few minutes before Amy opened her eyes and looked at
Jessica, Lance mentioned kids last
night.
Yeah?
Yeah. As in his and mine. Ours. He
mentioned our kids.
Are you serious? Jessica
almost sat up straight.
And it kinda freaked me out. What
does that mean?
That youre smart and not ready for kids yet. Jessica laughed.
Being around Kyle all the time has taught me one thing. While I adore him and hes the best possible
kid, theres no way I could be a real mom right now.
Oh God, me either. Amy
sighed. But I dont think
thats what he meant. Or what I meant,
I mean
I know he didnt mean the kids wed have right away, but just the
fact that hes thought that far ahead you know?
Havent you?
Well yeah, of course. Ive
day dreamed like any normal girl. Amy
smiled like a teenager in love. But
still
So how long have you guys been together now?
Total? About three years. About two before
when we were in high school
kind of a the beginning of this whole Nsync thing. Amy
laughed lightly, Then two years off
while he went out and made it big and we were just friends.
Weve been dating now for more than a year.
Since right before No Strings came out.
So maybe hes thinking about more?
Oh man
Amy closed
her eyes. I cant think about that
right now, Ill get all fluttery in my stomach and nervous.
Okay. Jessica laughed. They were there to relax and have a good time, So what are you guys doing next week?
Were going to Florida for a couple days, then to Mississippi for a week
or so.
To see his family?
Yeah. Amy sighed. Theyre like the perfect family. Like a Norman Rockwell painting, its amazing
that Lance turned out so normal. I know if my parents had been that perfect cookie cutter
type, Id have gone bananas. She
laughed and let the masseuse melt away the tension in her shoulders. What about you?
Ive got a few glorious weeks of doing absolutely nothing. Jessica yawned though she wasnt tired. My room mates will pick my brain for the
first week or so, then itll be back to late night munchie parties, bike rides,
movies. Man, I love being normal.
Amy laughed and nodded in agreement, they were lucky that they could go back to
being normal at the end of the day. How
do you think Lance is doing with Kyle? Amy
asked as they left the massage room an hour later on their way to get facials.
Jessica laughed, Theres
not a doubt in my mind that Kyle has Lance wrapped around his tiny little finger.
Oh definitely. Lance is such a
softy. Amy shook her head and held the
door open for Jessica. Ill bet
hes teaching Kyle the fine art of bird watching or something thought provoking like
that.
Jessica shook her head and smiled, Lance
is in for a big surprise. With that,
the girls forgot all about Lance and Kyle and headed into the next phase of their day at
the spa.
Copyright �
2001, Amy Lynn