Title: Country Star
By: Rhardin
Characters: Greg, Nick, other
Genres: AU
Rating: R
Warnings: drug use
Note: Beta'd by Scarletfbl and Donna, thanks so much my dears.
Summary: Nick is a big time Country Star who's life is no longer in his contol. He is trapped by Justin and Amy. Justin doesn't have time to watch him 24 hours a day so he rents him someone to help out.

***

Nick looked around the room. His eyes wouldn't focus on anything in the room. It was spinning wildly. He was sure there were other men in the room with him, because he could hear voices all around him. He wiped the sweat off his forehead and placed his hand on his stomach. It hurt. He was hungry. He couldn't remember the last time he'd been given any food to eat.

"Did you give him his pills yet?" a man's voice asked. Nick gazed in the direction he heard the voice coming from. He couldn't make out anything. He tried blinking a few times and rubbed his eyes.

"I don't know, check the book," said a different voice. Nick looked around. Why couldn't he see? What did Justin give him to help calm him down? Nick put one hand over his face then placed his pinky in his mouth, starting to chew on it.

"Fuck, I can't find the stupid book!" the second voice shouted.

"He acting like he hasn't had them, just give him the pills," the first voice said.

Nick felt someone touch him.

"Hmm. I--" Nick tried to say. He knew Justin gave him some pills already and he shouldn't take any more. He tried to speak again but nothing would come out.

"Shhhh Nick. Here, take these. They'll make you feel better." The second voice was in front of him now.

Nick glanced down. He could see a hand in front of him with three pills, waiting for him to take.

"Nicky come on, take the pills. You know Justin will be upset if you don't," the voice tried to convince him.

Nick took the pills from the hand and placed them in his mouth. Then he felt someone lift a bottle of water to his lips. Nick swallowed both the water and the pills obediently, choking a little in the process. He put his hand over his mouth and forced the pills and water to go down, coughing a few times.

"You dumb shit! Why did you give him three at the same time? Are you trying to kill him?"

"Where's Amy?" Nick slurred out. "I need Amy," he said trying to stand up.

"Now Nicky, you need to sit still," he heard.

"No. I wanna talk to Amy," Nick said standing up. He took a few steps and then crumpled to the ground. The two men in the room scrambled to help him up.

"Oh shit, Justin's going to kill us." Nick felt hands on his legs, and arms went around his waist.

"Calm down, I don't think he hurt himself," he heard. Nick was lifted off the ground and led over to the couch. He was sat down, but laid down on his back and placed his arm over his face. The light was hurting his head.

"Shit, turn the lights down," he heard.

"I need Amy," Nick moaned, not moving.

"Nick, Amy is out of town remember? Her husband's aunt passed away. She won't be back for a few more days."

"Who are you?" Nick asked moving his hand. He still couldn't focus on anything.

"I'm Steve. Justin asked me to help you out today. The other man is Roger."

"Where is Justin?" Nick need to talk to someone besides these men. He didn't know who they were.

"He's out trying to get you the same radio station for tomorrow."

"Oh no, I can't go on the radio. I can't see," Nick said, his words coming out very slowly.

"What do you mean you can't see?" Steve asked, feeling panic run up his spine.

"Oh shit..." Roger said in a weak voice. "I found the book."

"Hmm. I, ahh. Oh shit..." Nick moaned, feeling the pills over take his body.

"Justin gave him his pills an hour ago."

"Oh God! Should we call 911?" Steve asked, warily looking at Nick. He was very pale and his body seemed to be shaking.

"Fuck, I don't know. Justin is going to fire us, man. Just don't tell him we did it."

"What if dies, man? He could be overdosing! I have no clue what Justin gives him anyways," Steve almost shouted.

"Just tell him you found him like that. He'll think Nick took the pills on his own. I can't go to jail for killing Nick Stokes," Roger rambled, moving closer to the country singer. "Maybe he's just asleep."

"Why didn't you check the fucking book?!"

"You should always check the book when you are working with Nick. You were both told that."

The two men turned to see Justin standing in the doorway. "Justin," Steve said, going cold.

Justin walked past the two men and over to Nick. "You gave him more pills." Justin's voice was calm scaring the men even more than if he was yelling at them.

"Hmm," Justin said flipping back through the pages. "When is the last time you fed him?" he questioned, as if Nick was some kind of animal.

Both men looked at each other. "Did we write--" Steve stopped.

"I see something on Tuesday. It's Friday gentlemen, I really hope you gave him something to eat since then," Justin said placing the book down. He walked over to Nick and grabbed his wrist. He seemed to be checking his pulse. The other men just looked at each other. "Hmm. Well, thanks for all your help," Justin said, ice in his voice. "Get out before I have Butch kick you both out." The two men grabbed their things as fast as they could and headed out the door.

"It wouldn't be a problem if you didn't force so many drugs down him," Roger said roughly before leaving the room.

Justin looked up, but decided to let them go. It wasn't worth it. He pulled out his cell-phone, dialing a familiar number. "Amy, it's me."

"Oh God, what did he do now?" she asked.

"Nothing, the aides didn't work out. I let them go," Justin said, again taking Nick's wrist into his hand.

"What happened?" she questioned as she ran a brush through her long black hair.

"They overdosed him on his pills and haven't given him anything to eat in a few days."

Amy stopped brushing her hair. "Oh God, is he ok?" she asked, standing up, worry apparent in her voice.

"Well, I'm not leaving his side until he wakes up. I think he's asleep. I'm checking his pulse and all that so just relax honey."

"Dammit! I'm gone for a week and all Hell breaks loose," she said, raising her voice. "Justin, what are you going to do?"

"I'll just have to hire someone else until you get back," he replied. "Got anyone in mind?" He pulled a chair up next to the couch.

"You know he doesn't like strangers being around," she murmured, thinking out loud. "Well, there's this guy. I've used him before. But he's not a nurse aide. Nick likes him though. He's very relaxed around him."

"What? A male whore?"

"Nick was lonely and horny, so I called a number. He's a cute kid. Don't freak Justin, but he's got a baby face. He's old enough though. This guy showed up and after he spent the night with Nick, he was so relaxed. Almost like his old self."

"Amy, don't go there, ok?" Justin requested.

"Sorry, but I'm giving him a call and seeing if he can come by."

"Have you used him more than once?"

"Yeah, quite a few times actually. Like I said, Nick likes him."

"And you never told me this?" Justin asked, surprised.

"I didn't think I needed to! My job is to keep Nick as sane as I can and this helps. So I'm just doing my job," she said, biting her nails.

"He won't steal from him or hurt him? Just some huge bruise on his arm or face and make me come up with some story, huh?" he asked.

"No, he's a good kid. In fact, I don't think Nick's had sex with him. He just likes having him around," she said into the phone as she paced around the room.

"Well, he's your brother," Justin said. "Make the call and let me know so I can have Butch look out for him."

"Ok I will," she said and hung up the phone. She placed her hand on her head.

"Nick ok?" She turned to her husband.

"No," Amy sighed. "The aides Justin had gave him too many pills and haven't given him anything to eat in a while." Her husband placed his hands on her shoulders.

"Why do you let Justin do this to him?" Connor asked.

"And what? Give up all that we have? Justin pays me a lot of money to look after Nick."

"But honey, do you even know what he's giving him?" he asked.

"Connor don't start, ok? I have a hard enough time as it is. I don't need you adding to my guilt." She sighed again, standing up.

'I wouldn't let some producer drug the fuck out of my brother, no matter how much money he paid me,' Connor thought as he watched his wife dig thought her purse. She pulled out a card, picked up the phone, and walked out of the room.



Greg lifted his head off the bed. He rubbed his eyes a few times hearing his phone. He felt around for it half-blind, his hand finally colliding with it.

"Hello?" His voice was gravely with sleep.

"Is this Greg?"

"Yeah," he replied.

"Hello, it's Amy Stokes."

Greg sat up slowly.

"What are the next few days like for you?" She asked.

"I'm not busy at all," he said. It had been a very slow week. He closed his eyes.

"How would you like to make 10,000 dollars?" she asked.

Greg mouth dropped. "Are you fucking with me?"

"No, I need someone to be with Nick. I'm out of town and I know he really likes you."

"10,000 dollars for a week," Greg said, shock apparent in his voice.

"Yeah, you need to be with him at all times. Do whatever he wants you to do, like you normally do, but for a lot longer."

"Yeah sure. When do you need me?" he asked, getting out of bed.

"Right away," she said letting out a whoosh of breath in relief.

"Ok," Greg agreed. He wrote down where she told him to go and hung up the phone. He packed some clothes into an overnight bag. He couldn't believe this was happening to him. It had to be his lucky day.



"Oh thank God!" Justin exclaimed as Nick opened his eyes. Nick moaned and rolled onto his side.

"Oh God," he cried out.

"Here, take his," Justin said. Nick took the pills from him and swallowed them.

"It will help with your headache," Justin said helping Nick sit up.

"The room is spinning," Nick whispered weakly.

"It will help with that too," Justin assured. "I fired you aides. Then I called Amy. She said she knew of someone that you would like to have around."

"Greg," Nick said placing a hand on his head and scrunching his eyes closed. "Can you talk a bit softer?"

"Yeah. And yes, it's Greg, He's coming over now. He'll be spending the week with you until Amy gets back." Justin stood up.

Nick smiled a bit.

"Come on, let's get some food in you." He held out his hand. Nick placed his hand in Justin's and let himself be pulled up.

"I did you a favor," Justin said helping Nick make his way out of the room. They entered the kitchen. "I got breakfast."

Nick sat down in front of the plate of food. He took a bite and looked up at Justin.

"It's ok, eat it all," he said sitting next to him.

"What time is it?" Nick asked after a few bites.

"It's 4:30."

"AM or PM?" Nick asked.

Justin smiled. "PM. And it's Thursday"

Nick nodded and took another bite. The food tasted so good. It was rare the Justin let him eat this much. He wasn't going to let it go to waste or give him time to change his mind.

"Want some coffee?" Justin asked.

Nick only nodded.

"Take you time, I'm not going to take it away from you," he chastised, guessing why Nick was eating so fast. Nick slowed down when Justin said this. After a bit, he pushed the empty plate away and took the coffee cup in both hands. They shook just a bit. Nick wanted more but knew better than to ask. He was lucky to just get that much.

"Where is this friend of yours? I've got shit to do," Justin said.

Nick looked down at his cup. He still felt very dizzy. "What day is it?" he asked, rubbing his head.

"Thursday. You got a radio show tomorrow morning at 8, so don't stay up too late," he warned, standing up.

"What time is it?" Nick asked.

Justin looked at him. "A bit after 5 PM."

"Justin, he's here!" Butch shouted.

Nick looked up. He smiled and slowly stood up. The floor seemed to move out from under him.

"Nick, sit down. I'll get him."

Nick sat down and placed his head in his hands, watching Justin leave the room.

"You must be Greg." Justin looked the young man up and down. He was thin and had light brown hair. He wore a black dress shirt and a pair of very tight leather pants. Justin couldn't believe that Nick was into that stuff. "You are older than 18, aren't you?"

"Yeah, I'm 25."

"Look, I'm sure Amy trusts you and all, but do not have sex with him until I get you tested," Justin said with a hint of disgust.

"I'm clean, but you can test me if you want," Greg said setting his bag down, seeming unfazed.

"You know to keep you mouth shut. You better not go to the press or anything like that."

"Don't worry, I won't," Greg assured Justin.

"I have a few rules," Justin started.

"Amy went over them already. I'm not to leave any marks, I'm not to leave him alone, I'm not to give him anything to eat, don't give him anything to drink, don't go out of the house with him, no sex until I get tested, and I'm not to give him any pills," Greg said, taking a deep breath.

"If you break any of the rules, you will not be paid one cent," Justin told him.

Greg nodded. He normally would tell this guy to go fuck himself and leave, but 10,000 bucks for a week was too hard to pass up. Greg could really use the money. He was very behind on all his bills.

Justin again looked him up and down. "He's in the kitchen. He's a bit dizzy. The last guys that were here gave him too many pills. They didn't check the book. So now I'm giving him all his pills," he said. "So stay close to him. I don't want him to fall and hurt himself."

Greg just nodded again. Justin walked out of the room and Greg went into the kitchen.

Nick had his head down on the table.

"Nick," Greg said softly. Nick lifted his head and smiled as Greg walked over to him and sat down. Nick reached out and Greg took his hand, smiling back.

***

"Greg, I'm so glad you're here," Nick said weakly.

Greg nodded. It broke his heart to see Nick this way. Greg held Nick's hand tightly in his own.

"You should lie down," Greg said softly. Nick looked so pale and his eyes were bloodshot. Greg could see his whole body shaking.

"What time is it?" Nick asked, looking down.

"It's a bit after 5," Greg said. "Let's go in the other room so you can relax," Greg repeated standing up. Nick attempted to stand. Greg reached down and helped him up.

"I'm so dizzy," Nick said, leaning on Greg.

"Don't worry, I've got you," Greg said, taking a few steps. He was supporting most of Nick's weight as they walked into the bedroom. As they entered the room, Nick's legs went out from under him and both men fell to their knees.

"Oh, fuck," Nick said, now crawling to the bed. Greg helping his so he didn't fall over. Once he reached it, he pulled himself up on to it. Nick put his hand over his mouth. Greg looked around the room. He spotted a trashcan and rushed over to get it. He ran over to Nick and placed it under his head. Greg turned away as Nick lost everything in his stomach.

"Oh, shit," Nick cried out, falling to the bed. Greg sat the trashcan on the floor and again got up. He stood over Nick. He reached down and pulled off his boots, setting them under the bed. Next, he unhooked his belt and pulled it off.

"Could you lift yourself up so I can get your pants off?" Greg said softly, not wanting to sound like he was ordering Nick around. Once Greg unbuttoned and unzipped them Nick raised himself up and Greg slid his jeans down and tossed them on the floor. Nick's shirt was also removed. Nick rolled on his side placing his arm over most of his face.

"I whaa my," Nick tried to say.

"Shh, you just rest, we can talk tomorrow," Greg said, getting up and going into the restroom. He found a washcloth and ran it under the hot water. He wrung it out and walked back over to Nick. He ran the rag over Nick's forehead and down each side of his face, then under his neck and across his chest. He did this over and over. Each time Nick would try to say something Greg would nod, not understanding anything he tried to tell him.

Once the rag was cooled off, Greg went into the restroom to warm it up. He sat next to Nick moving the rag over his face very slowly. Nick's eyes were half closed now, but his breathing was still very fast. Greg wondered what drugs were running through him right now and if he was in danger and should be at the hospital instead of here. Greg set the rag on the nightstand and touched Nick's forehead. He felt as if he was on fire. Greg again looked around the room. He got up and opened the window a bit and found a fan in
the corner of the room. He guessed it wasn't the first time this had happened to Nick. He moved the fan close to the bed and turned it on him. Nick nodded softly as the cool air hit his body.

Greg took a deep breath and removed his boots setting them next to Nick's. He slid down his leather pants, tossing them to the floor. He walked over to his bag and pulled out a pair of black shorts and slid them on. Greg carefully got back on the bed. Nick seemed to be asleep now. His eyes were shut and his body was barely shaking now.

Greg looked him over. He looked a lot thinner than the last time they were together. Greg could easily see his collarbone and count each one of Nick's ribs. He was a lot paler as well. He had dark circles under his eyes and his arms had bruises on them. Bruises that one could only get from a needle. Greg noticed something else new, three scars about half an inch apart going across Nick's left wrist. Greg closed his eyes placing his hand over his own wrist, squeezing it, as if he was trying to hide his own scars. They were barely noticeable, you had to look very hard to see them. They had faded over the last 10 years. Nick's seemed much fresher, it had to have happened in the past year. Had it been that long since he was with Nick?

Greg opened his eyes and again looked at Nick. He placed his hand on his forehead once again. He got the rag and again got it wet but this time he used cold water. He laid it in place then lowered himself down to the bed. He lay on his side, never taking his eyes off Nick's chest, fearing it may not rise again. He watched it go up and down much too fast for someone that was sleeping.


The only time he took his eyes off him was to refresh the rag and he did that as fast as he could, almost running back and forth.

---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ----------------------

Justin walked away from the door. He grabbed his jacket and pulled out his cell phone.

"Amy, I love you," Justin said.

"I guess he's working out," she said, walking outside. "See, I told you Nicky liked him."

"Well, I still don't trust him but it's a start," Justin said.

"I just got a call from Author, Nicky's record has already sold 4 million copies," she said.

"Are you fucking kidding me?" Justin almost shouted.

"No, I'm not," she said, placing a finger in her mouth.

"Amy, we have to tour," he said, pushing this wallet and keys into his jacket pocket.

"Justin, I've been thinking. Maybe we could do a local concert here and see how he does."

"What are you thinking?" he asked.

"Well, like I said Greg can get Nick to do almost anything. He, ahh... knows what to do. Maybe if we have Greg there we could pull it off," she said, now chewing on her finger.

"What? You said they never had sex," Justin snapped.

"I never said sex, he just gives him a bl..."

"Okay, okay, god shut up, your bother is a freak. I don't wanna know what he does to him but if it gets him on the road I'm all for it," Justin said.

"Maybe we could..."

"Amy, don't start, you know this is the only way. Nick can't deal with this kind of life without the drugs. Do you really wanna go back to working in the bar wearing that little thing?" he said, walking outside.

"No, it's just starting to wear on..."

"AMY," Justin yelled into the phone. There was a long pause.

"So you wanna rent your brother a hooker boyfriend for the road," Justin said, laughing a bit.

Amy looked down at the ground.

"Just talk to Greg and see if he'd be willing to do it," she said.

Justin again laughed. "Okay, will do. I'm off to get more drugs for our boy," he said, hanging up the phone.

Amy dropped the phone and placed her hands over her face.

"I can't believe you guys are doing this," Connor said.

"You like that Corvette and nice huge house with a pool on the lake," Amy snapped, turning away from him. Conner walked over and put his hands on her hips.

"I'm sorry," he said, kissing her check. "But aren't you afraid once the fog lifts from over him you're going to lose him?"

"I've already lost him," she said, pulling away and walking inside.

---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ----------------------

Nick slowly opened his eyes and groaned. He jumped a bit feeling something moving next to him.

"Greg," he said. "You're still here," Nick said a bit louder them he planned.

Greg rolled on his side. He forced his eyes open and looked up at Nick who was now sitting up.

"I thought they would have made you leave," he said, putting his feet onto the floor.

"No, I'm here for the week," Greg said. Nick looked back at him and smiled. He slowly got up and took a few steps. He'd stopped trying to catch his balance. He slowly made his way to the restroom. Greg rolled over and looked at the clock.

1:45 am. He sighed, wondering if he should go check on Nick. He rolled onto his back and started to sit up but stopped when Nick walked back into the room.

"I'm so glad you didn't leave. I've missed you," Nick said, getting back into bed.

"I've missed you, too," Greg said, placing his hand on Nick's face. He felt much cooler to the touch now.

"A week," Nick said.

"A week, but I'll stay as long as you want me to," Greg said, knowing there was no way he was leaving him this time. He didn't want to go the last time but Amy and some huge guy had other ideas. Not this time. Greg wasn't leaving without him.

"Really?"

"Really, really," Greg said, smiling.

Nick smiled, then looked around the room. "What time is it?" he asked, closing his eyes.

"It's almost 2, you have a radio thingy tomorrow at 8."

"Hmm," Nick said moving a bit closer to Greg. Greg again watched Nick breathe. But now his breathing was normal. His chest was rising and falling much slower. Greg closed his eyes and fell asleep.

---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ----------------------

BEEP BEEP BEEP

Greg rolled over and felt around for the alarm clock. He pushed a few buttons but it didn't stop.

BEEP BEEP BEEP

"Okay, I'm up," Greg yelled, now hitting it a few times. "Shut up." He pushed a few more buttons but nothing seemed to make it stop. He felt the cord and grabbed, it unplugging it.

"Finally," he said rolling over. Nick still had his eyes closed.

"What time is it?" he asked.

"Too early," Greg whined as Nick sat up.

"What am I doing today?"

"A radio show," Greg said, now remembering how often they had to repeat things to him. Nick walked over to the dresser. Greg looked at the pile of clothes Nick was heading for. He wondered when Justin put them there, knowing they weren't there when they fell asleep.

"Good morning," Justin said, walking into the room. "You look so much better, Nicky. I'm so sorry about the aides. It won't happen again," he added, holding out a hand full of pills.

"Will Greg be staying with me?" Nick asked, taking the pills.

"Yeah, for a week at least," Justin said. "Hop in the shower, put these on and we'll head off to the radio station."

Nick nodded and picked up the clothes and headed into the restroom.

"Greg, could I talk with you?" Justin asked.

"Wait, no, you said he was staying with me," Nick said, walking back into room.

"Go shower, he'll be in here when you're done," Justin said, pointing. Greg closed his eyes, running his hands over his face. Nick returned to the restroom. Justin walked out of the room and Greg got up. He picked up his pants and slid them on over his shorts. He walked into the kitchen.

"Coffee?" Justin said as someone Greg had never seen before handed him a cup.

"Thanks," he said, sitting down.

"Look, you know Nick is pretty fucked up. He's got some kind of social phobia and anxiety issues," Justin said.

Greg nodded.

"But you work well with him. He likes you and I hear you can get him to do almost anything," Justin went on. "Nick's albums are tearing it up and we need to go on tour. I don't have a lot of time to bullshit with you. Amy doesn't think we can do it without you. So would you be willing to go on the road with him?"

"Yeah," Greg said, standing up.

"Good, what kind of money are we talking about?"

"I'm sure you'll be fair," Greg said, walking out.

Justin smiled. "Maybe he's not so bad after all."

"He's still a fucking whore," someone said.

Justin laughed. "I can't believe Amy got him a whore. I wish my sister would do that for me."

Greg sat on the edge of the bed waiting for Nick to finish his shower. He looked down at the floor. Getting Nick away from this hell wasn't going to be easy. Even if Nick wanted to leave, Greg knew he was hooked on whatever Justin gave him. Getting him off the drugs would take some work. Greg knew it was the only thing that got Nick through the day. It wasn't going to be easy. For now he'd sit back and watch and wait. Wait for the right time. He'd have to get a plan together. First, he needed to know what Justin gave him. He ran his fingers through his hair and placed them on his knees.

***

Greg looked up as Justin and another man walked into the room. The man set a case down next to Greg and opened it.

"Greg, this is Nathan. He's going to take some of your blood," Justin said. Greg nodded and looked away as Nathan took his arm and cleaned a spot. He closed his eyes, feeling the prick in his arm.

"Don't like to look at blood?" Justin asked.

Greg shook his head but kept his eyes closed.

"I hope you come back clean, I'd hate to make you leave. Nick seems to like you a lot," Justin said.

"There, all done," Nathan said, putting a Band-Aid on Greg's arm. Greg opened his eyes and looked back at the two men.

"I think your watch is broken," Justin said, looking down at it.

Greg put his hand over it and stood up. Justin again looked him up and down.

"Not much to you is there?" he said, guessing Greg didn't weigh much more than Nick. Only his bones weren't as noticeable as Nick's.

"I've always been thin," Greg said, stepping away from them. He walked over to his bag and removed some clothes.

"Is everything you own black and leather?" Justin asked.

"Yeah, is that a problem?" Greg asked, looking down at his watch. It said 77.

"Well, you two are going to look funny together. You dressed in black and leather and Nick in his country best," Justin said.

"You sure know how to pick 'em," Nathan said. Greg turned and looked at both men.

"Oh, no, I didn't pick him. Amy found him," Justin said, walking out of the room, Nathan close behind him.

Greg put on a shirt and walked out.

"You should really sit with Nick, that's what I'm paying you for," Justin said, sitting down.

"I need something to eat," Greg said.

"You can wait until Nick gets to the radio station. He'll freak out if you're not in there when he gets out of the shower," Justin said, pointing to Nick's room.

"I need something to eat," Greg repeated, taking a few steps into the kitchen.

"You are really pushing it, fuck boy," Justin said, standing up.

"It's Greg," he said, looking in the fridge. He pulled out an apple and started to walk out of room.

"Fine, Greg, I don't want you to eat in front of him," Justin said as Greg took a bite out of the apple. Greg heard the water turn off and tossed the apple in the trash. Greg walked into the bedroom.

Nick stepped out of the shower. He reached for a towel and slowly dried himself off. He wrapped it around his waist and walked back into the living room. Greg looked at Nick.

Nick smiled and walked over to his dresser.

"I don't think Justin likes me much," Greg said, watching Nick remove a pair of underwear and socks.

"Hmm, Justin doesn't like anyone," Nick said, leaning on the table.

"You okay?" Greg asked.

"Yeah, just dizzy," Nick said. "You'd think I'd be used to it by now." He turned and walked back into the restroom.

"Justin wants you to wear this."

Greg turned, seeing some woman holding a pair of tan dress pants and a light blue shirt. She set it on the bed and walked out of the room.

Greg laughed aloud as he looked at the clothes. "No fucking way," he said, tucking in his shirt. He walked into the restroom. Nick was dressed now and was looking in the mirror.

"You don't have to wear that if you don't want to," Nick said.

"Good, I don't do that shit out there," Greg said, making a face. Nick smiled and they walked out of the room.

"I could really piss Justin off and put on some eye liner and mascara," Greg said, smiling. He again glanced down at his watch as he and Nick walked into the kitchen. A lady handed Nick a cup of something as he sat down.

"I'll be right back," Greg said. Nick looked up and watched Greg leave the room.

Greg walked into the bedroom and opened his bag. He pulled out a small bag and walked into the restroom. He looked around and pulled out a syringe. He lifted his shirt and closed his eyes sticking the needle into his stomach. The room seemed to spin and he placed his other hand on the counter helping keep his balance. He pulled it out and wrapped it in some toilet paper. He tossed it into the trash and took in a few deep breaths. He headed back into the kitchen.

Nick smiled as Greg entered the room and sat down next to him.

"Did he just smile?" a young lady said.

"Wow, I've never seen that before," the other one added. "Oh, no, that's not what Justin wants you to wear," she added with fear in her voice.

"It's what I want him to wear," Nick said, placing his hand on his head. Greg took his other hand.

"Is that okay, I mean, I've never..."

"It's fine," Justin said, walking into the room. Justin looked at Nick then at Greg.

"He's dizzy," Greg said, not looking away from Nick.

"Oh, fuck," Justin said. "Nick, you gotta get it together man, I need you to do this for me."

"I'm okay," Nick said, his voice shaky. "Except I don't remember what I'm going to do."

"A radio show," Justin yelled. "Fuck, I don't have time for this, fucking aides, I'm going to kill them."

Nick looked away from Justin.

"Oh, shit, Nick, I'm sorry. It's not your fault. I'm just worried. You gotta do this show for me. You think you could do that? Greg will be coming with us," Justin said, much softer now. He sat next to Nick.

"Yeah," Nick said, rubbing his face.

"You sure we should try this Justin?" one of the ladies said.

"I'm okay," Nick said slowly.

Justin slammed his hand down on the table. "God dammit," he said, standing up.

"Justin, I'm okay," Nick said, getting up. He took a step forward and almost fell. Greg caught him. "I'm sorry," Nick cried out.

Greg looked up at Justin. Justin started pacing.

"Justin, please I'm sorry, I'm so sorry," Nick cried out. "I can do this," again he tried to stand. He got up with the help of Greg.

Justin looked at his watch. "It's 6:45, get him something to eat, maybe that will help," Justin said, walking out of the room.

Nick sat down and put his hands over his face. "Oh, god," he cried out. Greg watched as the two ladies ran to find something for Nick to eat.

"Nick, calm down," he said, moving close to him. "You didn't do anything wrong, you shouldn't be upset," Greg said softly. He pulled him close.

"I'm just... I can't... oh my head," Nick went on saying.

Greg placed his hand on Nick's head. "You just need to eat something," Greg said softly. Greg watched as the girls placed a bowl of oatmeal in front of Nick.

"Is that for me?" Nick asked.

"Yeah, just eat it slowly," Greg said as Justin walked back into the room. Nick stopped eating when he sat down.

"Nick, it's okay, eat up, you'll feel a lot better." Justin said. picking up a cup of coffee that one of the girls set in front of him. Nick finished the bowl and pushed it away.

"Can I have..." Nick started to say but stopped himself. He put his hand on his face.

"Okay, lets get this show on the road," Justin said, standing up. Nick looked up at Justin.

"Is Greg coming with us?" he asked.

"Yeah, he is, let's go rock and roll," Justin said, walking out of the room. Greg held Nick's hand.

"I'm okay," Nick said. "I feel better," Greg nodded but didn't let his hand go. They walked out and got into the limo.

"This is nice," Nick said, looking around.

"Only the best for you, Nicky, only the best for you," Justin said, smiling. Greg moved close to Nick.

"You ever been in a limo before?" Justin said, looking at Greg.

"Yeah, I have," Greg said, looking back at him.

Nick leaned back in the seat. He closed his eyes.

"Nick, you holding it together?" Justin asked.

"Yeah, I'm fine," Nick said, rubbing his eyes.

"Sir, we are pulling up to the radio station."

"Okay, Nick."

"Sir, you should know something."

"What the fuck is it?" Justin shouted.

"Sir, there is quite a large group of people waiting in front of the radio station."

"Oh, fuck turn the radio on," Justin said.

"That's right, ladies. I am not lying. Nick Stokes is going to be here live in less than 10 minutes," the DJ said over the air.

"Oh, fuck, he wasn't supposed to do that," Justin yelled as the limo stopped.

"Sir, what should I do?"

Justin and Greg both looked at Nick. He eyes were open wide and what little color he had had left his face. His hands where shaking. Greg took Nick's hand.

"I... I... I" Nick started. He could hear his name being chanted outside.

"Nick, listen to me, you can't back out now, you have to go on the air," Justin said.

"Sir, the light is green what should I do?"

"Fuck, go around the block again," Justin yelled.

"I am so excited ladies, Nick rarely does any interviews. And I'm one of the lucky few to get him to come on the show."

"Turn that off," Justin yelled.

"I think you're making it worse by yelling," Greg said, holding both Nick's hand.

"You said no one would know and... no one would be here," Nick said, his voice very weak.

"Fuck, now you remember what I say," Justin snapped.

"Is there a way in the back?" Greg asked.

Justin looked at him. "You may be worth something after all," Justin pulled out his cell phone.

"Yeah, Max, I'm not very happy. You swore to me that you wouldn't say anything on the air until I got Nick inside the building. There is a bunch of people out by the doors."

"Yeah, sorry about that, you know me," Max said.

"Well, if there isn't a back way in you can forget about it. I'll put him on another show," Justin said.

"You do that, I trash Nick on the air," Max said.

"You really think that is a smart thing to do?" Justin said.

Nick was breathing very hard now and was covered in sweat. "No one should be here," Nick mouthed.

"You know what, forget it," Justin said. "I'll just call your boss and tell him what you did."

"The code for the employee's parking lot is 234, no one will be there," Max said.

"That what I thought," Justin said and hung up the phone.

"See, Nick we are going in another way. You don't have to face all those fans."

"No one will be there," Nick said.

"No, it's going to be okay," Justin said. "Here, take this," he pulled something out of his pocket and put the pill in Nick's mouth.

Greg looked down. "Keep your mouth shut," he told himself over and over as Nick swallowed down whatever Justin gave him.

"Okay, take a few deep breaths and pull it together," Justin said as the limo came to a stop. "I'll get out first," Justin said, looking at Greg. Justin got out and shut the door. The driver got out of the car as well.

He pulled out his phone.

"Yeah, Jim, I'm not very happy, here I am doing you a huge favor getting my boy on your dying radio station and your stupid little DJ tells the world about it," Justin said.

Greg lifted Nick's chin and pulled him close.

"I can't do this," Nick said with a look of fear on his face.

"You need to relax," Greg said, kissing Nick's neck. Nick closed his eyes as Greg moved his hands down Nick's chest. He slid his hands down into Nick's pants. "I'm here to help you get through this."

"Hmm," Nick moaned as Greg moved him around.

"Do you need more?" Greg whispered in his ear. He again kissed Nick's neck.

Nick nodded his head and Greg unzipped his pants and slid down his jeans and underwear. Greg took Nick in his hand and slowly ran his hand up and down. He tightened his grip just a bit as he reached the tip.

Nick raised his arms and placed them on the roof the limo. Greg took Nick in his mouth and licked him up and down. Nick bit his bottom lip as Greg took most of him in his mouth. He slowly moved his mouth up and down the length of Nick's cock, slowly at first, then going a bit faster. Nick dug his nails into the top of the roof and leaned his head back.

"Oh, fuck" Nick called out. It didn't take him long to cum in Greg's mouth, Greg taking it all down. He rose up and helped Nick pull his pants up. Greg was surprised that Nick could even get hard with all the shit Justin gave him. He lowered Nick down to the seat. Nick was breathing hard. Greg smiled and took his hand.

"Let's go," Greg said softly and opened the door.

"You are so fucking lucky I'm letting him do this," Justin said. "But I want Quinn to do the interview or we won't go on."

"You got it," Jim said. "And don't worry, Max will pay for what he did."

"I hope so, I get tons or requests a day for Nick to go on people's shows, and remember I'm doing this to help save your ass."

"Trust me, I know," Jim said.

"I gotta go," Justin said as Nick and Greg got out of the car.

"All set?" Justin asked.

"Yeah," Nick said, taking Greg's hand in his.

"Nick, you can't do that in front of people," Justin said.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Nick said, dropping Greg's hand. Greg sighed and followed them inside.

***

Greg watched as Justin led Nick around the station like he was some kind of puppy or something.

"Nick, this is Quinn, he will be doing the interview with you," Justin said.

Nick smiled and shook Quinn's hand.

"We've been friends for a very long time," Justin said, smiling.

"You are so lucky," Quinn said. "I can't believe no one found him before you."

"I know it," Justin said, leaning back and crossing his arms.

Nick looked around the building. He shifted his weight back and forth. He pushed his hands into his pockets and let out a long sigh.

"You will do just fine," Justin said.

"All right, Nick, if you follow me I will take you back and get you set up," Quinn said.

"I will be coming with him," Justin said.

"That's cool," Quinn said. "Who is that? Will he be joining us as well?"

"He's just an aide I hired to help Nick out, and no," Justin said.

Greg looked up and watched Justin lead Nick down the hallway. He glanced down at his watch and sighed... 75. He watched as a few people walked past him.

"Excuse me," Greg said.

"Can I help you?" The young man said jumping a bit. He looked Greg up and down and took a step back.

"Is there a place to get something to eat?" he asked.

"No, not on the weekends, but there is a nice little place right next to us. They have great breakfasts," the young man said. Greg guessed he was an intern.

"Cool, thanks" Greg said.

"Justin won't like you leaving," the limo driver said.

"Justin won't like it if I pass out either," Greg said, walking out of the building. He covered his ears, hearing the girls start to scream then stop.

"No, I'm not Nick," Greg said, walking to the little dinner. The old lady looked up as he walked in.

"Can I help you, honey?" she said.

Greg looked up at the board. It was covered in hand written items like pancakes, waffles and egg sandwiches. "I'll take two egg and cheese sandwiches and a glass of orange juice," he said.

"Oh, that's a nice choice," the old lady said, smiling.

Greg pulled out his wallet and removed a ten. His hands shook as he handed it to her.

"Are you okay, son?" she asked, taking his money.

"Yeah, just need something to eat," Greg said. "Oh, that's to go," he added.

"Don't wait too long to eat them. They are best very hot," she said, handing Greg his change. She got him his juice and went to work on his sandwiches. Greg got a straw and took a long sip of the juice. Greg took a seat and waited.

"Here you go, son," she said, handing him a bag. "I put another juice in there for you, you should be more careful next time," she said.

"Thanks," Greg said, taking the bag. He walked back to the radio station making his way through the crowd of girls still waiting to see Nick. He couldn't help but smile at them. He sat down next to the limo driver and pulled out one of the sandwiches. He took a bite.

"I got two would you like one?" Greg asked with a bite of food still in his mouth.

"God, no, that stuff will kill you," the driver said.

Greg shrugged his shoulders and took another bite. "It's really good," he said.

The driver shook his head at him "Don't you know it is rude to talk with food in your mouth?" he snorted.

"Oh, sorry," Greg said swallowing. He wiped his face with his arm and took another bite.

"Good lord, don't you have any manners at all?" he said, standing up and walking to the other side of the hallway.

Greg smiled again and removed the extra juice. He opened it and chugged most of it down. He finished both sandwiches and wiped his hands on his lap.

"So how long have you been Nick's driver?" he asked.

"I would prefer not to talk you, unless I have to," he said.

"Oh, sorry," Greg said sighing. "You and Justin must get along great."

"The less you say to me the better," the driver said. "Tell Justin I will be waiting in the car."

Greg leaned back in his chair and waited. He wished he had a radio so he could listen to Nick on the air. He again sighed and looked down at his watch. Eighty-five it read. Greg looked down at his hands watching them shake. He looked down at the floor. He suddenly looked up.

"Shit," he said to himself. He made one of the interns that was walking by jump.

"Can I help you?" he asked.

"Oh god, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to scare you," Greg said, looking at the young man. "No, I'm fine, I just forgot my bag," he added.

"Oh, I don't think I can help you with that, but if you wanna hear the show I can help you there."

"Cool," Greg said, standing up and following him down to a large room. Greg wasn't surprised to hear Justin's voice over the radio. He wondered if Nick had even said anything yet.

"So with the success of your album everyone is wanting to know when you are going to tour. I get tons of calls every day."

"Yeah, I know, the website and fan club get tons of letters everyday as well," Justin said. "We have something in the works and will be letting everyone know very soon."

"So you heard it here first, Nick will be touring," Quinn said.

Nick swallowed and looked at Justin.

"So Nick, I've got a lot of things the fans want to know about you, do you mind if I ask them?"

"No," Nick said taking a deep breath.

"Okay, we got some pretty basic stuff here," Quinn said, looking over the large pile.

"Okay, here's a few. What's your favorite food?"

"I like Mexican," Nick said. "Burritos with cheese."

"Don't let him fool you," Justin said. "He loves Taco Bell."

Quinn smiled. "Hmm, favorite color?"

"Blue," Nick said.

"So, you like sports?"

"Yeah, I... oh," Nick placed his hand on his head. "Football, baseball and racing," Nick said.

"Got any favorite teams?" Quinn asked.

"Any from Texas," Nick said placing both hands on his hand.

Justin looked at Quinn.

"Okay, we are going to take a quick break and we will be right back with Nick Stokes." Quinn said.

"Nick, what's up?"

"I can't go."

"Not now, you just think about the radio show," Justin said. "Quinn, could you get him a bottle of water?"

"Yeah, sure," Quinn said, getting up.

"Nick, don't you do this here, do you understand?" Justin said.

"But, you never said... I can't," Nick said.

"Nick, I just said that to make the fans happy, okay? There is nothing planned. Here, this will help," Justin said, reaching into his bag. He pulled out a needle. "Push your sleeve up."

"No, I don't want that," Nick said, shaking his head over and over. "I don't like that."

"I don't think you have a choice. If you want to keep your fuck boy around you listen to me and push your fucking sleeve up," Justin said in a cold voice. Nick slowly pushed his sleeve up. He closed his eyes, feeling the needle go into his arm.

"That's my boy," Justin said, pulling the needle out and shoving it into his bag as Quinn walked in. Nick pushed his sleeve down and covered his face.

"Here you go," Quinn said, handing them the water.

"Why don't you play one of Nick's songs and we can go on with the interview after it's over?" Justin said.

"Okay," Quinn said

"All right, we are going to rock the air with one of Nick's new hits so don't go away. As soon as it's over I'll be back with more from Nick himself," Quinn said.

Nick leaned back in his chair. His whole body seemed to relax. He picked up the water and opened it taking a drink.

"Okay. So, Nick, the fans want to know what do you like to do for fun?" Quinn asked.

"I'm really kind of a homebody," Nick said. "I just like to rent some movies or games and order some takeout," Nick said.

"You're kidding right? You don't hit the clubs and party?" Quinn said.

"No, not really. I just kinda like to say home and relax. I'm so busy doing records and stuff like that," Nick said.

"So, do you have a lady in your life?" Quinn asked.

Greg looked over at the radio.

"No, no lady right now," Nick said shaking his head a bit. "I don't have much time for that," Nick said.

Greg couldn't help but wonder if Justin had burned these answers into Nick a long time ago.

"So, what kind of girl are you looking for?" Quinn asked.

"Someone that understands me," Nick said softly. "That knows what my fears are and will help me fight them."

Justin looked at Nick and he looked down.

"Wearing leather and all black doesn't hurt either," Nick said. Justin put his hand over his mouth.

Greg stopped and again turned to the radio. He wasn't sure but it felt like his heart just skipped a beat.

He listened as Nick talked about a few childhood memories, holidays and other things.

"Okay, Nick, I want to thank you and Justin for stopping by today." Quinn said.

"Thanks for having us," Justin said.

"Keep us posted on that upcoming tour," Quinn said. "And I'll end this with Nick's number one hit from last year's single."

"Okay, and we are done," Quinn said, smiling.

"See, that wasn't so bad was it?" Justin said, patting Nick on the back.

Nick nodded. He stood up and looked around the room. He was looking out the window. He smiled a bit, seeing Greg out there. Quinn looked to see who Nick was smiling at.

"Well, Quinn, you keep it up and we will be back again," Justin said, giving him a look.

"Yeah, I got you," Quinn said, following them out into the hallway. Quinn smiled seeing Greg wearing a black shirt and leather pants. Greg walked over to them.

"Where is Smith?" Justin asked.

"Who, the driver? Oh, he went to the limo. He didn't like me much," Greg said, smiling.

"What did you do?" Justin asked.

"Me? Nothing, I just offered him a sandwich," Greg said. Justin rolled his eyes.

"Thanks again, Quinn," he said, shaking his hand.

"Nick, I hope you will come back on the air with me," Quinn said, shaking his hand as well.

"Yeah, yeah," Nick said, wiping the sweat off his head. "Just talk to Justin."

"I will," Quinn said. He looked over at Greg.

"Well, we better go," Justin said as the three men walked out. Quinn turned and walked back to his office. Max glared at him.

"It's your own fault," he said, sitting down. Max made a face at him.



Justin opened the limo door and Nick got in. He hit his head on the door.

"Oh, dammit," Nick cried out, almost falling into the limo. Nick placed his hand on his head.

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Justin said, getting in. "Move your hand, let me see." Justin said. "Fuck, Nick you're bleeding," he added.

"Greg, hold this on his head," Justin said. "Why are you so dizzy?" he asked once Greg took his seat and held a cloth to Nick's head.

"He hasn't kept anything down since Tuesday except that small bowl of oatmeal," Greg said.

"No, I gave him dinner Friday night," Justin said.

"He lost it all. I wrote it in your book, didn't you read it?" Greg said.

"Oh, my head," Nick cried out.

"Shh, hold still," Greg said, wiping the blood off his face.

"I..." Justin started to say.

"You should always check the book," Greg said.

"You should shut the fuck up or you can leave."

"No, he can't leave," Nick said. "I don't want him to leave me again."

"I'm not, hold still a bit," Greg said. Justin glared at Greg.

"He leaves I leave," Nick said, still moving around.

"Nick, I can't help you if you don't hold still," Greg said, touching his face and trying to keep him from moving.

"I'm sorry," Nick said, turning to face Greg. "I'm just... oh, god..." he whispered.

Greg took Nick's hand with his free one and held it.

"You just need some food," Greg said.

"Yeah," Justin said. "What would you like?"

"Burritos," Nick said.

"With cheese?" Justin asked.

Nick nodded.

"You heard the man," Justin said to the driver.

"That's better," Greg said, once Nick had stopped moving.

"I just..." Nick closed his eyes.

"What did you give him?" Greg asked.

"You don't ever need to worry about that," Justin said, leaning back in his seat. "I'd hate to make you leave, I'm sure it would kill him this time," Justin said.

Greg looked at Justin, then down at the scars on Nick's wrist. Greg closed his eyes and clenched his teeth together.

"Where are we going?" Nick asked, making Greg jump a bit.

"To get you burritos," Justin said. "It's what you want isn't it?" he smiled at Greg.

Greg removed the rag from Nick's head.

"There, I think it's stopped bleeding," he said as a sick feeling came over him.

"Thanks," Nick said smiling at him. Greg forced a smile in return. Justin shook his head also smiling.

***

Greg watched as Nick scarfed down four burritos with cheese in record time. He kept looking over at Justin was if waiting for him to tell him to stop eating. Greg couldn't help but wonder if Justin told Nick where and when to take a shit too.

Nick took a sip of his water. "What are we doing next?" he asked Justin as he leaned back in his seat.

"Nothing. I think you should get some rest."

"Can we rent a movie?" Nick asked suddenly, looking around the small dinner. There were only a few other people in there, but Nick was constantly looking at them as well as the door suspiciously.

"What ever you want to do," Justin said passively. "You sure you don't want anything?" The question was directed at Greg.

"No, I'm good. I got something while you where on the show," Greg replied, sipping on a diet soda.

"It's really good," Nick said smiling, patting his stomach and looking at Greg expectantly. He wanted more, but was afraid to ask.

"Next time." Greg glancing down at his watch. 99.

"Well, let's get out of here," Justin sighed as a few more people walked into the diner.

"OH MY GOD! YOU'RE NICK!" someone yelled.

Nick jumped at the sound, looking over at the door.

"Oh fuck," Justin muttered under his breath. They needed to leave, and now.

"I love you so much!" the young girl gushed, running to their table. Justin stood up swiftly and stood between the girl and the table. "I'm your biggest fan!" she told Nick excitedly. "Oh wait, You," she said pointing at Greg. "I saw you at the radio station, right?"

Nick looked up at her, then over at Justin.

"Honey, you know none of us a deaf, so you can stop shouting," Justin suggested calmly, hoping the girl would back down.

"Don't you know who that is?! OH my god, I love you Nick! I love you!" Her voice was very high pitched and loud, grating on Justin's nerves. He didn't need this. Nick didn't need this.

Nick jumped again at the the girls voice. It reminded him of a cat in heat.

"Ok, honey, you need to get back." Justin grabber her arm gently, but firmly, and started nudging her back.

"I just wanna meet him and get a photo with him and maybe autograph," she rambled slightly. "My friends are on their way." Justin noticed her cell phone in her hand. "I sent out a text message, they should be here soon. We just want to meet him and get an autograph!"

Before Justin could say anything in response, a huge crowd of screaming girls came rushing inside. Greg jumped up instantly and grabbed Nick by the arm, quickly pulling him up and leading him back to the restroom. He pulled him inside the men's room and locked the door. The girls pounded on the door frantically.

"NICK, WE LOVE YOU!" Nick leaned up on against wall. He placed his hands over his ears and squeezed his eyes closed.

"Oh god," moaned Nick, sliding down to the filthy floor. Once Greg was sure the screaming mob couldn't open the door he rushed over to Nick.

"It's ok, they can't get in here."

"I don't like crowds." His voice came out small and frightened, and Greg had to lean a bit closer to hear the words.

"I know. Justin will take care of it, he'll get us out of here." Greg placed his hand on Nick's shoulder, rubbing it gently.

Nick pressed his hands tightly over his ears as the pounding and screaming went on. "Make it stop," Nick whispered. "Please. I want to go home and rent a movie."

"We will." Greg looking around the restroom noticing a window. He started to stand up before Nick grabbed his arm.

"No, don't leave me alone," Nick cried out, near tears.

"I'm not going to leave, I'm just checking the window over there," Greg assured him gently, pointing to the small window. "Maybe we could get out that way."

"Don't leave me again," Nick choked out softly.

"Nick, look at me. Hey," he said quietly, "I will never leave you again. Trust me." Greg tried smiling gently to reassure Nick as he sat back down next him.

"You left me before," Nick reminded him.

"I know. I didn't want to though. They made me leave. I was told my job was done," was Greg's bitter reply.

Nick looked up at him. Greg wiped away a tear from his face. "There is no way they can make me leave you now."

"Why? Who?" Nick touched his palm to his head.

"That doesn't matter now." Greg knew it would kill Nick to know Amy was the one who made him leave. His own sister.

"But why?" Nick asked quietly.

"I wasn't told why," Greg huffed, jutting his chin out. "Is that why you did that?" Greg asked, motioning to Nick's wrist. He didn't really want to know. It made sick and incredibly sad to think Nick would do such a thing, and when Greg couldn't help him.
"I don't remember," Nick said honestly. "I don't remember much of what happened after you left." Nick wrapped his hand around the scars self consciously. "Why can't I remember?" It was so frustrating that he couldn't remember what happened. Of course Greg didn't know, and Nick was too afraid to ask Justin.

"Shh, it's ok. You don't have to remember right now. Just give yourself some time, all right?" Greg stood up again and walked over to the window, looking out. There were more girls waiting outside. How were they suppose to get out of here?

"Fuck," he whispered, walking back over to Nick.

Nick had his head resting in his palms. "Why can't I remember?" he almost yelled. Greg sat down next to Nick. "I want to go home," Nick moaned dejectedly, covering his ears once more. "I don't like this, Greg."

"I know." Greg wondering how Justin thought they would get to tour. This was less then thirty people. And Nick was suppose to deal with stadiums full? Greg knew it wasn't his place to question Justin, but he didn't see how Justin could think Nick would be able to perform in front of hundreds of people when he couldn't even handle a handful of fans.

"What movie do you want to rent?" Greg asked, hoping to distract Nick from the hell he was trapped in.

"What? Oh, umm, I don't know. I'll have to look," Nick responded. He jumped as the pounding on the door started again.

"Where is Justin?" Nick yelled. Then he lowered his voice. "He needs to get me out of here. I need him to give me something," Nick said, looking away. He was turning pale and his hands were shaking. "Oh god, my head" he moaned in pain. A hand flew over his mouth.

"Nick, you need to calm down," Greg said, talking softly and peeling Nick's hand from his mouth so he could grasp both of his in his own. "You're gonna make yourself sick again."

"Where is Justin? Stop hitting the door," Nick whimpered as Greg pulled him close.

"You don't need Justin, I'm here," Greg whispered into Nick's hair. Nick looked up at him and rest his head on Greg's chest. Greg started to run his fingers through Nick's hair. Greg could feel the tension slowly leave his body. "See, that's it," Greg said. "Take a few deep breaths," he whispered in his ear.

"I want to go home," Nick said softly.

"We will," assured Greg, pulling him as close as possible. "We will."

"I wanted to be free," Nick said suddenly, so soft that Greg could barely hear him. "I couldn't get away, so I wanted to be free. That's all I remember."

Greg wanted to tell Nick he would set him free, he would save him, but he had no idea how he would do it. It wasn't like he could just sneak Nick out in the middle of the night and go to a different city. Nick would be recognized no matter where they went, and Justin would be able to find them. Greg wouldn't risk escaping if Nick would go back to Justin away. He wondered how much of a hold the drugs had on Nick already. "We'll find away," Greg repeated.

"You came back to save me." It was a statement, not a question. Nick pulled away enough so he could look Greg in the eyes. "Will you set me free?"

Greg swallowed hard. "I will do everything thing I can do to set you free." Nick lay his head back on Greg's chest. They both sat and waited, both wondering what was taking so long to get the girls away from the door. They had been in there for over 2 hours now. The could still here them out there. Greg looked down at his watch. 67. He swallowed hard.

"What's wrong?" Nick asked, wiping sweat off Greg's forehead.

"It's nothing," replied Greg, pulling away from him. He got up and walked over to the sink. He turned it on and splashed water on his face, then put his head under the faucet and sucked in some water.

Nick pulled his legs close to his chest. He was also covered in sweat. Greg guessed he was in need of another fix from Justin. Greg walked over to the window, looking out at the all girls again. "Shit, what is taking so long?" He wiped the sweat off his face. He was starting to sweat worse now.

"Maybe you could open it a bit." Nick motioned to the window, wiping himself off again. Greg guessed the window was about 15 feet off the ground and none of the girls out there would be able to get in. He pushed it open letting in the cheers and chants from the crowd below.

Nick clamped his hands over his ears as the noise filled the bathroom.

"I can shut it...?"

"No, I'm ok, please sit by me." Greg walked over to Nick and sat down. Nick unbuttoned his shirt a bit and untucked it, then reached over and took Greg's hand. Again, they both sat and waited.

"I want to go home," Nick repeated. "I'm tired."

Greg didn't answer, looking at his watch. 55.

"Shit," he whispered. There was no reason why he couldn't climb out that window. They didn't want him. They where after Nick, not him.

"What?" Nick looked at Greg quizzically.

"I need to get out of here pretty soon," he said, instantly wishing he hadn't said it.

"What's wrong?" Nick asked, looking up at Greg, worry etched across his face.

"Nothing. I'm just hot and a bit hungry," Greg lied. Nick was already freaked out enough. He didn't want him to worry about him as well. Greg leaned back onto the wall. He looked around the restroom desperately. There was nothing in there, nothing that would help get his blood sugar up. Greg glanced at Nick. He was shaking now, but not from the fear of the girls outside. This was from the need for the drugs that Justin forced him to take. Greg watched beeped and Nick jumped. Greg put his hand over it and walked over to the sink.
"Your not telling the something." Nick rocked back and forth with worry.

"It's nothing to worry about," Greg tried to reassure him. "I'm fine."

"I'm not stupid," Nick told him, looking down. "Everyone thinks I am, but I'm not."

"I never said you where Nick, I just don't want you to worry about me." Greg walking over to him. "It's a glucose watch, I'm a diabetic," he explained. "My blood sugar is getting low." He showed the watch to Nick.

"What should it say?" Nick asked as he examined it.

"110-120," Greg replied, knowing now was not the time to lie to Nick.

"It says 43," Nick said with a look of slight fear in his eyes. He sucked in a deep breath.

"I need my shot and I left my bag at home," Greg said, sitting down.

"We have to get out of here," Nick said. "I need Justin,"

Greg looked at Nick and grasped his hand tightly. The watched beep again.

"It gives a reading every 20 minutes," Greg explained softly. "It beeps when my levels get under 50."

Nick nodded. He covered his face with his hands. "OH fuck," he cried out. "I want to get out of here, why won't they leave me alone?"

Greg wiped his head again and stood up. His legs seemed to ache as he took a step over to the sink. The watched beeped again. 39. Greg leaned on the sink heavily. He was starting to feel light headed.

"Shit," Nick cried out. "I can't! I want out of here, please go home!" he yelled.

"Wait," Greg said sharply. "It's quite out there." Greg walked slowly to the door.

"Nick, Greg open the door!" Justin yelled. "Fuck, I'm so sorry," he exclaimed as Greg pulled the door open. Justin rushed over to Nick. "Are you ok?" he said, sliding a needle into his arm.

"Greg," Nick murmured after Justin removed the needle from his arm. "Greg was leaning on the door."

Justin looked over at him with disgust. "What the fuck is wrong with you?"

"I need--" Greg stopped and slid down the wall. His watch beeped again. 25.

"He needs something to eat," Nick said as an explanation while he looked at his arm "What, no...why did I..." Nick could feel the effects of the drugs instantly.

"We need get out of here," Justin said, sounding distracted. "I'm not sure how long the police can hold that crowd back."

"No, he's a--" Nick stopped and shook his head, attempting to clear it.

Justin looked down at Greg. "What the fuck is going on?"

Greg closed his eyes to stop the room from spinning so fast.

"Nick, what is wrong with him?" Justin was bordering on frantic. He started shaking Nick.

"I ugh, hmm..." Nick's mind was a blur. Justin shook Nick harder, wishing he hadn't giving him the drugs. He walked over to Greg, looking down at him. "Greg, what is wrong? What do I need to do?" Justin asked as he knelled in front of him.. A few of the policemen walked in the room.

"You gotta them out of here, my men can only hold them back for so long," a policeman warned Justin.

"Something is wrong with him." Justin motioned to Greg as he stood up.

The officer walked over to Greg. "Sir, are you ok?" he asked in a loud voice. "We need to know what is wrong with you."

"He needs...," Nick tried to get the words past his lips. He brought a hand to his head, seeming to want to dig the words out with his fingers. "Something," he finally spit out.

"Nick, what is going on?" Justin asked gently. "Try and remember."

"I.. Ugh. It--" He stopped and closed his eyes.

Greg's watch beeped again. The officer looked down at it. 19.

"What kind of watch says 19?" he asked Justin, looking at him sideways.

"It's broken I think."

"Maybe he took something he shouldn't have and we should just wait it out." It sounded like a question, but Justin had a sneaking suspicion he was correct.

"Let's get them both to your limo before the girls come back," the officer suggested, reaching for Greg's arm to start hulling him to his feet. He was dead weight, though, and Greg just fell back to the floor.

"Ok," Justin agreed has he pulled Nick up.

"Is he ok?" The officer looked at Justin then at Nick, a strange look on his face.

"Yeah, I just gave him his medicine. The fans were freaking him out. He'll be fine." Justin led Nick out of the restroom.

"No I-- he..." Nick tried to protest but couldn't make anything come out of his mouth.

The officer lifted Greg up and carried him out to the limo. "Maybe you should take him to the ER," he suggested, laying him down on one of the seats.

"Yeah, yeah," Justin muttered dismissively, helping Nick sit down.

Nick looked at Greg. "He needs to eat something," he thought. "He's a diabetic, he need sugar."

"He ...." Nick tried again, but couldn't get the words to come out. He leaned his head back against the warm leather of the seat.

Greg's watch beeped again. "What the fuck," Justin said. He took Greg's arm and roughly removed the watch. He tossed it down on the seat next to Greg. Nick looked at the watch and closed his eyes.
"I'll have to get your boy toy a new watch," Justin smirked at Nick. "What a day from hell. Smith, Nick wants a movie so let's stop and I'll pick something out."

The driver looked back and nodded. "So, we're not going to the ER?"

"No, I'm sure he took something while they where in there. Kid's gotta be a druggie, just look how skinny he is."

"You should know," Smith muttered under his breath. Then he asked louder so Justin could hear him, "Sir what does the watch say now?"

Justin picked it up and looked at it, confused. "Hmm that's odd, it says error."

"Hmm," Smith said, "That is odd."

"I'll get you home Nicky, I'll pick you out a good movie and even let you have a bit of popcorn." Justin said looking at Nick. Nick couldn't move even though he wanted to. He wanted to yell at Justin tell him what was wrong with Greg, tell him what he needed. But he couldn't. He couldn't even open his eyes to see if Greg was ok.

***

Most of the time Nick had no clue what was going on around him. He never knew what Justin or Amy gave him either. When Justin gave him a shot it knocked him out. He met Justin about 7 years ago at a small bar his sister worked at. It was closing time, and no one was in there. Nick came to pick up Amy since she had been drinking too much. He would never let her drive home if she'd had to much to drink.


"Sing for me, Nicky," Amy said, wiping down the last table.

Nick looked around the small bar and didn't see anyone.

"I just wanna get home," Nick said, pushing his hands into his pockets. He didn't like coming down to the bar.

"There ain't no one here, I've had a bad night, sing for me," she asked again, now sitting down. "It's just you and me."

Nick again looked around the bar. "Amy, I just wanna go home," Nick said.

"Please, Nicky, I'll make you burritos for your lunch tomorrow," she said. "Come on you haven't done it for a long time. I love your voice. It always cheers me up."

"Fine," Nick said, walking over to the microphone. "What do you want me to sing?" he asked, turning it on.

"I don't care, something pretty," she said.

Nick took in a deep breath and looked over the list of songs on the machine. He picked one and stepped up to the mike.

"You better make me enough for dinner, too," Nick said as the music started. Amy sat back and smiled as Nick started to sing. She glanced back at the restroom. Hoping Justin could hear him. She looked back at Nick. She didn't like tricking him but knew of no other way to get him to sing.

Justin pushed the door open just a bit so he could hear better.

"Holy shit," he thought. "Amy was right." Justin let the door closed remembering he had to remain unseen.

Nick stepped away from the mike and walked over to his sister.

"You should come and do that on a Friday night," Amy said, getting another beer.

"You are so funny," Nick said, again looking around the bar.

"Nicky, relax there is no one else here but us. Live a little, honey," she said, touching his arm. Nick sat next to her and picked up a coaster. He moved it around in his hands waiting for Amy to finish her drink.

Justin peeked out of the door. "Come on, Amy," he thought. He didn't want to spend any more time hiding in the restroom. He wondered what Nick would do when he walked out.

"Amy, are you ready?" Nick asked, standing up. "I have to get up early tomorrow," he said, wiping his forehead.

"Yeah, I'm ready," she said, looking back at the restroom. Nick turned around as Justin walked out. Nick's eyes widened and he took a step back.

"You said no one was here," Nick said, turning to his sister.

"Nicky, don't be mad at me but I wanted him to hear you sing," Amy said, touching Nick's arm. Nick pulled away from her and started to walk out side.

"Nick, wait, don't be upset with her, it was my fault, I talked her into it," Justin said, following him.

"Who are you?" Nick asked, turning around.

"I'm Justin Riggs," he said, holding his hand out.

Nick took his hand and shook it. He took a step back and looked him over. Justin was a thin man. He had black hair that was kept nice and short. He had big brown eyes. His face was long and clean-shaven. He was a bit taller than Nick and wore a suit. Nick found it odd to wear such a thing to a little country bar way out in Texas.

"Sir, what ever you are trying to sell, I'm not buying," Nick said.

"What if I can make you a star?" Justin said.


"No, thanks," Nick said. "I don't sing in front of anyone," he turned to walk out.

"God dammit, Nicky, do you wanna live like this our whole lives?" Amy yelled. She wasn't drunk, she just told Nicky she was to get him down here. "Don't you wanna get out of this shit hole and see what is out there?"

"Not really, I like my shit hole," Nick said. "You can get a ride home with your new friend."

"Why are you doing this, Nicky? This is our chance to get out of here. To live our dreams."

"It's not my dream, it's yours," Nick said. Justin took a step closer to Nick.

"What if I told you I could help you with your fears," Justin said.

Nick glared at Amy.

"I know you have a fear of crowds," Justin said in a calm voice. "I can help you get over that."

Nick looked at Amy. "But I don't want this," he said. "I'm happy."

"Nicky, how can you be happy, you don't have any friends, you don't go out, you just work, sleep and eat," she said. "That's not a life."

"It's my life," Nick said. "And I'm fine with it." He looked away from her.

"Then do it for me," Amy said. "Help me live my dreams. Get me out of his hell."

"Why are you putting this on me?" Nick said, putting his hands over his face.

"Nicky, please," Amy said, walking over to him. She took his hand and lifted his chin up.

"I don't want this," Nick said.

"Let us help you," she said.

Nick again turned away from Amy.

"Take this and it will help calm your fears," she said, holding something in front of him.

"This isn't what I want," he said, taking the pill in his hand.

"It will help you," Amy said, watching Nick swallow the pill.

"That's it," she said. "Thank you, Nicky, I will never forget this."

"All right," Justin said, rubbing his hands together. He was now ready to put his plan into action.


Nick tried his best to open his eyes. He needed to see if Greg was okay. But nothing seemed to work on him right now.

"Hmm," Nick tried to say something.

Justin patted his leg. "Relax Nick, I'm going to get you home so you can get some rest."

"Sir, are we stopping to rent a movie?" Smith asked.

"No, it's okay, he'll just sleep most of the night off. I gave him a bit extra to calm him down," Justin said, glancing over at Greg.

"It's going to break Nick's heart when I have to fire this kid," Justin said.

"Why would you do that?" Smith asked.

"He broke the first rule. He lied to me, he told me he was clean."

"As if you have any right to judge," Smith said.

"Smith, do you like your job?" Justin snapped.

"Not really, sir. You are an ass to me and your other staff and you keep that man so drugged up, he can't even think for himself, anymore," Smith snapped back.

"Then quit," Justin said, crossing his arms.

"I'm waiting for you to fire me," Smith said, stopping at a red light. He looked back in the mirror focusing on Greg. He was very pale and covered in sweat. He was still breathing at least.

"I can find a good driver anywhere," Justin said.

"Then fire me," Smith said. "Make my life easier."

"Why don't you just quit and make my life easier?" Justin snapped back.

The light turned green and Smith started to drive again.

"Where the fuck are you going?" Justin yelled out looking outside.

"Just taking a different way to go," Smith said, again looking in his mirror at Greg.

Nick took a deep breath and again tried to open his eyes.

"Nicky, just sit still," Justin said.

"Greg," he said.

"He's fine, just took something that he shouldn't have," Justin said, reaching down for his bag.

"What, the boy said a word, so you have to drug him again?" Smith said.

"Why don't you shut the fuck up and drive," Justin yelled, putting the bag on his lap. He pulled out a bottle of pills.

"Greg needs help," Nick said, not sure the words came out of his mouth.

"What does he need," Smith said very loudly, hoping Nick could hear him.

"He needs... He needs... fuck!"

"He needs a fuck," Justin laughed, putting a pill in his hand. "Here, Nicky, take this."

"Sir, aren't you..."

"Shut up or I will fire you," Justin yelled.

"Please do," Smith said.

"Nicky, take this, you'll feel better," Justin said softly, holding the pill in front of him.

"No, eat," Nick said, touching his head.

"You've had too much to eat today. You don't get anything else," Justin said. "Now take the pill."

"No, Greg," Nick said. Justin grabbed him by the chin and pushed his mouth open. He put the pill in his mouth. "Swallow it," Justin said.

"Does Greg need something to eat?," Smith asked, knowing he didn't have long. The pill would work fast and knock Nick out.

"Yeah," Nick said

"He's fine Smith, stop worrying so much," Justin said sitting back. "Are we lost?"

"No, sir. I know where I'm going, just enjoy the ride."

"Yeah, right, stuck with you three," he said.

Nick's eyes grew heavy and closed.

"Sugar," Nick said softly.

Justin looked at Nick, then over at Greg.

"What the fuck is going on?" Justin said. Greg's whole body was tight. His hands where clenched together in tight fists. His back was arched up just as his eyes half opened and seemed to roll back into his head.

Smith stopped the limo. Justin pulled out his phone. "Why are you stopping," Justin yelled.

"I couldn't tell you, sir," Smith said as he put the limo back in drive.

"Nathan, did you get the test back on Nick's boy toy," he almost yelled.

"Yeah, he's clean, I didn't find anything in his system," Nathan said, looking over the paper work.

"You've got to be shitting me. He's passed out in my limo, covered in sweat and I think he just had some kind of fucking seizure," Justin said. "Are you sure you did the test right?"

"Justin, please, I did it twice because I couldn't believe it myself," Nathan said. "I'm sorry to disappoint you but he's clean."

"That doesn't mean he's clean now," Justin said, looking over at him.

"Hmm, you could only wish, so what is he doing?"

"Sugar," Nick said.

"Nick, shut the fuck up," Justin yelled. "Man, I wish I could give him something stronger. I don't even like the fucking kid so why am I worried about him?"

"Cause when Amy got rid of him Nick lost it and cut his wrist open and almost died," Nathan said. "You need him and you know it."

"Yeah, but I have no clue what's wrong with him," Justin said. "Smith maybe you should head to the ER."

"I'm almost there now, sir," Smith said

Nick forced his eyes open and tried to say something.

"God, Nicky, shut up," Justin yelled.

Smith sighed. "Did you ever stop and think that he may know what is wrong with the young man?"

Justin looked at Nick.

"What is it, Nick?" he said.

Nick's again said sugar.

"What did he say?" Nathan asked.

"He's not making any sense. He doesn't know what is going on any better than I do," Justin said.

"Did he say sugar?" Smith asked.

"Yeah, why?" Justin said.

"Sugar," Nathan said, again looking over the paper work in front of him.

"Hmm, Justin, get him to the ER right away. I think he's a diabetic and he's hypoglycemic. He needs a shot of glucagon right away," Nathan said.

Nick closed his eyes. His head fell to the side. His body relaxed now that he knew Greg was going to get help.

Smith pulled the limo up to the ER.

"Stay with Nick," Justin ordered, getting up. He ran to the other side and lifted Greg's lifeless body up and carried him inside.

"I need help right away," Justin yelled. "He's a diabetic."

"Put him over here," someone yelled. "What's going on?"

"He got trapped in a room for a while. He needs glucagon or something right away."

"Are you sure? Did you test his blood?" the doctor asked.

"What? No, I didn't even know he was a diabetic, my friend said he needed sugar," Justin said.

"I need to do a quick test to see. I could kill him if I'm wrong."

"Do your test," Justin said, stepping away. The doctor lifted Greg's hand and pricked his finger and squeezed some blood onto the meter. It beeped and flashed the number 3.

"Oh, shit, that's low I need a shot of Glucagon over here right away," he yelled. "I'm going to start an IV." A nurse handed him the shot and he quickly gave it to Greg.

"Will he be okay?" Justin asked.

"He should be. I think we caught it in time. He should carry this around with him at all times. How long..."

"Wait, before you ask, I don't know anything about him. I just hired him a few days ago and he never told me anything," Justin said.

"I'll be right back," the doctor said.

Justin sat down next to Greg's bed. "You better be okay," he said. "I can't lose Nick, now. I have too much at stake."



Nick again tried to open his eyes.

"Relax, Nick, your friend is going to be okay," Smith said. "Justin took him inside. You did good."

Nick again closed his eyes. His head fell back and his body went limp.

Smith kept a close eye on him, making sure he was still moving air.

****

Greg opened his eyes. He touched his fingers to his head and let out a low moan. He sat up and placed his feet on the floor, removing the many wires and tubes attached to him.
"Wait sir, you need to lie down," a nurse said, rushing into the room.

"No thanks, I'm fine." Greg stood up, feeling something yank on his arm. He looked down at the IV attached to him. "I need to go. Can you take this out?"

"No, only a doctor can remove it." She pushed the call button once.

"That's a lie," Greg scoffed. 'Most doctors don't even know how to take a temperature." He started to undo the tape holding the IV in place.

"Wait sir, the doctor will be here any minute."

"Either you take it out or I will," Greg said sharply, pulling at it. "I've had a few of these, so I bet I could get this out." The nurse looked at the door but no one came through it. She walked over and removed the IV from Greg's arm. "Thank you," he said quietly as he picked up his clothes, moving into the restroom and shutting the door on the nurse.

"What's going on?" Derrick asked as he walked into the room.

"He's awake and in the restroom. He's leaving," the nurse told him nervously.

"What? He had an IV in."

"I know. He was going to remove it himself, so I took it out so he wouldn't hurt himself," she replied. She looked at the doctor as Greg emerged from the restroom.

"Greg," Derrick started, "I don't think you should leave. Your blood levels were very low, and I think we should talk about your illness."

"There is nothing to talk about. I got locked in a restroom and my level dropped because I couldn't get anything to eat. I know how to take care of myself."

"What do you think about getting a pump put in place?" Derrick asked him.

"Yeah, no thanks," Greg replied hastily. "Not a good idea in my line of work," he added.

"What do you do?" Derrick asked, stepping in front of the door to keep Greg from leaving.

"I'm a hooker," Greg answered bluntly. "Now, I have to go." He tried to side-step around the doctor, who only moved to block Greg's exit once again.

Derrick looked at him pleadingly. "Please, can I at least do a test so I can see what your levels are at?"

"No, I need to go." Greg another step toward the door, trying to get around the doctor. "I need to get home to my friend. He's probably worried about me. So I have to go."

"Greg, do you have a safe place to go?" Derrick asked. "I can get someone down here for you to talk to."

"I don't need to talk to one of your head shrinks just because I fuck people for a living. It pays well and I like to have sex, so really, I can't lose. Now will you please move?"

"You are leaving AMA," the doctor warned.

"Fine by me," Greg snapped as the doctor stepped out of the way.

"Greg, what are you doing?" Justin was walking up to him, a cup of coffee in his hand.

"I'm fine now, so let's go," Greg said.

"They said you may have to stay over night."

"I'm fine," Greg said a bit louder. "So can we go."

"Yeah, I hate these places," Justin agreed, tossing the coffee in the trash as they walked briskly toward the exit.

"I think you should reconsider!" They heard Derrick say from down the hallway. Greg didn't stop but Justin did. "He's making a big mistake. You should try and talk to him." Justin turned back to Greg, but Greg was already out the door.

"Hello sir, I see you're feeling better," Smith greeted Greg as he slipped into the limo.

"Yeah I'm fine," Greg replied, moving over to Nick. He put his hand to Nick's head, checking his temperature. "God, he's burning up." He unbuttoned Nick's shirt, trying to cool him down.

"Justin gave him a few things to shut him up, sir. He was trying to tell us about you." Smith glanced at Justin as he entered the limo.

"Let's get the fuck out of this shit hole," Justin demanded. He looked over at Greg. "Are you sure you should be leaving?"

"I've been living with this for a long time, I know what I'm doing," Greg assured him as he took Nick's hand.

"It's your call," Justin said with a shrug. "Let's go home, Smith."

"As you wish, sir." Smith looked at Greg, who now had a damp towel from the bar and was wiping the sweat off Nick's forehead.

Nick opened his eyes. "Greg," he mouthed, the gush of air over his lips the only noise.

"I'm OK, so you can relax now," Greg whispered. Nick closed his eyes and leaned into Greg. Greg wrapped his arms around him.

"I have to talk to you," Justin said to Greg with an edge.

"What's up?" Greg held Nick close to him and looked up at Justin.

"I need you to get Nicky to sing at the Nascar race next weekend."

"How am I suppose to do that?" Greg asked, glaring at him. "Has he sung in front of a crowd like that before?"

"Nope. It will be the first time. But Amy said you can get him to anything," he stated, already convince that Greg would do this for him.

"That was a TV show with a few people in the crowd! There will be 100,000 people there." Greg could not believe Justin wouldn't acknowledge the difference.

"Well you don't have a choice. Either you do it or I'll just have to play around with his pills until I find something that will work." Justin flashed an evil smile.

"You are an asshole," Greg growled lowly.

"I agree," Smith piped up.

"Shut up and drive! And you I'd watch my mouth, I'd hate to fire you."

Greg licked his lips and looked at Nick.

"Suck is cock, fuck him the ass, whatever it takes to get the boy to sing. I'm having the lights set up so he won't be able to see much of anything anyway," Justin said, crossing his arms.

Greg agreed reluctantly. "Okay, I'll do it."

"You don't have much of a choice, it's what I'm paying you to do." Justin had a smug smile in place. The limo came to a stop just then. "Why in the fuck are we stopping now!?"

"Nick wanted a movie, I thought I was suppose to stop," said Smith, looking in the rear view mirror at Justin.

"You are a fucking asshole," Justin grumbled. "Fine, go pick something out." He sneered, waving his hand at Smith. Smith smiled and got out of the limo.

"You don't like him much do you?" asked Greg, lacing his fingers with Nick's.

"No, I can't stand the asshole," Justin said angrily.

"Why don't you just fire him then?" Greg asked.

Justin looked at Greg like he'd grown another head. "I can't fire my dad, what kind of son would I be?"

"Your dad?" Greg murmured. "My dad would knock me out if I talked to him like that."

"Yeah well, my Dad is weak." Justin didn't appreciate all the questions.

"Why do you call him Smith?"

Justin snapped. "What the fuck do you care!"

"Can't talk to Nick, he's kinda out of it. So I just thought I'd chat with you." Greg kept his voice steady and his gaze level.

'Oh, really?' Justin thought. "I'm not paying you to chat with me. You're Nick's boy toy and that's it, so sit there and shut up," Justin demanded.

Smith got back into the car. "What, you get that stupid gay cowboy movie?" Justin looked pointedly at Greg, smirking at him.
"No, sir, they were all out. I got Nick's favorite, 'Titanic,'" replied Smith.

Justin rolled his eyes. "Can we please go home so I can be with normal people," he commanded more harsh than normal.

"As you wish, sir."

Greg opened his mouth to speak, but Justin cut him off. "I'd keep it shut if I where you."

"I bought Nick some popcorn as well, sir. I heard you tell him that he could have some," Smith said, pulling the limo up to the house.

"You are killing me, you really are," Justin sighed, jumping out of the limo.

"My watch," Greg exclaimed, looking around on the seats.

"It's by Nick, somewhere," Justin said over his shoulder, not faltering his steps. Greg looked around toward Nick and found it. He picked it up and slipped it over his wrist, making sure it was secure. He pushed few buttons and it beeped.

"Are you OK?" Smith asked, genuinely concerned.

"Yeah, it's just resetting itself," Greg assured him.

"Do you need help getting Nick inside, sir?"

"My name is Greg." He touched Nick's face, trying to wake him.

Nick jumped slightly and squinted his eyes open. "Where are we?" he asked.

"We are home, can you walk?" Greg asked.

"Hmm.. I wanted to get a movie." Nick's words came out very slowly and slurred together, making it slightly difficult for Greg to understand him. Nick slid forward a bit and fell to the floor.


"I'm going to need help," Greg called out to Smith. He pulled Nick forward so Nick could put his legs out the ground and try to stand. "Oh god," Nick yelped as he fell to his knees. Greg and Smith grabbed Nick's elbows and hefted him up.

"Go easy on me sir, I'm very old," Smith half-joked as Nick leaned to his side.

"I can't feel my legs, I think I'm flying," mumbled Nick.

"Yeah well, can we fly a bit faster?" Smith huffed out between breaths. "Lean on your friend, he's much younger than I am." Nick shifted his weight over to Greg as they made their way inside. They led him over to the couch and Nick fell back on it.

"Take him to his room," Justin ordered. "I don't want anyone to see him like that."

"Maybe you shouldn't be giving him so many pills," Smith said harshly.
"Smith, you are done for the day so you can go home," Justin said with mock-sweetness, walking over to Nick. He grabbed Nick by his arm and lifted him off the couch.

Nick cried out in pain. "Goddammit Nick, walk!" Justin yelled, letting go of Nick's arm and watching him drop to the ground.

"Greg get over here and help me!" Justin barked. Greg walked over to the where Nick lay crumpled on the floor and helped Justin lift him up.

"My arm hurts," Nick moaned as he was carried to his room.

"Good," Justin said maliciously, letting him fall once they got him to his room. Greg bent down next to Nick to help him up. His eyes followed Justin out of the room.

"Come on Nick, let's get in bed." Greg gently guided him over to it.

"Will you sleep with me?" The question came out meekly.

"Yeah, I will."

"The room is spinning," Nick informed him once he was settled on the bed.

"Just close your eyes and try not to think around it," Greg suggested, glancing down at his watch. 79. "I need to get a drink. I'll be right back."

"Please come back," Nick whimpered. It was hard for Greg to understand him. Nick's words were slurred and were coming out very slowly.

"I will," Greg promised as he walked out of the room.

"You should stay with him. Justin will be very upset."

"I'm Greg," he introduced himself, looking at one of the younger girls. He remembered her from earlier.

"Rhonda," she replied. "But I mean it. Justin will get mad."

"I just need some orange juice," Greg said, pulling a bottle from the fridge.

"I made sandwiches," she offered, pointing to them. Greg nodded and picked one up.

"Justin won't like you eating in front of him."

"I won't." Greg picked up another one.

"Oh God, you can't feed him. It's not in the rules." She walked over to Greg, getting very worried.

"I have my own set of rules," Greg stated lowly, walking out.

"I got you something to eat," Greg announced, sitting down next to Nick.

Nick reached for the sandwich but ended up only grabbing air. Greg took his hand and placed the triangle in it.

"Oh this is nice." Nick moaned with contentment after a few bites. "Can I have another one?" he asked, licking his fingers.

"Yeah, I'll be right back." Greg got up and fetched few more triangles.

"You are really going to upset Justin, you know," Rhonda warned placing her hands on her hips. "He needs to know everything Nick eats. He doesn't want him to get fat." She gave Greg a pointed look.

"Fat!?" Greg was flabbergasted at this. "The guy is skin and bones. I think I weight more than he does." Greg headed back into the room, shaking his head slightly. He handed Nick another half of sandwich, then walked over to the TV. "Smith got you a movie too." Greg turned on TV and held up the box for Nick to see.

"Titanic?" Nick asked between bites of food.

Greg nodded and put it in, walking back to the bed to lay down next to Nick.

"You jump, I jump," Nick repeated, smiling. "But she let go, she let his hand go and he went right to the bottom."

"How many times have you seem this movie?" Greg asked.

"Fifty-one times." Nick made more sense now. Greg guessed it was because he had some food in his stomach. "I love this movie," he sighed, laying down. "I never get tired of it."

Greg nodded and sat next to Nick, opening the orange juice and taking a drink from the bottle. He wiped his mouth with the hem of his shirt, then cuddled closer to Nick. Nick reached over and took Greg's hand in his, pulling him as close as possible. Greg ran his fingers through Nick's hair affectionately.

"You like Nascar?" Greg asked after a moment. He didn't want to do this, but he had no choice.

Nick looked up at Greg. "Yeah, I like the 20 car. I hope he wins it all again." He turned back to the movie again.

'Good,' Greg thought. He was working on a plan to get Nick to sing at he race. It wasn't going to be easy. Greg laughed a bit as Nick repeated the movie word for word. He lifted his head up a little and wedged a pillow under it.

"I feel like Rose," Nick murmured, laying his head down. Greg closed his eyes and kissed Nick's hair.

***

Amy stood in the doorway looking at them. Nick was lying on his side, Greg was behind him. Nick's head rested on Greg's chest. Greg's arms were around
him holding both his hands. Their legs were intertwined. She smiled and walked back into the kitchen.

"Welcome home," Justin said, walking into the room. He looked at the coffee pot. "Why isn't there any coffee yet?" he almost yelled.

Amy closed her eyes as she saw a young girl rush into the room.

"Oh god, I forgot to turn it on, I'm so sorry," she cried out, turning it on.

"It is so hard to find good help nowadays," Justin said, sitting down. He picked up a muffin. "Get the fuck out of here before I fire your sorry ass," he barked.

The young girl ran out of the room.

"So did you enjoy yourself?" Justin asked, after taking a bite.

"As much as anyone could," she said, covering her face.

"Nick's boy toy is a piece of work," Justin said, checking on the coffee. He sighed seeing it was nowhere near ready.

"I know, he doesn't listen, he does what he wants with him," Amy said. "That's why I got rid of him the first time. I just didn't know Nick cared for him so much," she said, closing her eyes.

"Looks like we are stuck with him now," Justin said, again looking over at the coffee. "Fuck, is it that hard to push the on button?" he yelled.

"Justin, relax," Amy said. "So what do you have planned?"

"He's going to sing at the race on Sunday," Justin said.

Amy looked up at him. "Do you think he's ready for that?" she asked.

"No, not after what happened yesterday but we can't back out now. I mean, he's gonna lose his appeal if we don't get him out there and let the fans see him. I just thought he'd come around faster," Justin said, getting up and filling his cup with coffee.

"I told Greg to do what ever it takes. I'm gonna have the lights set up so he can't see most of the crowd," Justin said.

"I can't believe you did this without talking to me first," she said, looking down.

"We are going to lose the demand if we don't get him out there," he said. "I'm sure Greg can get him to do it." With that he walked out of the room. Amy sighed and covered her face.

"Amy, we need to talk about what he's going to wear on Sunday," Justin shouted from the other room. "And his boy toy as well." Amy slowly stood up and walked back to Justin's office.

---------------------------------------- ----------------------------------

Nick moved a bit. He felt something warm against his back.

"You're still here," he said, letting one of Greg's hands go. Greg opened his eyes. He looked over at the clock. 7:45 a.m. This getting up early was going to take some getting used to.

"I told you I'm not going to leave you this time," he said, kissing Nick's neck.

"I feel like shit," Nick said, trying to free himself from Greg. Once he did, he lay flat on his back and covered his face with his arms. "What happened yesterday?" he asked, trying to fight off the nausea.

"We got trapped in a restroom by a bunch of fans," Greg said, touching Nick's face. He still felt very hot to the touch. "You need a drink," Greg said, getting up.

"I remember something about you," Nick said.

"Me? I'm fine, it was my own fault. I forgot my bag, blood sugar got too low," he said. "I'll be right back." He walked into the kitchen.

"Oh, my," Rhonda said, covering her face. Greg was not wearing anything.

"Get used to it, doll," Greg said, removing a bottle of water.

Rhonda stood up and left the room.

"Wow, Greg, you're not shy at all," Justin said as he entered the room.

"Nick's still pretty hot to the touch," Greg said, getting out some orange juice for himself. "He may have a fever."

"Where's your fancy watch?" Justin asked.

"It's resetting," Greg said, getting a muffin as well.

"Well, I'll get Nick some Tylenol along with his pill, you guys can just rest today. There is nothing planned," Justin said.

Greg turned and walked back into Nick's room. His eyes were closed.

"I got you some water and a muffin," Greg said sitting on the bed.

"I shouldn't eat that," Nick said, taking the water. "Justin..."

"Justin told me to give it to you," Greg said.

Nick looked at him and reached for it. He picked it up and took a bite.

"Mmm, blueberry," he said, smiling. Greg opened the juice and chugged most of it down. He picked up his bag and set a few things out. Nick looked over at what he was doing. He watched as Greg pulled out a lancet and pricked his finger with the needle, to get a drop of blood. He picked up his meter and squeezed a small drop of blood onto the stripe. He set it down and took in a deep breath.

"I can't stand the sight of blood," Greg said with a smile. "You'd think I'd be used to this." He looked down at the meter. It read 88. Greg looked in his bag and removed a syringe. "I hate needles worse," he said as he removed the cap. He closed his eyes and pushed the needle into his stomach. He pulled it out and dropped it down. He slowly opened his eyes and got up, taking a few seconds to steady himself.

"Are you okay?" Nick asked.

"Yeah, my levels are always low, I can't keep them up," he said, walking into the rest room. He got a rag and ran it under cold water and returned to Nick. He placed it on his forehead.

"You don't have to do that," Nick said, looking up at him.

"You have a fever," he said, running the rag over his face.

"So what do I have to do today?"

"Nothing," Greg said. "Just get some rest," he said, lying down next to him.

"Where's your watch?" Nick asked.

"It's resetting. It works for 12 hours and then it needs to reset itself for 3 hours. Don't worry about me," he said.

"I can't help it, I wanted to tell them but I couldn't. I couldn't move, I knew what you needed," Nick said. "I was trapped in my own body."

"I won't let that happen again," Greg said. "Now get some rest."

"Amy," Nick said. Greg turned and looked at her.

"Justin said he had a fever," she said, walking over to him. She set a cup down.

"Greg, could you leave us alone for a bit," she asked, taking Nick's hand.

"I..."

"You don't really have a choice," she said, not looking at him.

"Okay, well, if you put it that way" he said, walking out of the room.

Amy smiled at Nick.

"Hey, there," she said, touching his face. "You are hot," she added feeling him.

"Why did you make Greg leave? Is he coming back?" Nick asked, looking over at the door.

"He's in his birthday suit, honey, what do you think?" she said, pulling out a syringe.

"Amy, no please, I don't want that," Nick cried, tears coming to his eyes.

"You need it, we need you to be relaxed for a few days," she said.

"But I..." Nick said, watching her take the cap off.

"Nicky, shhh, it's for the best."

"No, I'm okay," he said, trying to sit up.

"I'd hate to have to make Greg leave again," she said.

Nick closed his eyes.

"That's it," she said, wrapping a band around Nick's arm. She pushed the needle into his arm.

"Oh, god," Nick said, looking away. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to do anything wrong. I'm so sorry, I'll try harder."

"It's okay. See all done, now take these," she said, handing him the cup. "Take the pills, Nick," she said. Nick picked up the cup and did as Amy told him.

"There you go, you just get some rest," she said, standing up. She walked out of the room. She walked into the kitchen.

"You can go back in there," she said to Greg. "And it would be nice if you'd at least put some shorts on," she added, walking down the hallway.

Rhonda looked at her.

"What the fuck are you looking at?" she yelled, going into Justin's office.

"I'm not giving him that everyday, he won't need it. He has Greg," she said.

"We'll see," Justin said, smiling.

Amy looked over at him then turned away. Justin smiled and leaned back in his chair.

---------------------------------------- -------------------------

Greg stood up and walked back into the room. He pulled the door shut.

"Nick," he said, taking the rag off his head.

"I didn't want it," he said, looking at his arm. "But she wouldn't listen to me. She never listens to me," he cried out, covering his face.
Greg sat down next to him and pulled him close. He wrapped his arms around
him. Nick pulled away just a bit and looked at him.

"It works fast," he whispered, lying down. Greg moved next to him. He moved on top of him and leaned down kissing his neck.

"Mmm," Nick said, putting his hands on Greg's shoulders. He slid them down his sides and stopped at his hips.

Greg again kissed his neck and down to his chest. He laid down on top him. Nick wrapped his arms around his waist.

"I want you," Nick said. "I need you, please," he said

Greg nodded and kissed him once more. Greg slid down to Nick's leg. It was a wonder to him but Nick was hard and ready to go. Greg took him in his hand and slid it up and down.

Nick reached his hands behind him and took a hold of the pillow. Greg leaned down and licked him up and down taking his balls in his other hand. Greg then took Nick in his mouth, sucking on the tip.

Nick arched up and tightened his grip on the pillow.

Greg removed his mouth and took Nick in his hand. He ran it up and down. He was a bit surprised when Nick reached over and took him in his hand. Not that he was complaining. He was dripping wet now and it almost hurt, and Nick's hand felt so good, Greg stopped what he was doing. He leaned back. Nick looked up at him and smiled. He sped his hand up just a bit now sliding it up and down. When he reached the tip he squeezed just a bit. Greg arched back each time he did his.

"Oh, god," Nick said, moving his hand faster now. Greg couldn't remember the last time someone took the time to give him any enjoyment. Most guys just wanted a fuck or for Greg to give them head. They almost never did anything for him. It felt really good to have someone else, he'd gotten so used to his own hand. He leaned back a bit more, biting his bottom lip.

"I'm gonna cum," he said. "Oh, shit."

Nick smiled, still moving his hands up and down even faster now. Greg flinched a bit as he went over the tip. He felt the warmth of Greg's juice running down his hand. Greg fell over backwards and covered his face.

"Oh, god, it's been too long," he said. He rolled off Nick's legs and turned around to face him.

Nick smiled and picked up the rag and wiped his hand off.

"Thanks," Greg said, kissing him once more. "I'm sorry I stopped," he said, looking down at Nick. He was no longer hard.

"It's okay," Nick said, trying to keep his eyes open. "Lay down with me," he asked. Greg laid his head on Nick's chest. He took his hand in his. He smiled, feeling Nick playing with his hair.

***

Greg lifted his head up. He looked at the clock. It was almost 4 o'clock in the afternoon. "Shit," he said, feeling for Nick. All he felt was the sheets and blankets. He sat up. "Nick," he called out, walking towards the bathroom. He stopped, hearing the shower on. He looked inside. Nick was running a washcloth over himself singing a song Greg had never heard before. Greg leaned on the doorframe, listening to him. Country music was not his thing, but he liked Nick's voice.

"He's good, isn't he?"

Greg turned and stared at Justin. "Look, I know you got a sugar thing, so I'm sending Rhonda to the store. Give me a list of what you need," he said.

Greg nodded. "I don't want you to give him that shot anymore," he said, making the list.

"I don't think you have any right to tell me what to do here," Justin said.

"I could leave," Greg said, sitting the paper down.

"You wouldn't. He'd kill himself if you left again," Justin said, walking over to him.

"Not my problem," Greg said.

"You are a liar. You care about him," Justin said.

"Just give me a chance. I know I can help him. If I fail, give him the shot and I won't say a word," Greg said.

"Hmm, we could try that, but you have to follow my rules," Justin said.

Greg licked his lips and sat on the bed.

"You are a pain in the ass," Justin said. "Ok, I'll do it, but if I catch you breaking any of the rules, I'm done," he said, walking out of the room.

Greg got up and walked into the kitchen.

"My God, kid, put some cloths on!" Justin barked.

"I was told I couldn't have sex with him. That was one of the rules, but I may have to pull out all the stops to get him to sing on Sunday," Greg said.

Justin looked at him and smiled. "That is the only rule you can break," he said. "Now get out of here before I change my mind."

Greg turned and walked back into Nick's room. Nick walked out of the bathroom. He was running a towel over his hair to dry it off.

Nick sat on the bed and looked over at Greg. Greg walked over and touched his face.
"God, you're still on fire," he said, running his hands down his chest. "I need to talk to you," Greg said.

Nick looked up at him "Are you leaving?" Nick asked.

"No, please stop asking that. I'm not going to leave you again, I swear," Greg said, looking at him.

"I'm sorry," Nick said, looking down. Greg lifted his chin.

"We are going to the race on Sunday," Greg said.

Nick smiled. It was a bit of an uneasy smile.

"I'll be there. We're going to sit in our own suit, we'll get to tour the pits, you can meet any driver you want and after the race we can go in victory lane," Greg said, taking his hand.

"Will you be there?" Nick asked.

"Yeah, it will be a lot of fun," Greg said, rubbing his hand.

Nick looked away. "What do I have to do?"

"Sing before the race," Greg said.

Nick closed his eyes. "Pretty stupid, huh? A singer that can't sing in front of his own fans?"

"We can do it together, you and me," Greg said, seeing the panic in Nick's eyes.

Nick shook his head.

"Nick, look at me. There's more," he said.

"No, I can't. I'm....more?" Nick asked, the color leaving him.

Greg touched the bruise on his arm. "If you do this, they won't give you that shot anymore."

Nick looked up. He swallowed. "Really?" he whispered.

"Yeah. I talked to Justin about it. If we do this, they are over."

"But...." Nick said looking down.

"There isn't going to be any 'buts' because we will do it together," Greg said, resting his forehead on Nick's.

"I don't want to let you down," Nick said.

"You wont," Greg said, kissing him. Nick laid back and Greg laid down next to him.

"When I was younger, my mom had to home school me," Nick said. "I just couldn't go to school with others."

"Why?" Greg asked.

"I don't know. People just make me nervous," he said, taking Greg's hands. "I got made fun of a lot because I was so quiet. I'd sit in the back of the room and pray the teacher wouldn't call on me. I got sick a lot and would miss at least 2 or 3 days of school a week, so my parents and the school thought it was best if I went to see someone, but my parents didn't like the ideal of them...." he stopped and took a deep breath. He laughed a bit.

Greg looked at him. "What's so funny?" he asked.

"They didn't want me to be on a bunch of drugs to help me relax. They didn't believe in that stuff. So they thought putting me in home school would work and I'd grow out of it. It didn't help. It just made things worse for me," he said. "Ha, if they could see me now..." he said, looking at his arms.

Greg sighed.

"Eventually, I got a job. I drove cars from one lot to another, so they could be washed and detailed. Back and forth all day, I was the only one out there. Everyone else hated that job. I miss doing that. I love to drive," Nick said. "I don't remember much after that," he said. "It's all so blurry."

Greg pulled him closer.

"I'm glad you're here," Nick said.

"Me, too," Greg said, kissing him.

"Nick, get dressed," Amy said, walking into the room. She sat some clothes down for Nick.. "You, too, Greg."

"Wait, I thought you said I could relax here?"

"Relax, yes. Here, no," she said. "I've got a surprise for you. Now, get dressed." She turned and walked out of the room.

Nick slowly sat up. "What's going on?" he asked. He got up and started to put on the clothes Amy had set out for him.

"I have no idea," Greg said, picking up his pants. He put them on as well as his shirt.

"Amy, where are to taking them?" Justin asked.

"To a movie. Nick loves movies. I rented the whole theater," she said.

"Hmm, that's a good idea," he said. "I knew I kept you around for a reason."

She rolled her eyes and walked back into the kitchen.

Nick entered.

"You look nice," she said.

"I should," he said. "You picked it out."

"Where's Greg?" she asked.

"Testing his sugar levels and putting on his watch," Nick said, sitting down. "What's up?" he asked.

"I said it was a surprise," she said, touching him. "God, Nick, you're hot."

"I'm your brother," he said. "You are not supposed to think of me like that." He flashed a rare smile.

"Nicky," she said, smiling back it him. It was rare for him to be like this. The effects of most of the drugs were wearing off and Nick was acting like himself. "You still have a fever. Do you feel ok?" she asked.

"Hmm, yeah. No worse than usual," he said, smiling again as Greg walked into the room.

"Hmm, you look like....you," Amy said.

"Gotta love me," Greg said, taking Nick's hand. He put his backpack over his shoulder.

"Ok, lets go," she said, leading them to her car.

"Wait!" Justin yelled, running after them. "Take these," he said, giving Nick a cup of pills.
Amy looked at him. "Just his normal stuff. Greg and I have a deal, right, Greg?" he said as Nick swallowed the pills.

Greg nodded and again took Nick's hand, leading him to Amy's car.

Nick shook his head as he sat down.

Greg sat next to him. He sat his bag down at his feet. Nick laid his head on Greg's shoulders. Greg wiped the sweat off his face and forehead. He glanced up at Amy.
"I think he's getting sick," he said.

"He's always been warm blooded," she said, trying to hide the worry in her voice. She stopped the car and they got out. Greg lifted his bag and put his over his shoulder. Nick took Greg's hand.

"Not out here," she said

Nick smiled and let Greg's hand go as they walked to the movie theater.

"We get to go in through the back," she said "Follow me."

"What are we going to see?" Nick asked.

"That new Josh Hartnett movie," she said.

"That sounds really good," Nick said as they walked inside.

"Welcome," an older man said, meeting them. "Everything is all set up and ready," he said.

"Good. As long as there are no problems, you get everything we talked about," Amy said as they followed the old man.

"I hope this will do," he said as they walked into the small theater.

"Just us?" Nick asked, looking around seeing no one else.

"Yeah. I rented you the whole place."

"I will be back with your popcorn and drinks," the old man said.
"Pick as seat," Amy said.

Nick walked over to the middle of the room and sat down. Greg sat next to him. He sat his bag down in the chair next to him.

"The last time I was here, I.... Oh never mind," Greg said, blushing a bit.

Nick looked over at him. "You're shy?" he said.

"Well, I wasn't always proud of everything I did," Greg said, looking up. The old man returned with two big buckets of popcorn and two drinks.

"Here you are, sir," he said, sitting them down in front of Nick.

"I love popcorn," Nick said, reaching his hand into it. He removed a handful and tossed it into his mouth.
"I hope I got it right," the old man said, looking at Greg.
"Is it diet?" he asked.

"No, sir," the old man said.

"I told you, they both needed diet," Amy said, walking over to him.

"I'm so sorry. I'll fix it right away!" he said, rushing off. He returned with new drinks.

"Thanks," Greg said as he handed it to him.

"Is there anything, else?" he asked.

"No, this is fine," Nick said

"All right. I will go and start the movie," he said.

"Have you heard about this movie?" Nick asked.

"Yeah, a bit. I heard you shouldn't leave the room, or you'll miss something and be confused," Greg said.

"Hell, I'm always confused," Nick said, getting more popcorn. He looked back at Amy. She was a few rows behind them. Nick turned back around and took Greg's hand and leaned back.

"I hate previews," Nick said.

"Are you going to talk during the movie?" Greg asked.

"Yeah, I always do. I'm sorry."

Greg smiled and kissed him on the cheek.

"Talk away," he said, getting some popcorn for himself as the movie started.

***

"I'm so lost," Nick said as Greg touched his face. They had their arms around each other as they walked out of the theater.

"Don't worry I am ,too," Greg said, smiling and pulling away. He took his hands, leading him to the car.

"Well, if you guys weren't talking and kissing you wouldn't be lost," Amy said, unlocking the car. "Guys, we are outside, now," she reminded them.

"Sorry," Nick said, smiling as he got in. Greg stopped and looked over at a van in the parking lot.

"I just saw a light in there," Greg said as Amy looked up.

"Oh, shit," she said "Justin is going to kill me. You'll be on the front of every tabloid out there," she added, resting on the car. Greg waited for Nick to get into the car. He shut the door and walked over to the van.

"Greg, what are you doing?" Amy asked. "Greg, wait, stop...fuck, why don't you listen to me?" she yelled.

Greg walked over to the van and knocked on it. "I know you're in there. Open up!" he yelled, pounding on it harder. He pulled on the door and it opened.

"What the fuck are you doing?" a man yelled.

"I should ask you the same thing," he said, picking up a camera. "Like the man doesn't have enough stress in his life."

"I already saved them on my hard drive," he said, smiling.

"You're lying," Greg said, removing the memory card.

"I have lots of copies," he said.

"I'm sure you do," Greg said, looking around the van.

"Look, man, I have to make a living and the Nick is one of the hardest stars to get a picture of. I will get a hundred bucks a shot."

"Ah, no, you won't," Greg said, satisfied there wasn't another camera in the van.

"Oh, man, come on, this will be my big break," he said. "Please"

"Sorry, man, go find someone else," Greg said, walking away from the van.

"You're an asshole. I still got lots more," he yelled. "Mother fucker," he said, punching the van. There was no story without the photos.

Greg turned around and smiled at the man and walked over to Amy's car.

"Greg... Sometimes, you drive me....Thank you," she said as Greg tossed her the card.

"Anytime," he said, getting into the car.

Amy let out a big sigh and got into the car. "We are going to have to be much more careful," she said.

"I don't care what they think," Nick said, taking Greg's hand.

"Well, honey, right now it's not up to you," Amy said.

"Hm, it's never up to me," Nick said, resting his head on Greg's lap. "I'm hungry. Can we get something to eat?" he asked.

"Don't press your luck," Amy said, starting the car.

Nick closed his eyes as Greg ran his hands through is hair.

"What do you want?" Amy asked.

"Tacos," Nick said sitting up.

"Justin is going to kill me," Amy said under her breath. "Taco Hell it is."

Nick smiled and again rested his head on Greg.

'That's the way of out this hell hole,' Greg thought, rubbing his hand down his back.
Amy pulled into the drive thru.

"Do you want anything Greg?" she asked.

"Just the 3 soft taco meal," Greg said, looking down at his watch. Seventy-seven was on the face. "With a lemonade"

"Are you ok?" She asked.

"Yeah, I'm fine," he said as Nick sat up.

"I want the same thing," he said.

Amy ordered the meals and parked the car once they got their food. She waited for them to finish and tossed all the trash out.

"I mean it, Nick, don't you say a word to Justin about this," she said, starting the car again.

"I won't," he said, sitting back. He looked at Greg's watch.

"It says ninety, is that good?" he asked.

"Yeah, it's normal for me."

"That's kind of low, isn't it?" Amy asked.

"Yeah, but I can never get it up where it should be," he said, looking at her.

"You should have a pump. That would help," Amy said.

"What, are you an expert now?" Greg asked.

"I have a friend with diabetes and she has the pump. It really helped her out."

"Not interested," Greg said as they pulled up to the house.

"Oh, fuck. Why is Justin outside?" Amy asked, parking the car.

"Move over. I'm driving," Justin said as Amy slid over.

"Where are we going?" Nick asked.

"Well, we are going to see the stage for your performance on Sunday," Justin said. "See what you think and what we need to do to get it set up."

"Will I see the whole race?" Nick asked.

"Oh, yeah, either in the suite or on pit road. It's up to you," Justin said.

"Will Greg be there?" he asked.

"Nick, I think we are stuck with Greg for a long time," Justin said, looking back at him.

Nick smiled and looked at Greg. Greg smiled back and took his hand.


---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- -----

Greg walked out on the stage.

"Ok, stop right there," Justin said. "Hit the lights."

Greg squinted at the bright lights.

"What can you see?" he asked.

"Nothing," Greg said, covering his eyes. "He's gonna go blind up here."

"Yeah, but if it gets him to sing..." Justin said. "Ok, turn them down. Stay there, Greg," Justin ordered.

"Sing for us," Amy yelled.

"Ha ha. I don't sing," Greg said, looking around.

"Do you dance?" she asked.

"Nope, don't sing or dance," he said.

"Ok, hit the lights again."

Greg covered his eyes. "What about that?" Justin asked.

"No, I still can't see anything, but it's a little better," Greg said.

"Ok, that will work," Justin said. He looked over at Amy. "This is going to work, I can feel it," he said, smiling.

"I hope so. He's going to be able to hear everyone, though," she said, looking over at Nick. He was sitting on the ground. "Did you give him something?" she asked.

"Yeah, nothing bad, just the normal stuff," he said. "As long as Greg keeps up his side deal and Nick is calm, I will keep mine," he said. "He's going to have an ear piece, so that should block out most of his hearing," he added as Greg walked over to him.

"Ok, Nick, get up there," Justin said.

Nick looked up. Greg walked over to him and held out his hand.

"I don't wanna do this," Nick whispered.

"You have to," Greg said, taking his hand and pulling him up. "Trust me, it will be fine. I will be there the whole time," he said.

"But, I..." Nick said, looking at the stage. "Will I be able to see you?" he asked as Greg lead him to the stage.

"Oh, yeah. I'll stand right where you can see me. I won't move."

"You can fucking look at him the whole time, Nick," Justin said.

"I'm fine," Nick shouted. "I will be ok. Please, don't give me that shot."

"Nick, relax," Greg said, touching his face. "It's ok. I'm hear and I won't let him, I swear to you."

Nick rested his head on Greg's forehead and took his hands.

"I don't wanna be here all night," Justin said as Greg pulled away. He led Nick up to the stage.

"Where do I stand?" Nick asked, swallowing. He wiped the sweat off his forehead.

"See the big X in the middle of the stage?" Justin yelled, shaking his head. "Stand on it!"

Amy rolled her eyes and Greg lead Nick over the X. Greg started to back away.

"Wait, where are you going?" Nick asked, panic running through.

"Over here. I can't be on stage with you," He said, pulling his hand away from the now shaking singer.

"But...."

"I'll be right here," Greg said, once he was off the main stage. "See, you can still see me, right?" he asked.

Nick nodded and turned to face Greg.

"Nick, you gotta face forward," Amy said, walking closer to the stage. "I'm not so sure about this..." she said.

"That's why we are practicing," Justin said. He lifted his phone. "Lights!" he said.

Nick jumped back a bit and covered his eyes. "I can't see anything," he said, looking over at Greg.

"Can you still see me?" he asked, stepping forward.

Nick nodded.

"See, that's the trick Nick," Justin said. "You won't see anyone, so it will be like you are singing at the studio or at home in the shower. See? You can do this," he said.

Nick again looked at Greg then looked out at the lights. "They hurt my eyes," he said, still covering them.

"You have to get used to them," Justin said, smiling. "See? I told you," he said.

"Nick, are you ok?" Amy asked.

Nick nodded and again looked at Greg.

"You'll have two ear pieces, as well," Justin said. "So, you won't hear anything either. Kill the lights!"

He looked at Amy and smiled. "Sing the National Anthem," Amy said.

Nick sighed and looked over at Greg.

"You know, he's going to look at him the whole time he's out there," she said as Nick started to sing.

"Lights!" Justin said. Nick flinched, but kept on singing.

"Hm," Justin said. "I wonder if there is any place else we can put him, so Nick won't be staring to the side," he said, rubbing his head.

"Nick, that was fucking awesome. You are the man," Justin said. "You are gonna kill them on Sunday," he said, walking on the stage.

"Thanks," Nick said, looking down. Justin shielded his eyes and looked around. Greg started to walk over to them.

"Stop right there, Greg!" Justin yelled as Amy walked onto the stage as well.

Greg stopped and crossed his arms over his chest.

"What do you think?" Justin asked.

"You are so good, Nick," she said, looking around. "If you put him anywhere else, they will see him," she said.

"See who?" Nick asked.

"Nick, don't worry about it," Justin snapped. "Sometimes, you can be so stupid..." he said under his breath.

Nick looked down and picked at the floor with the toe of his shoe. He shifted his weight back and forth a bit.

"Well, I have plans tonight, so we will figure that part out later," Justin said, walking off the stage.

Greg took that as his cue to rejoin the group, so he walked over to Nick. He took Nick's hand.

"Man, I didn't know you could really sing," Greg said, smiling.

Nick looked up and smiled. "Did I do ok?" he asked.

"Yeah, the best I've heard," Greg said.

Nick looked down.

"Let's go," Justin yelled.

Nick sighed and Greg pulled him forward.

"My head hurts," Nick said, touching his forehead.

"It's from the lights," Justin snapped, not in the mood for his whining. If not for his deal with Greg, he would have already given Nick a shot.

"He still feels hot," Greg said as they walked over to the car.

"He was standing under a bunch of hot lights!" Justin yelled. "Get in the car, so we can go home. I do have a life, you know."

Greg got in and Nick sat next to him. Amy got in as well, and looked at Nick.

"Don't start. He's fine," Justin barked.

Amy nodded and looked out the window.

"Nicky, as a treat, I'm going to take you to Taco Bell," he said.

Nick looked up and smiled. "Can I get tacos?" he asked.

"You can get whatever you want," Justin said.

"Oh, I want nachos," Nick said. "With everything, and a taco," he added.

"Nachos and one taco, it is. Greg, what about you?" Justin asked, looking back at him through the mirror.

"I'll have the same thing," he said, brushing his hand on Nick's knee. Nick smiled.

"Popcorn and tacos in one day," Nick said, smiling.

"Yeah, well, don't get used to it," Justin said and Nick looked down. Greg closed his eyes ran squeezed his knee. Nick looked up and smiled.

***

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