" Let your heart guide you. It whispers, so listen closely."- The Land Before Time<3

---- Chapter titles song name? --------------------------------
 
Charlotte's POV-----------

I began to search frantically, moving around shouting her name. Some people stopped to see what was going on, some asked if they could help me, some ignored it all together.
 
I was running around for 5 minutes screaming her name before i began to cry. It wasn't a subtle cry either, tears poured down my cheeks as i pulled the phone to my ear.
 
"Helllo" His voice chimed into the receiving end.
"I- I- I can't find her Wynn. " I sobbed, still moving down each hall way i found.
"Wh- What?" His voice cracked, suddenly panicked.
"She got hurt i went to the bathroom 5 ft away for 2 minutes and i came back, shes gone, i can- can't find her" I sputtered out, turning each door knob before knocking.
 
" She's just gone? I'm on my" I got cut off by falling into someones solid chest. Breathing heavily, but not as raspy as my own breaths.
 
"Sorry, Sorry" I choked out. I then saw his piercing green eyes, the same ones who had made contact with mine and Aria's during the concert. He was in One Direction.
 
I began to cry harder when i heard it from behind him. Laughter.
 
Aria's.
 
"Charm!" She squealed running over to me.
"ARIA!" I grabbed a hold of her sobbing into her as i crouched down to her height. I could tell more people were around us but i didn't care.
 
"Charm, why are you crying?" She asked pulling away scared.
"You, you were gone. Oh god I thought you were gone" I stated panicking and grabbing a hold again.
 
"Charm, i took the tickets you gave me and came to find One Direction.
 
I then got frustrated and angry an helpless. When i pulled back i knew she knew what was happening.
 
"Ariana Anabella Avery!" I shouted as she stood firmly but the other bodies around us flinched.
 
"Why the hell would you, why would you do that to me" I shook her softly, but then resulted in crying again.
 
"Sissa" She whined leaning into me, as she now cried.
 
"I didn't mean to scare you, i just didn't want to miss them. This chance comes once and i didn't wanna lose it." AS she pulled away she sniffled pleading with me.
 
"I don't want to lose you. Please, never disappear like that again. When i say stay, i mean it. Okay?" I asked her softly.
 
"I promise" She stuck her pinky out and i wrapped mine around hers. I picked her up and she rested her head in my neck. When i stood up i was greeted with some confused expressions by faces i'd known to well.
 
"We didn't know" Harry had said.
"It's fine, she's okay. It's fine" I repeated twice, almost like i was convincing myself, which of course i was.
 
"We're real sorry" The blonde one I knew to be Niall said.
 
"Shi't " I spoke aloud.
"Swear jar" Aria sing-songed as i shot her a glare so she retreated.
 
"I was on the phone with Wynn. He probably called mom and dad Ari." I told her as she gulped almost ready to cry again.
 
"Hey, it's okay. Alright? I'l call and fix it okay? Don't worry. Go sit down, this time dont move okay?"
I patted her back as Niall took her hand scooping her up as she cried a little.
 
The boys followed as i rang Wynn.
 
"Hello" His voice was a strangled cry.
"I found her. I found her" I rushed my words.
"OH thank god" He sighed letting out a groan as well.
 
"I was just about to call your parents." He said matter of factly.
"She was with the band, she ran to meet them, she didn't want to miss them. " I let out a shaky ironic laugh.
 
"Jesus." He sighed again.
"Wynn, thanks" I said after a few seconds of shared silence.
 
"No, of course Charlotte." His voice was calm and supportive.
 
"Look i'll see you at home. We'll be there soon. Okay?" I whispered.
"Yeah, be safe." He whispered back before ending the call.
 
I was about to walk back to where the boys were, where my sister was just staring into space, when i heard them talking. Causing me to smiled and mentally laugh.
 
HARRY'S POV---------------------------------------
 
When she had frantically bumped into me, i could tell something was wrong. Before i could ask though she was attached to the little girl who had VIP passes. I could tell she was distraught over the younger girl, obviously being her sister. Suddenly i felt awful knowing she'd been searching high and low for the little girl and we had been with her not
knowing.
 
As we left her to make a phone call and Aria was soon distracted, us boys talked amongst our selves.
 
"She's so mine. Look at her, tattoo's, dark hair, mystery is so me." Zayn nodded enthusiastically.
 
"No, actually the way she cared about her sister and the fact she has the same blue eyes i do, i think shes meant for me" Niall had said as her sister laughed a little. I turned and smiled to her, still staying quiet. Trying to remember why i felt the way i did.
 
"No, no way. She got a one in a million smile and the shoes say everything. Smart, cute, friendly. She's responsible too, that means she'd be meant for me" Liam interjected.
"No she'd be mine" Louis demanded, and all of us boys turned our heads to him.
 
"Why?" Liam asked.
"Because, just because" He sighed happily.
 
I laughed and they all just looked at me now noticing i had been quiet.
 
"Actually she's mine. Meant for me lads. " I smiled cheekily. Her sister sat up out of Nialls embrace and smiled.
"I saw them both dancing during our show, gave um a sudden wink. Ask the little one there. Niall, she has turquoise eyes, now blue. Liam, you can't tell a person from their shoes. Louis, isn't Charlotte your sisters name?. I mean Zayn has the best argument but it's invalid, because she's meant for me." I smiled but before the lads could over throw me she began walking over smiling happily. Sitting directly next to Niall.
 
"Soo." She said softly as Aria crawled onto her lap.
 
"We're real sorry" Niall spoke again.
 
"I know" She put her hand to his cheek and she made it seem like the most desirable thing a girl could do. I was envious.
 
The girl with the turquoise eyes, was mine.
 
"Not that we'd been properly introduced, I'm Harry. " I spoke sitting on the other side of her as he sister smiled at me.
 
"Charlotte." She said coyly smiling at me.
"So just to make this clear, If mystery is Zayn's type, then i'd be meant for him. Just saying. I mean Louis, and Liam, you're great but uh, you've got girlfriends, and Liam my shoes, well they were the only maroon ones i packed. I'd of rather wore converse. Niall, sorry, you're sweet, but taken. Aria has dibs."
 
Everyone was blushing like crazy, especially me. Knowing she saved it for last.
 
"Harry" She turned her head directly towards me. I blushed turning my head slightly to indicate i was listening.
" I'm an old band fan. So are thousands of people.
The point of the matter is, I'm not your type. I'll guarantee that. " And then she winked.
 
All the boys started laughing.
"Ill guarantee you are." I challenged but before she could answer the closed doors busted open.
 
A guy who would tower over me standing somewhere in the six foot something area, brown hair that was short and shaken out, grey eyes, and complete tan stood there breathing heavily.
 
All of us boys were surprised and almost ready to call security.
"Ryder" Charlotte stood up quickly.
"Is she okay? " The guy had managed to get out when Aria stood up, crying again harder than before.
 
"I didn't mean to Ry." She cried as he lifted her clear off the ground. Another boy came rushing in, pulling Charlotte into a tight embrace before he said anything.
 
"Wynn." She whispered and i could feel the jealousy in me. For a girl i had met only an hour ago.
 
"I know you said you'd meet us at home, but i just, i couldn't I was too freaked out." He pulled away staring at her.
 
"We're going back to the tattoo shop." The taller one holding Aria announced.
"But Ry, that a half hour away." Aria whined.
"It's only 9:30" Charlotte reminded her.
"Say your goodbye Ar" He warned in a big brother fashion.
 
So she did, she scrambled to hug each one of us. Charlotte then released from the boy and came over to us.
 
"Thank you, really. This is the best birthday present i could of given her, minus the scare i got." She chuckled hugging the boys.
 
"And you, we'll see Mr. Styles. We will see" She winked after letting go of the hug. I had managed to slip my number in her back pocket and im sure she had noticed.
As well as every pair of eyes in the room. She was definitely something else, and we would see who
would win this challenge.
 
I could guarantee it being me who wins. As I likely wouldn't ever forget Charlotte Avery, the worried beautiful and mysterious sister.
 
Therefore i would never give up on being her type or learning how she was mine.
 
Harry Styles was everyone's type.
He also didn't have type until now.
Charlotte.

The hours passed and minutes just seemed to fly as we sat in the car, peacefully and even more so crazily. Dancing to the beat of whatever song we knew popping up on the radio. Eventually Aria fell asleep and I was left to drive silently. I didn't mind though knowing what was in store for tonight, that Aria could use a good nap.
 
She eventually woke up right on cue, 2 minutes from the Tattoo Shop. Wynn was standing perched out front, staring at his watch worriedly and tapping his foot softly. When he seen my car he smiled brightly, ducking his head into the shop. As he pulled out i was parking and Ryder came strolling out of the shop.
 
Aria was already opening her door as i shut the car off. She ran to Ryder and wrapped her arms around his waist before he hoisted her up into his bare arms.
 
Wynn rubbed her back before coming up to me, smiling as wide as he could. It took one second for me to catch his familiar smell before he wrapped his arms around me. I couldn't help but smile back and wrap my arms around his neck.
 
"Missed you Char." He whispered against my neck that sent shivers through my spine, no doubt making me blush. He knew it too.
 
"I miss you too Winnie" I chuckled as he groaned at the nickname i had made up so many years ago when we were both just kids.
 
" Share" Ryder protested behind us.
"No, go away. She's mine" Wynn laughed into my ear before letting me out of his embrace, but still a arm draped around my waist.
 
"Char" Ryder cooed as if he hadn't seen me in forever, when actually it had only been 3 months.
 
"Ryder" I laughed mocking his tone, stepping closer, where he too wrapped me in a hug that seemed much like a vice grip.
 
I didn't mind though, seeing as this was a normal thing between us now.
 
"Oh my god! MY HAIR!" A small strangled cry loud enough to ruin the moment came from a distressed Aria. Her hands on her hips and her face scrunched up staring in the window of the tattoo shop.
 
Her hand was fussing over a few strands standing up in back.
 
"Aria you look fine" I protested to her.
 
" I have to fix this, only two hours until the concert" She whined as Ryder laughed picking her up.
"To the apartment we go." He walked off into the shop with her.
 
"Here let me help with those" Wynn suggested looking down at the luggage.
 
" Thank you." I said as we began walking.
"So she's really excited about that concert" He offered up as he set the stuff into the guest room.
 
"You have no idea" I smiled as he shrugged.
 
Before I knew it i was adding a touch of make up and re adjusting my shirt. It kept slowly rising up to right under my belly button. Before I had time to search for a tank top Aria was running around scrambling to find her One Direction book i had been reading to her.
 
I laughed at the thought of that, instead of little kid bedtime stories it had resulted into a obsession of a boy band in the 20th century.
 
"Charm, we need to go its 6:35!" She shouted from the doorway.
 
"Fine, come on." I muttered, frustrated i didn't have time to grab my tank top.
 
"Call us if you need anything" Ryder called out smirking.
 
"Have fun ladies" Wynn added with an equally smug smirk.
 
"Yeah, eff you guys" I hissed walking out the door.
 
Soon enough we got there and Aria was bouncing around. She didn't know i had an even bigger surprise so i could imagine in an hour after i told her.
 
While security rang us through, you could see the One Direction fans spread widely. Little kids, teenage girls, moms, dads, teenage guys, little kids rambling everywhere.
 
The stage had lit up and the band had come forth being introduced and the screaming had erupted. High pitched noise, and Aria was in on it so i couldnt help but laugh.
 
The music began pounding through the speakers and the whole arena was lit up.
 
"Oh my god, What makes you beautiful." Aria screeched, looking close to tears from excitement.
 
I lifted her up on my shoulders as she sand along to the song as we both had done to the random songs in the car.
 
She slid down my back and stood next to me dancing around the little space she could move.
 
Until she got pushed a little , not very much but enough to startle her. She latched onto my hands and tensed up. Her body didn't move for a few seconds until i started dancing around with her, our hands still attached.
 
That's when it happened.
 
His eyes met the both of ours.
 
This was enough to set her off, her hands left mine as she began to jump around and scream. I laughed at the sight and continued dancing around.
 
The concert kept playing and eventually things got a little out of hand. By a little i mean someone had started a pushing match that caught Aria in the middle making her fall, scratching her arm harshly and her now, pained scream.
 
Before i could check on her i was between the two girls arguing over who loved the band more. Then they noticed me stopping in their tracks.
 
"Shut the hell up! My little sister is on the ground because of you two morons." I growled as the blonde girl backed away from me.
 
"You're lucky she wasn't hurt worse, and by lucky i mean for your sake" I hissed as the brunette was almost in tears.
 
There was only one song left and I didn't really care. By now Aria's arm was bleeding enough to have me concerned and dragging her out of the crazed fan area.
 
"Charlotte! I'm fine" She screeched.
 
"Let me clean your arm, and maybe i'll let you meet One Direction" I smiled sheepishly.
 
"Jeez Char, lie to me why don't cha?" She grumbled sitting on a bench as you could hear the last song wrapping up.
 
"No really. I got the only VIP back stage passes" I smiled pulling them out of my pocket watching her reaction.
 
"No way! No Way!" She screamed jumping up, which caused her to groan loudly and whine.
 
"Let me just go get some wet paper towels. " I gestured by pointing to the bathroom 5 ft away.
 
"Okay" She smiled in her own world by now. The cheering erupted from the distant arena.
 
" I'll only be a minute, stay here" I told her walking to the bathroom. As the door shut the bathroom was virtually empty. I knew most of the girls were still hanging on every last tune in the arena hoping for some moment the boys would choose them.
 
The paper towels were damp enough so i decided to grab a few dry ones too. I now wished i had brought my purse, so i would have a band aid with me.
 
My hand reached and flung the door open and you could immediately tell the difference. People filled the walkways every where you turned, as i turned my head to the bench i froze.
 
She was gone.
Aria.
 
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Tagged:
@scottyholic101
@rider4ever
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Try & guess the song the chapter title comes from.

-----Guess the name of the chapter title song---------------------------------
 
Charlotte's POV--------------------------
 
As my eyes opened, the light barely lit my room up. When I turned my head to the right i noticed the clocked blinked 5:45, on a Saturday. I had wondered why i was awake this early in the first place until i turned my face to the left. Aria was sitting on her knees smiling wildly at me as if she couldn't bare one more moment in bed.
 
"One Direction sissa!" She shouted happily hugging me tightly. I let out a soft chuckle and ruffled her hair.
 
"Alright Ari, let go get pretty then. "
Instantly she hopped out of my bed, standing a little over 3 feet tall. She was already dressed in the One Direction shirt we had bought and then decorated and a pair of dark Capri's and her black converse. Her name shined on the back of her shirt as she twirled.
 
"How long have you been awake?" I asked in disbelief making her giggle and jump on my bed once more.
 
"I'm excited Sissa." Her response was that simple.
 
"Okay let me just take a shower and get dressed, you pack the rest of your bag so we can leave after okay?" She jumped up and clapped her hands running down the hall.
 
Making my way out of bed I tried to be quiet wondering if my parents were still asleep. When i reached the stairs and heard talking in the kitchen i knew they weren't. They were just as awake as Aria was. As I made my way to the kitchen my parents looked my way smiling.
 
I groaned and sat next to my dad and across from my mom as they slid me some breakfast.
 
" Still tired?" MY mom asked gently. I laid my head against my dad's shoulder as he kissed my forehead.
 
"You know we could take her Char, you don't have to." My dad whispered.
 
This time i sat my head up opening my eyes determinately.
 
"No, no I want to do this. She really wants me to go, not her parents, that's uncool even to 6 year olds."
I laughed as my parents gave their gasps and laughs.
 
" Wynn & Ryder know your staying over for the week right?" My moms voice sounded worried and I could tell she was concerned.
 
"Don't worry mom, they do and Charlie told them they'd better be the best son's and hosts ever. The tattoo shop is below the apartment and its in a safe area. I promise. I won't let anything happen to Aria."
 
My voice was still groggy but my mom knew i was serious. She crossed the kitchen hugging me tightly.
 
"Yeah, but what about you? Who looks after you while we are away?" She laughed nervously.
 
"I'm not little mom." I reminded gently.
"I know. I know." She said softly getting teary eyed.
"Mom.." I began.
 

"Charm!" Aria yelled across the kitchen making us all jump.
"ARIA!" I yelled back yet she just stood there, attitude and all with her hands placed on her hips.
 
"Shower, go." She demanded. I laughed and stepped off the stool passing her.
 
"Yes ma'am." I saluted her and she couldn't help but crack a smile and chase me upstairs.
 
After about two hours passed where I had taken a shower gotten dressed, packed the rest of my bags and loaded the truck, Aria was pacing looking at her watch.
 
"It's almost 8." She whined as my mother let out a sigh.
 
"We know hun." MY mom leaned down and kissed her cheeks saying goodbye and my dad just engulfed her in a hug.
 
"You listen to your sister." He warned as she bobbed her head.
 
"Go get in the car Ari." She happily skipped out of the house leaving me with my parents.
 
"Call when you get there okay" My mom asked more than reminded.
"Of course, you'll let me know when you guys get to LA right? " I asked them back.
"Sure, sure. " My dad said smiling hugging me tightly not wanting to let go .
"Brent, put her down. I'd like to tell her bye" She told my dad as he placed me gently on the ground.
 
"Okay, just be careful. Not to much partying please, at least not with your sister?" She asked calmly.
"Course mom.. Plus kinda passed that phase." WE all laughed knowing my wild kind of days were behind us.
 
"I'll make sure to scope out any cute boys looking to get a movie deal or documentary written" My mom and I laughed except my dads face kind of turned to stone talking about boys.
 
"Nice boys daddy." I smiled at him as he let out a sigh.
 
Both of my parents were apart of a movie making company. My dad was the producer and my mom was well everything in between. Fashion, scripts, casting, director, everything.
 
"Alright, i love you guys. See you in a week." I smiled while walking to the truck. When i started the engine i knew we were in for a long trip. From Christopher IL, to Chicago it was almost 7 hours long. Plus with my little sister who was babbling on and on nervously and excitedly about One Direction, and was impatiently sighing.
 
Maybe the drive would be pretty awful but hey, hundreds of miles of back roads was paid off when i saw how happy my sister was in the seat beside me. I could just imagine how she would feel tonight.
 
One Direction was definitely worth the trouble.

Charlotte Avery wasn't your typical teenage girl. Through life you meet thousands of people, Charlotte was the type of person you remembered if you met her. If you based her off stereotypes you'd come up blank.
 
On the outside she was edgy and rough. Her hair fell straight as a pin to her small chest, and achieved a silky sleek black look. Although her hair was chopped in places and bangs flew in her face quite often. She tended to dress in old band t-shirts, tank tops and hoodies paired with an assortment of jeans. While she looked dark and maybe "emo" she wore almost no make up ever and could get preppy if she felt in the mood.
 
I guess yo could say the way Charlotte dressed fit the way her life played out. At just the age of 4 she had been thrown into foster care when her father had been sent to jail for 15 years and her mom could barely keep food down let alone take care of a child while she was drunk. Which was almost all day every day except for the few occasions she wanted to look nice going to the prison visits for her father.
 
She had, had a rough time in the system as most kids did. Some foster parents were mean and abusive, just as her parents were. Some were nice but overcrowded in a small house. Some just didn't even acknowledge her just using her as an excuse to get a check from the state.
 
Charlotte had had her fair share of smacks and belligerent scream fests leading up to her next foster home. When she was just twelve her foster moms boyfriend had snuck into her room on most night for almost 4 months.
 
She had tried drugs and drinking at a young age of 13 and even self harm. Later on throughout that year though, she met the Avery's. Or at least the one person she did love in the world had. Her social worker Charlie, and he seemed very excited so she tried her hardest to be polite.
 
When she met them though, she noticed it took little effort. The Avery's, Brent and Lila sat across from her in a chilled white room with a sudden twist. A baby no more than 2 on their lap. The way they catered to the babies every noise and movement made her curious as to the way a family is actually suppose to work.
 
When she had asked them why they were looking to foster when they had a beautiful toddler, the wife had spoken up first.
 
"We aren't looking to foster. " She had said quietly as if she did something wrong.
"If you aren't here to foster why are you meeting with me? " Her voice was thick with concern when the husband, Brent spoke.
 
"What Lila meant was, we are looking to adopt. We wanted to have another baby after Aria was born but we had already had to go through IVF treatment with her we figured we'd consider other options and we really would love to adopt instead."
 
Her mind was shaken. They had called her here to adopt her? That was all it took, the way they were certain of each other and kept close worrisome watch over their stumbling daughter was enough for Charlotte.
 
It had only taken the Avery's two months to fall in love with Charlotte, not even that, it just took that long for the adoption papers to arrive. For the last four years she had been their daughter.
 
Even if Charlotte was edgy and had tattoo's and liked loud bands, she was soft on the inside. Gentle even, she cared geniuely about everything. The environment, children, people, politics, the way of life and most of all animals. They lived in a southern Illinois, in a small town in a fairly large house.
 
Charlotte was going to be a senior after the summer passed. She was a straight A student, cheerleader, swimmer, camp helper, volunteer for everything. Being involved was her thing.
 
She was a 17 year old girl who surprised people, but two things never shocked people.
 
Charlotte had just about every house animal possible but her two puppies were the loves of her life. Poseidon and Zeus were her two husky puppies.
 
The second thing was, the most important thing in her whole world was what mainly made her consider the Avery's, her little sister Aria who was now almost 6.
 
There wasn't anything she wouldn't do for her. So when Aria begged for her to take her to Chicago for her 6th birthday present, how could she say no?
 
What was in Chicago? One Direction.
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Guess the chapter title song?

--- Later, with Emerson the setup is like this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTX7aKr9O4I --------------------------------------------------------------------
 
March 1st; 8PM
Justins Party.
 
JUSTINS POV---------------------------------------
 

Everyone around me was having fun and Chaz and Ryan were dancing with these two girls next to me. My parents and my friends and at least 150 people were here, except the only face in the room i was searching for.
 
I hadn't seen nor talked to Emerson since I kissed her an walked off, maybe being mysterious wasn't a good idea. Why did i even do that? Then i remembered it was Ryans idea.
 
My arm extended and hit Ryan in the chest. When he looked up he smiled and greeted me happily.
 
"I listened to you and now shes not here. THANKS!" I shot sarcastically at him. You could see confusion written all over his face.
 
"I kissed her and walked out and now shes not here" I said looking around the room again.
 
"Bro, who is she? because you haven't told any of us and we can't help you unless we know who she is."
 
So i had kept it a secret of who i was after, no big thing right?
 
"Its Em, Emerson is who I'm in love with. " I finally sighed in defeat.
 
"Oh Jeez Justin. No wonder my advice didn't work. That girl is a piece of work and she isn't every other girl, shes your best friend. My advice if i knew it was her would have been just come clean and tell her. She feels the same way you idiot." He shook his head and laughed lowly.
 
" Now you tell me" I groaned scanning the room and when i didn't find Em in the crowd i found my mom.
 
"Mom, wheres Emerson?" My voice interjected between her conversation with Kenny and my dad.
 
"Sweetie. I don't know." She sounded concerned but Kenny smiled.
"You, big man tell me where she is. I know you know." I tried to sound tough but he was Kenny and he just laughed.
 
"You really wanna' know?" He asked me.
"Of course" Wasn't it obvious. How didn't everyone see the anxiety spilling off of me?
 
"Come with me" He began dragging me to the middle of the room and then told me to stay put and face forward. I was confused but he reminded me not to move, so i didn't. I guess Em was dishing back the exact mystery i had given her.
 

EMERSONS POV-------------------------------------------------
 
As I stared down at myself it was almost hard to recognize. The orange color dressed that flowed off my body and the silver high HEELS that matched. Just the word heels wasn't me. My hair was curled into a loose fashion that i did however love.
 
Kenny knocked against the open door hat was backstage and leaned into the frame smiling.
 
"Is he ready?" I asked nervously.
"The anxiety is like spilling over to the floor. He's searching and scanning the room for you. "
 
"you didnt tell him did you?"
"Of course not. How you holdin up ?" He came in and shut the door.
 
"I'm so nervous. So So nervous, i dont know if i can do this Kenny." I shook my head in fear.
 
"Emerson, listen to me. You can do this, you were born for this, and you can handle hell and back you can handle this." Kenny sounded confident and for a minute i believed him entirely. That minute got me to grab the mic.
 
"I'm ready."
 
Kenny grabbed my hand and escorted me to the stage where the light was now burning bright. I peeked around the corner and could see Justin looking around.
 
Kenny walked out first smiling bright and Justins head flashed towards him and his face flushed with confusion. When i fell in line next to him he set a chair out but i decided to stand. Justin looked at me smiling but still confused. Good.
 
Everyone turned towards me and I felt my cheeks get hot, but that smile on his face could carry me through anything.
 
"Justin. " I began and my eyes already filled with tears as he smiled this careless but thoughtful smile.
 
"You're my best friend. Which is literally the biggest understatement of my life. In reality, you're as much to me as a person can possibly be. People don't understand us, and i don't really care. You've saved me everyday for the last 3 years and 11 months. You didn't give me a choice 4 years ago, you said Hello and never looked back. I wasn't the type to get involved with people but you, you were and you just had to have me in your life." I chuckled laughing at the memory of him telling me that after watching The Notebook.
 
His smile still was bright but his eyes were glossed over with clear tears as Selena nudged his arm happily. At that moment I got what she meant about not being passionately in love. What was the point if you weren't hopelessly and insanely and extraordinarily, passionately, over the moon in love?
 
Lucky for me, I was. All of those things and so much more, and it was about damn time Justin knew.
 
"Justin, I thought about it." I smiled and looked at him as his eyes looked eager.
 
"Happy birthday bestfriend, i hope you like you surprise " I first said and then realized that wasnt what i was looking for.
 
"Here's what I think."
 
The projector behind me kicked on and images of me and Justin flooded the screen and when i turned back around to face him, Kenny handed me my mic and turned the music up.
 

"Well you had me from hello
I felt love start to grow
The moment I looked into your eyes you won me
It was over from the start you completely stole my heart
And now you won't let go
I never even had a chance you know
You had me from hello"
 
.
JUSTINS POV------------------------------------------
 
She was saying she loved me, she loved me back.She was saying she felt the same way i did, she loved me the way i loved her. Thats what she was saying right. Selena smiled happily at me like ' i told you so.'
 
"Inside I built a wall
So high around my heart, I thought I'd never fall
One touch, you brought it down
The bricks of my defenses scattered on the ground
And I swore to me I wasn't going to love again
The last time was the last time I'd let someone in
 
But you had me from hello
I felt love start to grow
The moment I looked into your eyes you won me
It was over from the start you completely stole my heart
And now you wont let go
I never even had a chance you know
You had me from hello"
 
My eyes filled with tears, i was actually crying. Even though i felt like i couldn't move, i made my way up the steps to her on the stage. Her eyes looked anxious as I did so. All eyes were on us now, and im sure that made her more nervous. When i reached the stage she stayed where she was, so i went to her.
 
Her voice, still beautiful, shook.
 
"Thats all you said
Something in your voice caused me to turn my head
You had me from hello
You had me from hello"
 
It wasn't until i had my face close to hers that I could here her uneven breaths between the words. She saw i was crying and extended her hand onto my cheek swiping them away. As I did the same for her.
 

"Justin, I've loved you from hello" She whispered finally. Everyone clapped and waited for something to happen.
 
"Think about it" She smiled at me, and began to walk away.
 
EMERSONS POV-----------------
 
I got almost two steps away before he reached his arm out and pulled me to him. My face must of seemed shocked because he laughed.
 
"I thought about it." He said quickly like he couldnt say it fast enough.
 
His lips enclosed over mine and although everyone was staring and cheering, the moment couldn't of been more perfect.
 
We both pulled away breathless and smiling.
 
"Sorry it was a love song" I laughed quietly as he smiled.
 
"I love you, so much em. I'm in love with you " He pressed his forehead against mine.
 
He was telling me he was "in love with me" like i had imagined.
 
"I've been waiting on the for four years. I'm in love with you too" I whispered kissing him softly.
 
Eventually we got off the stage and went backstage.
 
"Your wearing heels." He chuckled
"Yeah" I whined leaning into him.
"Why?" He asked curously.
"Because, i didn't want to go on stage in this pretty dress and tell you i loved you and ruin it by putting boots on and looking like a redneck." I mumbled sitting on the couch. He fell in the seat beside me.
 
"Take those off." He told me. I looked at him strangely and he reached for my foot removing the heel.
 
"You could be whatever it is you want. Redneck to Victoria Secrets model and i wouldn't care. I'd love you anyways." He smiled at me.
 
"Of course you would, i'd be a Victoria Secrets model. " I laughed as he pulled my favorite boots from next to the couch, into his lap.
 
"You're a hell of a lot sexier when you're just you" His hand went to pull my boot on when i pushed it out of the way.
 
"That door's locked right?" I asked innocently.
"Yeah, why?" He asked genuinely confused.
I pushed the boots onto the floor and began kissing him. His hands traveled down to my hips as i straddled his stomach. His mouth was heavy and hot across mine.
 
"I love you" He whispered, pulling away lightly.
"I love you too" I leaned in to kiss him again.
 
What happened after that, was between Justin and I. It was funny how everything just seemed to finally work out, but even funnier that this was really, just the beginning .

Emerson's POV-------------------------
 
It was a little after 9 am when we landed in Canada and Justin was pretty much out for the whole trip. Kenny even had to pick him up and put him in the car for the hour drive to his grandparents. His only response was his lips that let out a half groggy groan and then turned his head into my shoulder. I laughed quietly and continued to write in my journal/ songbook. I felt good about this and today and the party tonight . It really had been a crazy three years and even crazier that it was just starting.
 
FLASHBACK--------------
June; 3 1/2 years ago.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Emerson s POV-
 
It was the first week of Summer and i already missed school. How couldn't I have when its not even noon and my moms already drunk and throwing up. I could only imagine how it would be when my dad got home at 4. For the last 5 weeks, it had been a lot less violent because I had met him.
 
My best friend, Justin. He'd moved in almost six weeks ago at the end of the school year, and he was unavoidable because he just so happened to be my neighbor. So as much as I loved to keep to myself, this boy didn't. I wish he would have because out of nowhere he was everything to me, my escape. Except now that it was summer he would be gone all over the world trying to start his career meaning things would be a lot worse.
 
Specifically June 13th, the day he was leaving.
 
Today.
Today was that day and I felt scared of not knowing what was going to become of me after he left. He didn't know what my dad was like or how much my mom drank but he knew I hated to be home and my parents were always polite around the neighborhood. I think that's pretty much how it goes, you look so functional and normal to the rest of the world when really on the inside its awful.
 
Justin's going away party was in a half an hour and I looked like a wreck. I somehow pulled my self together and took a shower and contained all the emotions i was feeling. That was until I was searching in my closest for my favorite jeans when I heard my name ringing throughout my house.
 
"EMERSON!" His voice continued to shout until i pulled away from my closest and heard the footsteps outside my door. My door slammed open and my dad stood there his face angry.
 
"Dad, you're home early" I stated in disbelief.
"I got a call from the bank, your mother maxed our credit cards out on booze. HOW DOYOU EXPLAIN THIS! THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT! " He voice slowly rose and he was eventually screaming in my face.
 
His hand rose up and he knocked me back with it, when i fell against my dresser i hit my head.
 
"Get up ! You lazy home wrecker. You just had to kill your brother!" He screamed louder and shook me where i stood. As he continued to push and shake and smack me around, i could feel the steady flow of blood coming down my face. Yet the anger never dissolved in his face, but somehow seemed to form into a pleased smirk. That was until the door creaked open downstairs and when the voice called out my dad froze.
 
"Em!" Justin's soft voice called up the stairs.
"Don't move." My dad scowled. Instead of being afraid any more, the whole year i'd lived here I'd been afraid. I was done, so i ran, i ran to Justin.
 
My dad raced after me but i grabbed Justin's hand and ran outside. The door slammed closed and I realized my hand was gripping the knob. Justin was confused until i turned around where his confused stare got worse and he became horrified.
 
I could still hear my dads cursing but ignored it for the moment. I stepped closer to Justin.
 
"Here." He took his shirt off and wrapped it around his hand and dabbed my head.
 
"It's okay." I pushed him away slightly.
"Does this happen alot?" He asked sadly.
"Almost every day, unless my moms too drunk and she takes up his time."
 
When i finally explained everything to him he told his mom as I sat in their kitchen . His eyes beamed as his mom talked but all he did was look at me.
 
"Justin, we have to tell the police, and you need to catch your flight" His mom was talking but he decided to talk over her.
 
"Come with me. You said you write songs, so write songs, for me. I'll sing them, you write them and i can take you away from here, protect you like a best friend should. "
 
His mom stopped talking and i stood up staring at him in disbelief.
 
"Yes. Okay, yes." Was all i managed to get out and he wrapped his arms around me and picked me up gently.
 
Yet, I hadn't told him why all this started. Spencer.
 
END OF FLASHBACK----------------------------------------
 
"Em." Justin rocked my shoulder.
"Hmm.." I mumbled.
"We're home." As I sat up I realized we were home. His grandparents house was lit up with almost every room light on and the front door wide open and the Range Rover was off but warm. Everyone obviously was already in side as well as our stuff, except me and Justin.
 
Although i should of felt at ease because i was safe and home, i didn't. I felt guilty and I needed to talk to Justin to make it go away.
 
"Can we go to your room for a minute" I asked him as he helped me out of the car.
"Uh.. Sure?" His voice was unsteady and curious.
 
When we walked in we hugged and chatted for a few moments. Justin's room was exactly how he'd always left it. I sat down on his bed as he closed the door quietly. His body turned to face me and he sat beside me.
 
"Now I'm not trying to ruin the birthday mood, but I've been feeling guilty for almost 4 yrs now and i need to tell you something." I shuddered nervously.
 
"You're starting to scare me Em"
"Justin, do you know those bad dreams i've been having?" I asked as he looked at me confused but nodded.
"The ones about the shark and then like the end of the world and stuff like that?" He asked.
"I lied." I mumbled.
"About having bad dreams, but why?" His hand grabbed onto mine.
 
"No, not about having them. What there about." I removed my hand and yanked it thought my loose hair.
 
"There about my brother." I finally said after a few long pauses of silence.
 
"You -- you have a brother?"
"I had a brother. " I spoke softly felling like i might cry.
"I'm not following?" He was sincerely concerned and I should have expected that, but really i just wanted him to comfort me as i cried.
 
"Justin when you met me, my dad had just moved us there the year before. The year before that he was arrested for assaulting me and my mother drunk out her mind said something to the cop next door. We had only lived there for 8 or 9 months." My voice was a little shaky but i remained calm enough to tell him the rest.
 
"Okay, i know all this Em. What's this got to do with you having a brother." He asked as he pulled my hand into his again. This time i left it rest there and eventually squeezed it.
 
"Had." I cringed at the word.
"The year before all that started, I had a normal family. My dad was a working machine yeah, and my mom was a little self centered but it didnt bother me too much because i had Spencer. "
 
"You had a brother, named Spencer. Where is he now? Is he like your dad or did he like leave because of how bad it was. What's going on." He sighed frustrated and i began to cry.
 
"Spencer was 15 and he died." I broke down crying. His face crumpled into confusion and heartbreak. He cleared his throat a couple times but didn't speak, instead just held me tight as i cried. His big hand swiped my hair out of my face with one brush and he placed his cool lips on my forehead.
 
I tried to contain myself and sit up straight but i didn't exactly succeed.
 
"Our house caught fire in the middle of the night. My parents were fine, they got themselves out. Spencer even got out safely. " My voice stayed low.
 
"But then how did he--? I cut him off.
 
"I didn't get out. I was hiding under my bed, and Spencer came back in to find me. A piece of wood had fallen through the ceiling and it was hot. Not on fire but hot enough to do this." I rolled my jeans down, low enough for him to see the three burns across my thigh.
 
"They left you inside?" He asked horrified and angered.
" yeah, but not Spencer. Not Spence. He finally got to me and we made it all the way back down the stair and into our great room which was an open aread to the front door.. Thats when the ceiling caved and Spencer--- " I started to shake and cry and my voice barely manage to stay heard.
"Spencer let me down and told me to run. I did, he didn't. He died, I didn't" I cried as Justin gripped his hand through my hair as my head lay in his chest.
 
"Oh god Em" You could hear how he was reviewing it and picturing it in his head.
 
"Jesus Emerson, how are you still standing. If all that you've gone through happened to me, i would have been in a psychiatric hospital or something.
 
"I just felt bad, keeping it from you." I mumbled softly.
"You would. You so would." He chuckled lowly and rubbed my back.
 
"What?" I looked up at him.
"That would be the thing your upset about, everything thats happened and you feel bad because you hid something from me." The way he said it made me think i was being silly.
 
"I love you Em. I don't care what you do, you'll always be my best friend."
 
That seemed to be enough for him. Even when the whole world expected more from me, he was happy with exactly who i was.
 
Before i could say anything more he looked at me in a way i'd seen before but never understood.
 
"Em.." He whispered hoarsely that sent chills up my spine.
 
In a matter of seconds his lips were against mine. It wasn't the kind of kiss you see in movies now a days. Not hot or heavy, but slow and gentle. Don't let that stop you from believing it wasn't the most amazing thing in my entire world. The kind of kiss you feel from your toes to your nose.
 
"Think about it." He smiled and i hadn't realized he was talking and he just chuckled a soft laugh and moved off the bed to the door.
 
Like that, it was over. Like that, it left me wondering what to do with what just happened, what to do with myself.
 
When i regained function of my thoughts, i remembered exactly what i could do. I knew it was the perfect way to make him see what i saw in that kiss.

EMERSONS POV------------------------
 
I groaned in pain, peering my eyes open a little noticing it was dark meaning it was probably still night time. I turned my head to the right to get a peek at me clock before i heard someone speak.
 
"It's 2:37 in the morning" A husky voice boomed,almost causing me to scream. When i turned my head, my face met Justin's who was sitting next to me in a chair.
 
"Jesus Justin! You scared me half to death, what are you doing?" My voice hissed at him. His hand reached up and clicked on my lamp so we could both see each other. Though, his expression confused me he looked angry or highly upset.
 
" Oh Justin, is this about Selena" I asked softly reaching my hand up to his cheek. He brushed his hand across mine before moving my hand.
 
"No, this is about Hunter" His voice was cold and stern causing me to sit up.
 
"Nothing to talk about. Are you sure you're okay?" My question came out a little bitterly as I stood up making my way to the bathroom that was 5 ft away.
 
"I never said i was okay." His voice echoed through the bathroom walls. I closed the door most of the way, washing my face to see all the makeup run off and peeling my clothes off. Sleeping in my clothes was a pet peeve of mine.
 
"Then tell me what's wrong" I suggested.
"This" His voice said closer than before, due to the fact he was standing in the doorway of my bathroom. The door was wide open and my jaw dropped open letting a gasp escape.
 
"Justin, get out. I'm like naked." I swiftly shimmed my sweats on and struggled to get my shirt on as he just stood there.
 
"Justin" I spoke softly.
He didn't speak but he stepped inches away from me. His hand traveled down my belly and lifted my shirt.
 
"Justin" I exclaimed swatting his hand.
 
"What the hell is this?" He demanded.
"It's nothing." I said pushing past him to sit on my bed.
 
" Really? You're going to have the audacity to lie to me right now? Cut the crap, Hunter did this didn't he?" His voice became louder.
 
I nodded my head, it seemed that was all i could manage. My mouth froze, as desperately as i wanted to explain, i couldn't.
 
"I just needed to know for sure, I'm going to kill him.See how he likes being bruised on every inch of his body." He screamed which made me jump a bit, bringing me back to reality.
 
"Justin no! He isn't worth you're career." I pleaded standing up to face him.
 
"My career, I don't give a damn about my music, If i can't protect the one person I promised i would." He moved his hand up to my face and rubbed my cheek with his thumb.
 
"The police are handling it, he'll go to jail. " I assured him placing my hand on his shoulder.
 
"Look what good that did for your dad, he got a year in jail. When i met you, he was right back to doing exactly what he got put in jail for. So Hunter gets booked for a year on Assault charges and then he comes after you?" He shook his head back and forth.
 
"Justin, he's going away for a long time." He just continued to shake his head.
 
"You don't know that. Assault isn't a serious felony for kids his age. " His argument was rather good except he was missing the most important factor.
 
"He's going away for assault and battery and raape." I looked at him as his head shot up, his face read one expression very clearly.
 
Rage.
 
"Are you kidding me? Oh my god, Oh my GOD! how did I let this happen to you! I was so busy with Selena I didn't protect you. He raaped you? I'm going to kill him!" He was shouting as he ripped my door open, revealing our very awake bus mates.
 
Pattie and Kenny looked at each other as Scooter stared at me and Butler was just sitting on the couch rubbing his eyes.
 
"Justin, he's not worth it!" I begged him.
"He raaped you!" He slurred angrily which now caught the attention of everyone on board. I looked down biting my lip in fear.
 
"You didn't tell me that part Em" Kenny hissed at me as Pattie looked at him angrily.
 
"Justin" I pleaded but he had the bus door wide open by now.
 
"Please Jay, just come inside and stay with me. I don't wanna' be alone." I begged, and soon i heard him half groan but sigh. His face turned to meet mine that was in many forms of emotions. Disbelief, Disappointment, Defeat. He took my hands in his and spoke gently.
 
"I swear it.If he doesn't go to jail, He'll go in the ground" He growled in a low cold tone. I nodded my head and grabbed his sides as he embraced me in a tight hug.
 
Needless to say, I spent most of my night explaining what was going on to everyone but eventually got to go back to sleep. Around 4 am we, as in me and Justin headed to my room.
 
When i got under the covers Justin to his seat next to me. I grabbed his hand pulling him up on my bed. I knew i wasn't that strong but Justin let me pull him.
 
Once he was under the blankets next to me he snaked his arms around my waist. I didn't mind, i actually felt a lot of relief knowing he was he and not off somewhere killing Hunter.
 
"I promise Em, I'll never let anyone hurt you again." He whispered softly in my hair.
 
"I know Justin, I know." I hid myself in his neck.
 
I had finally fell asleep, comfortably, for the first time in a long time.
 

March 1st; 5AM:
 
Emerson's POV---------------------------------------
 
I snuck out from underneath Justin's big arms and tiptoed out of the room . My clothes were tucked underneath my arm as i made my way to the kitchen to see Pattie smiling. She was making blueberry waffles for Justin's birthday breakfast. I went to shower in her bathroom so i didn't wake up Justin.
 
Ever since the night i told him about Hunter, he had spent the nights in my room. It made him feel protective and made me feel protected. I made sure to take a quick shower and dress ever quicker. When i finished in the bathroom everyone was in the kitchen laughing. We were on our way to the airport to make it home to Canada for Justin's surprise party. We had about an hour before we got there and Pattie handed me Justin's tray.
 
I jumped on the bed as he groaned moving around.
 
"Wake up sleepyhead" My body leaned over the top of his and my face was hovering right above his. His eyes peered open and he chuckled.
 
"Well Hi?" He kissed my cheek sitting up causing my heart rate to speed up.
 
"Guess what today is!" I smiled happily.
"Hmmm, Groundhog day? " He asked sarcastically.
"No, my very talented best friend's 18th birthday!"
"Hey, I'm fairly handsome as well" He smiled.
 
"Oh so sorry I forgot that part. Happy birthday!" I hugged him cheerfully.
"Thank you. Can you tell me what my surprise is yet?" His voice was curious and i knew he'd try to find out. I didn't know what to get Justin for his birthday so I thought about it all week and I finally figured it out, but it was a surprise.
 
"Oh look we're at the airport. Look Justin, time to go home" I said distracting him as he rolled his eye and handed me the last bite of waffle.
 
"Oh thanks, Love you too." My tone was sarcastic and made him laugh.
 
"I really do love you though Emerson. Never forget that." He smiled escorting me off the plane.
 
My heart was pumping fast and I just wanted him to say the words " I'm in love with you too." Who was I kidding, he was Justin and I was just me.

The next day. February 24th; Noon.
 

EMERSONS POV--------------------------------------------
 
I woke up in a lot of discomfort, but then again what did I expect after i was used as a jerks play toy.
 
When I stood up, the first thing i reached for was my bottle of water and the bottle of Tylenol. That was the only way i was going to make it through this day. I opened my door and seen Justin and Selena laughing eating their breakfast.
 
"Hey sleepyhead" Justin smirked.
"Hey J, Hey Sel" I smiled at them sitting across from them. Justin pushed his plate of waffles towards me and Selena handed me her cup of coffee.
 
"Oh thanks, hand me downs" I groaned playfully.
"Shut up and eat you goof. We still on for tonight?" He asked while playing with Selena's hair. I couldn't help but be jealous, but i liked Selena. She's was good for Justin and good to him.
 
"Yeah, I suppose. " I hesitantly answer to make Justin gasp.
 
"You no love me" He whined, acting hurt. Selena laughed getting off of his lap.
 
"Please, you guys are like Cory and Shawn off Boy Meets World. " She suggested as me and Justin burst out laughing.
 
" I love that show!" I exclaimed as Justin smiled at me.
 
"Hey babe, Hunter just called me. My mom wants us to work on our songs tonight. Is that okay?" She asked worriedly. Selena sure was taking a lot of night calls, normally she reserved nights for her and Justin.
 
"Yeah, were just going to watch movies." He looked at me and made a stupid face that made me laugh.
 
"Good, so I'll see you... tomorrow?" She asked. Justin's face scrunched up into a confused look.
 
"Wait.. You have to leave now?" He asked, clearly upset.
 
"Yeah. She wants us to do some dance stuff and clothing line type things." Her voice came out flat and unsure.
 
"Awww, the whole day." He whined again.
"I'm sorry baby" She kissed his lips softly. Soon she left and it was just me and Justin sitting at the table.
 
"Well I have a few things to do, is that okay" I asked him. He nodded his head grabbing the lucky charms box and sticking his hand into it.
 
"Alright, I'm going to go change. You can go try and write some lyrics in the music room while I'm gone" I encouraged hopefully. He nodded his head in agreement and I went to change.
 
I pulled on a yellow dress that covered all the bruises and was flowy, so i added a small brown belt that matched my cowboy boots.
 
When I walked out Justin was already gone and I could hear the piano in the back room playing softly.
Kenny was already in the car and had agreed to take me to the police station and the hospital to report Hunter.
 
After hours and hours of statements and forms and pictures, they let me go home. I reapplied my makeup to my now, very black eye and adjusted my dress it was going on 7 o'clock. I was right on time getting home but Justins range rover was no where to be found. I turned on the TV to find Disney Channel blaring, and Austin and Ally on. This show reminded me of Justin and I, a lot. I plopped down on the couch with a bag of Doritos waiting for Justin.
 

JUSTINS POV-----------------------------------------
 
I was still pacing the room as Selena came in, completely clothed this time.
 
"Justin." She spoke softly.
"Don't Sel, just don't" I begged her, I was no longer angry, but completely crushed.
 
"Justin, seriously. You can't be hurt when I've been your second choice for months now."
 
On second thought, i was still angry.
 
"What are you even talking about right now. You are the one that CHEATED on me!" I yelled at her causing her to jump a bit.
 
-------- 2hours earlier--------
 
Sitting at home, writing songs, only made me think about Selena and how much I missed her, so I decided I would surprise her with dinner.
 
"Sel, I got you Mexican food" I smiled opening her door, but what I saw, the food clattered to the floor.
 
Selena was half undressed, underneath none other than Zach Porter, lead singer of All star weekend.
 
----End of flashback-----------------
 
"I'm talking about you, you and Em" She groaned sliding to the floor with her head in her hands.
 
"Are you insane.We are best friends, like Shawn and Cory. Remember?" I sat across the hall from her, my knees pulled to my chest.
 
"More like Cory and Topanga" She argued.
I growled and then checked my watch and it was going on 7 o clock. Selena mumbled something i couldn't hear and shook her head.
 
"What was that?"
"Nothing Justin, nothing" She groaned.
"No I want to know what you just mumbled under your breath." I demanded.
"I said, are you late for something. You're late for Emerson, and you're checking your watch. " She stated in a exasperated voice.
 
"So?" I asked confused.
"So, you just walked in me while I was half naked with Zach and you're checking your watch because your late with Em" She explained in disbelief.
"Your point is what, I like to be punctual?" I asked sarcastically, knowing what she was getting at.
 
"Justin you love her and heaven knows she loves you." Selena finally mumbled.
"Selena.." I tailed off.
"Tell me it's not true, honestly." Her voice was calm and I knew then what I should have long before now.
 
" Oh no." I shook my head into my knee. She silently got up and moved next to me.
 
"Justin, we are good at being friends. I do love you, i'm just not madly in love with you like you two are with each other. " Her hand was rubbing mine and I looked up at her.
 
" you could have just told me, you didn't have to let me find out like this Selly" I leaned my head against her shoulder.
 
"You wouldn't have listened any other way, and i never meant to hurt you.I just, Zach's good to me." She smiled at me, and I knew we were done. My watch read 7:05 and Selena nodded at me to go.
 
"Still friends?" She murmured before i stood up.
"Always, next time when you have to tell me something, just say it." We both laughed in agreement.
 
When i pulled into the parking lot of the hotel, i noticed the lights were on in the bus. I checked the time, it was 7:25, and i had already got dinner from Em's favorite Chines place.
 
I opened the bus door and heard loud singing. Emerson was dancing to some song on the TV, very happily if i may add. I didn't say anything, but instead stood and watched her.
 
"You're always on my mind
I think about you all the time
Um, no
Lets not talk about it
Drama: We can live without it
Catch a wave if were bored
Theres a clock we'll ignore
Find a way around it
Hey girl, I can tell there's something
Even when you say it's nothing
When you're playing with your hair
Like you just don't care
It's a tell you're bluffing
Now please don't take this the wrong way
 
I love the things you do
It's how you do the things you love
But it's not a love song, not a love song
I love the way you get me
 
But correct me if I'm wrong
This is not a love song, not a love song
I love the things you do
It's how you do the things you love
The way you sing it put me through it
I guess I always knew it
I love the way you get me
 
But correct me if I'm wrong
This is not a love song, not a love song"
 
I clapped my hands together causing her too jump, once she realized it was me she threw a pillow across the room at me.
 
"You scared me you jerk." She fell back onto the couch. I laughed holding up the food, she sniffed and smiled.
 
"Chinese, okay you're forgiven." She smiled as I sat beside her.
 
"What were you doing anyways?" I asked pulling her food out and handing it to her.
 
" Singing,clearly." Her voice dripped with sarcasm as I shot her a look.
 
" Well, someone was late" She eyed me.
"So I turned on the TV and Austin and Ally was on, this show seriously is our life. She write his songs. and he sings them cause she has stage fright."
 
"Pretty close to our life, does she wear cowboy boots non stop too?" I teased her.
 
"No, i'm unique like that" She grinned at me as she laid back taking a bite of her food.
 
"Or just redneck" I whispered before taking a bite of my own food. Before i could though she punched me in the arm.
 
"Ow" I rubbed my arm in amazement that she could seriously pack a punch.
 
"So are we doing this best friend movie night thing or what?" I asked her as she eyed me curiously.
 
"It's not like you to be late, why are you?"
 
Oh boy.
 
"Well, me and Selena kind of sort of broke up" I mumbled hoping she didn't hear and would drop the subject, no such luck.
 
"What!?" She shouted spitting her juice out.
"Classy, very lady like." I smiled as she shot me a scary look.
 
"I walked in on her half naked with all star weekends lead singer. " I told her before taking another bite of food.
 
"Oh my god, Justin. I'm so so sorry" She clung to my side, and I enjoyed it.
 
"Em, it's okay. We're still friends, neither of us was in love, not madly anyways. Life is too short to not be passionately in love." I smiled at her as her eyes shined with clear tears.
 
"Em, it's okay, seriously." I rubbed her hand gently.
"Still, i'm so sorry. That's terrible and awful." She kissed my cheek softly and I swore I'd never felt anything like it ,ever.
 
"Can we please watch our movies, that's what I need right now." I pleaded as she nodded her head standing up to pop in a movie.
 
"Wild things?" She asked as i smiled at her.
 
We began watching our movie, moving our empty food containers to the garbage and covering ourselves with blankets. Eventually we were tangled up in blankets and one another on the small couch.
 
"I love you Em" I reminded her as she began to drift into her deep sleep. Really, i hadn't thought she heard me, but then again i was usually wrong about her.
 
"I love you too Justin" She mumbled and pressed her head into my chest falling asleep soundly.
 
Once the movie was over I went to move the blankets off the top of us. Emerson's dress was rose up and i could see her purple lace panties and most of her belly. Before i pulled the dress down and thought about her in a dirty form, i noticed deep, thick dark bruises in a hand print shape. There wasn't just one or two, they covered most of her body, that i could see.
 
As I carried her into her room and placed her on the bed, she turned over still clinging to my shirt. I sat beside her bed, my mind raced. This was Hunters doing, I knew it, I just know it was it. Instead of going to find him, I would sit here and wait for her to wake so i could ask her myself.
 
Suddenly, I knew Selena was right, I did love her. I loved her in a way most people would never understand, and it was the simplest form of pleasure and the purest form of torture.

February 23rd; 5 pm. California.
 
Emerson's POV----------------------
 
Justin, Selena and I had been in California for a week or so and the weather made me forget it was the last week of February.
 
Justin had taken Selena on a date before she had to go to work so I was here alone. From time to time Pattie would come in to check on me, but pretended that's not what she was doing.
I was sprawled out on my bed watching Pretty Little Liars, but seeing every episode kind of took the element of surprise out of watching it. To say the least, I was bored. Until my phone beeped loudly on the nightstand and when i rolled over grabbing it i read the name on my screen.
 
Hunter.
 
Hunter: 5:03; Hey babe, come over??
He seemed happy enough today, so I pulled on my black flip flops and shimmied into my jean shorts.
 
Emerson 5:05; Be there in ten(:
 
I shoved my phone into my back pocket and told Kenny where I was going. He told me I wasn't aloud to go unless he took me so I whined for a few moments and then shrugged and gave in. We had hit a bit of traffic so I was running a little late, I ended up arriving at Hunters hotel at 5:30. Knowing he'd be mad, i prepared myself.
 
When I passed Selena's room, I knew Hunters was next. Hunter was Selena's co-writer, meaning he did exactly what I did for Justin, but for Selena. Which is how we met. Thinking about it I forgot i was standing in front of his door. I knocked three times before i heard footsteps and soon enough the door swung open.
 
Hunters face was a solid rock, filled with anger.
 
"You're late" He growled.
"I know, but there was traffic. Kenny wouldn't let me drive myself. " I pleaded as he slammed the door.
 
"Always an excuse" He grabbed my arm, and i could then smell the alcohol pouring off his tongue.
 
"Hunter, this needs to stop." I said coldly ripping my arm out of his hand. This caused him to take a few steps back.
 
"Listen to me carefully, You don't get to decide anything. I tell you when this is over. Got that?" His voice was sharp as he pushed me.
 
"No Hunter, I don't. My dad did this, and I left him. You think i won't do the same to you. Watch me."
I turned around to walk towards the door before he had me on the ground, out of breath and standing over the top of me.
 
"No, you watch" He smiled cockily. This was new, this actually scared me.
 
"Hunter" I pleaded.
"Emerson" He mocked.
 
He slapped me moving off the top of me. When i didn't move he kicked me, causing me to cry out. His arms wrapped around my small frame and threw me on the bed.
 
"Hunter, I'm ending this." I demanded, but he had other plans in store.
 
"actually the funs just beginning" As he tore my jean shorts off my legs. is hand was enclosed over my mouth so I knew, I had to bare through this.
 
Two hours later he got up throwing me my clothes.
"Now we're over" He grinned and walked out
 

I dialed Kenny's number fast and he told me he was still outside, he never left. I didn't bother making myself look nice, I just wanted to go home.
 
When i got downstairs Kenny was standing there waiting for me.
 
"I parked in the garage so it's a little bit of a walk, hope you " Which is when he really saw me as I stood less than 5 ft away from him.
 
"Oh Em." He cooed enclosing me in a hug as i winced in pain.
"We have to tell someone." He begged, Kenny knew Hunter was aggressive but it had never gotten past pushing.
 
"Not tonight, I just want to go home" I began to cry softly into his chest. He picked me up and brought me to the car.
 
"Kenny, you can't tell Justin. Promise me." I begged him as he sat me down.
"Em, We need to tell someone."
"I know, just not Justin. " I restated.
"Fine, I promise" He shook his head getting in the drivers side.
 
I took my mirror out of my bag and fixed myself up. No damage was done to my face except a little bruise under my eye. Nothing make up couldn't cover up. The rest of the bruises were forming on my stomach, chest, and inner thighs. His hand prints were also thick across my arms and on my hips. This was a mess, I was a mess, how did i let it get this far out of hand?
 
Soon enough we pulled into a our hotel and I seen Justin's bus outside. Me & Justin spent most of our time on the bus while everyone else liked the hotel.
 
"I wanna' go back to the bus" I told Kenny as he helped me stand up.
"Justin's in there." He told me cautiously.
"I'm just going to shower and go to bed."
He nodded and helped me to the bus. When I opened the door I heard cartoons. Justin's body was laid across the couch.
 
"Hey there" He smiled happily.
"Hey" I croaked out.
"You're late" He said looking at the clock. I cringed at what he said, reminding me of Hunter.
I checked the clock it was almost 9 and I remember we were suppose to watch movies.
 
"Justin, I'm tired. Can we do this tomorrow night." I said weakly. His face crumpled into a confused look.
 
"sure, are you okay Em?" He asked his voice thick with concern.
 
"Yeah, Just tired." I lied, that was twice in one day. Actually three if you count the one no one asked about, the one i didn't tell about. Being in love with the boy sitting in front of me.
 
"Okay" Justin mumbled not buying it.
"Sorry, tomorrow night I promise." I told him as I headed for my room.
 
"Hey Emerson." He began and paused. I turned to look at him.
"Yeah?" I asked.
"I love you." He reminded me gently.
"I love you too Justin" If only he knew the half of it.
" goodnight" He smiled as I closed my door.
 
All i wanted to do was to take a shower and get Hunter and what he did off of me. I took almost an hour shower, which no doubt Scooter would probably lecture me about in the morning but i really didn't care. When i stepped out the cool air made me shiver as I quickly raked through my hair.
 
Standing in front of the mirror, I seen how bad the bruises were coming along. They were deep shades of purples and blues. Knowing well and good they'd be more black and blue tomorrow, and they'd hurt a lot more than they did now. I popped a few Tylenol and pulled my song book out from underneath my pillow.
 
I continued to write the song no one knew about. This wasn't a song for Justin's records or anything, just something i had been writing.
 
"One word, that's all you said
Somethin' in your voice caused me to turn my head.
Your smile, just captured me
And you were in my future as far as I could see"
 
That's all i had written down as I thought about tonight when I got home. I felt myself growing tired and quickly jotted down a few more lines.
 

"And I don't know how it happened
But it happened still
You asked me if I love you
If I always will"
 
I closed the book and tried to get comfortable. Soon enough I was fast asleep. Away from this terrible day.

Justin's POV-----------------------
 
"Justin it's time to wake up" Selena whispered in my ear kissing my jaw, making me groan rolling over playfully on top of her.
 
"Well hello gorgeous." I smiled down at her meeting her lips for a quick kiss.
 
"So Scooter said you need to meet him in the conference room in ten minutes and you need to start coming up with ideas for new songs today." She explained while rolling out of bed.
 
" So my day is starting off fairly easy, nice"
"Uh, not exactly" Her face complied a sheepish grin.
"Not exactly? C'mon Selly have a little faith, I'll spit some ideas out and be done." Yet she still grinned and patted my shoulder.
 
"You get to wake up Emerson" My face fell as she smirked walking away.
 
Waking Em up was like waking a hibernating bear. Even if i did succeed, it was a deadly after affect and some mean mood. They always did this, left before i woke was forced to wake her up. Luckily,I had figured a few things to make her less cranky.
 

I tiptoed to her bed where she slept, she looked so peaceful. Like nothing was bad, the world was filled with only good.
 
"Em" My voice came out as a whisper.
"Emerson" I rubbed her back softly with one of my hands and pushed the hair out of her face with my free one. She mumbled lightly, stretching out a little.
 
"Emerson, it's time to wake up. We need to go work on writing songs" This time she groaned and pulled the pillow over her ears. I was used to this by now, so I gently slid my hands under her and picked her up. As i cradled her to my chest she groaned slightly.
 

EMERSON S POV---------
When i felt his arms around me i felt like drifting back to sound sleep, but the light was so bright i couldn't. I groaned softly as Justin let out a small chuckle.
 
"That light is very bright" I murmured into his neck.
He shifted my body, shielding my eyes with his chest.
 
"Better?" His voice came out caring instead of his normal sarcastic tone. Justin was always nicest to me in the morning due to the fact i was NOT A morning person, what so ever.
 
I gently nodded my head a few times when he placed me down on the couch.
 
"I have a conference , it shouldn't take long. Sleep here until i get back, and I'll bring breakfast so we can get started ." His voice was close to me and in a soft tone.
 
"Okay" I managed to get out between the yawns.
"Okay"He swiftly kissed my forehead, yet gently. When i heard his footsteps exit down the hall i began to drift back into my sleep.
 
Suddenly, I was back home in Georgia. My mom was in her drunken state,sobbing on the bathroom floor as she puked up whatever contents were left in her stomach. My dad was quickly approaching and he began screaming at me for my mothers drinking and my brothers death. Then i remembered, Spencer. My brother was two years older than I was, making him 14. When our house caught flames my parents looked out for themselves and got out.
 
Spencer got out until her realized I wasn't with them. I was hiding under my bed when he found me. The last thing I remembered was him telling me to run when the flame erupted right before our eyes.
 
I shot up screaming, when no one was around my heart rate began to lower. The fear of having that dream again, cause me to no longer have the desire to sleep. Instead I got up and took a shower. As I peeled my sweats off, i noticed the three burns on my legs. No matter where I went, what I did, who i became, I still couldn't escape this nightmare.
 
When my shower started i quickly washed my hair and got out drying myself off.I rummaged through my closest and pulled a black skirt with a striped black and white shirt out. Tucking my shirt into my skirt and pulling the flip flops out, i began to dry my hair. Naturally it was pin straight so drying it was my easiest option, which usually only took 5 minutes due to how thin my hair was.
 
The last ting i did before exiting my room was putting chap stick on and a little glittery silver eyeshadow that suited my green eyes well.
 
I made my way back to the music room, which was considered mine and Justin rooms. When we were in there we weren't to be bothered.
 
I sat myself down to play piano and pressed a few keys. Justin appeared a few minutes later with two bags in his hands and two cups. The smell was drifting and was phenomenal. His face was in a smile until he seen me, causing him to slant his head and look at me confused.
 
"Bad dream" I said as he sat beside me handing me a bag and a cup.
 
As I peered into the bag I smiled.
"Grilled cheese and ham, and strawberry milk" I rubbed my stomach smiling.
 
"What was your dream about?" He questioned pulling his food out.
 
"I don't even remember, I think it might of been about a shark eating a girl." Lying to him as i bit into my sandwich.
 
"See, I told you we shouldn't of watched Shark Week." He mumbled through his food.
 
"Hunter wanted to" I argued as Justin shot me a disapproving look.
 
Hunter was my boyfriend of two months, and he wasn't the greatest guy in the world. He liked to drink a little too much, and forget he had a girlfriend when he did so. Sometimes he even liked to push me around, not that Justin even knew that or ever would.
 
"Em, why are you even with him. I mean he's" He began to say before I cut him off.
 
"So what idea's have you come up with?" I asked innocently avoiding anymore talk about Hunter.
 
"Well.." He reluctantly began.
"It's the end of February."
"meaning?" I asked.
"Meaning, it's the end of the cold months, the beginning of spring and summer. So we need fun, happy,warm. " His voice was confident as he smiled.
 
" What kind of song?" My voice sounded sleepy.
" No more love songs." He requested.
" Oh because, those don't sell million to millions of teenage girls who worship you or anything." My words were thick with sarcasm. His eye brows raised as he stuck his tongue out.
 
" I just want a fun party song." He finally decided.
"Okay, I think i can work with that."
 
After working for a few hours it was almost noon when Scooter knocked at the door.
 
"Interview in an hour. Go get ready you two."
 
We both looked at each other and groaned, but we both did as he said. I grabbed my phone and my bag as I headed out of my room. Scooter stopped me.
 
"Em?" He questioned nicely.
"Yeah Scooter?"
"Are you wearing those to the interview?" He asked referring to my flip flops.
"Yup" I nodded, popping the 'p'
"Would you consider wearing, i don't know, heels maybe. Carin picked a cute pair out." His voice was eager and full of persuasion.
 
"Nope" I said walking towards the kitchen were Justin was seated messing with his laptop.
 
"Justin, help me out here." Scooter begged as i took a seat across from Justin placing my feet in his lap.
 
"Sorry Scooter, I just got her to change out of her cowboy boots last week. Flip flops is the only thing else she'll wear. " Justin told him honestly. It was true, i always wore cowboy boots. Except last week Justin asked me to switch it up because flip flops were dressier than boots.
 
"It's not like we are going to the Grammy's, I at least wear ballet flats then." I argued. His face crumpled into agreement.
 
"Oh fine." He shrugged hopelessly rubbing his temples. When he left the room me and Justin cracked up laughing. Selena came in kissing Justin and greeting me.
 
"Justin, I have to go to some business deal tonight. I can't make movie night" She said sadly.
"Aw, really? Okay." His face was filled with disappointment.
 
"You, Em and Hunter can still have movie night"
"Actually, Hunter canceled." I told them.
"Em.." Justin warned.
"Em, he's a jerk." Selena spit out.
"He's not, he's just busy. That's okay, we can have best friend night." I assured him.
 
"Sounds like a plan" Justin agreed.