Date: Sun, 23 May 1999 10:28:11 CDT From: River Shant Subject: 'NSYNC-Brush with Fame-Chapter 3 Disclaimer: This story is fiction. This does not imply anything about the members of *N SYNC. If you do not like it then don't read it. `NSYNC-Brush with Fame Life went on as usual. I tried to forget about what had happened between me and Justin but I couldn't seem to shake the thoughts out of my head. Practice became my savior. It would clear my mind for at least two hours. What made it worse was that my friends had told everyone they knew about it. This meant everyone was talking about it and forcing me to talk about it also. I would've gone depressed if I didn't have Stellara. A few weeks later, Stell and I were practicing in the studio and my phone rang. Well since I knew that I wouldn't be able to hear a phone in my loud studio, I had someone rig up a flashing light to tell me the phone was ring. I was too busy to notice so Stell ran out and got the phone. "Hello," she asked. "Hi. Would river happen to be in," the voice on the other line responded. "Sure is, but he is kind of busy, is this important," Stellara questioned. "Umm, not really, I just wanted to talk to him, I haven't seen him in a while," the voice said. "Oh okay, when he is done I'll have him call you back, may I ask who's speaking," Stellara asked. "Yeah could you tell him this is Justin, and just to call me back whenever he gets a chance," Justin whimpered. "Damn it Justin! Why didn't you say it was you? This is Stellara. Let me go get him," Stellara said excitedly. "Wait Stell," Justin called out, "Don't tell him it's me though, please." "Sure thing," Stellara replied while she shot down the hall into the studio. I was dancing my brains out, trying to prepare myself for the competition that we were attending in two days. I turned and looked as Stellara burst through the door. "Go get the phone, it sounds important!" "Who is it," I asked. "I don't know," she shrugged, "But it does sound important." I made my way down the hall to the phone and picked up the receiver. "Hello," I asked. "River?" "Yah, it's me. May I ask who's speaking please?" "Riv it's me Justin. I can't believe you don't recognize my voice. Why haven't you kept in touch," he asked. "Oh wow. It's nice to talk to you again Just. I'm really sorry, but I've been so busy and it's been really hard to think about it when I have all this stuff coming at me," I lied. "You mean you haven't thought about me at all," he asked rather sadly. "Okay, I'm lying. The truth is Justin that I can't keep myself from thinking about you and every time I try to get in touch I just get too sad to pick up the phone. It's just not the same over the phone like it is in real life," I said with in a tear in my eye, "I really miss you Justin." I began crying, and I couldn't stop myself. "Riv, don't cry. I know how you feel," he commented obviously trying to calm me down, " But we're gonna have to learn to work around this if we want this to really work." "I know Justin, I'll try," I said controlling the sons, "I promise to make more of an effort to keep in touch." "Good," he said while in the background someone began yelling at him, "Look River, I have to get going, the show starts in 20 minutes. I'll talk to you soon." "Okay," I said, "I'll call you later. Bye." "Bye." I hung the phone up and walked back into the studio on the brink of tears that I forced back. Stellara stopped what she was doing and walked over to me. As soon as I looked at her I broke down and began crying on her shoulder. "River, what's wrong," she said. I couldn't keep it from her any longer so I spilled everything. After my fit of emotion, she comforted me and everything was better. National Dance Competition Finals in Orlando, Florida. I was a wreck. My nerves had crept their ways up to my brain and were beginning to affect me mentally. I just couldn't take it. But I persevered because I knew how much it meant to Stellara. We had already done our short program and technical portion. All that was left was the long program. Stellara and I drew last position and had to sit through the other competitors' dances. It wasn't all that bad because it gave us a chance to scope out the competition. We stepped out onto the mat and took our starting pose. The music began and something came over me. I was possessed by the music. My body just seemed to know what to do without thinking about it. I knew we were doing well by the occasional cheers of the crowd, which were beginning to become more and more frequent after each move. All that was left was the back tuck catch. We positioned, I nodded, and bingo, she flipped and I caught her. The crowd went stark raving mad with delight. I released her, and we bowed. After exiting the stage the other competitors came up to congratulate us on a well given performance. Mostly asking about the last move. Where did it come from? Who made it up? How do you do it? And stuff along those lines. Stell and I walked out onto the mat with the other contestants during the presentation of awards. They began announcing the winners. Third place went to some oversized Kentucky team. Second place to this really cute girl who must have only been 14. "And now ladies and gents, tonight's first place winners are," the speaker paused deliberately, "River and Stellara of Team Illusion!" I just looked at Stell in disbelief as she ran up to the front to be recognized. I followed rather dumbfounded but finally regained composure. "And to present the award will be our celebrity guests, `NSYNC. Come on out here guys," he said as if he knew them. I went right back into shock as I saw Chris, Joey, Lance, JC, and Justin-the Justin I hadn't seen in ages- run out of the side corridor up to the front. "What are you guys doing here," Stellara questioned. "Well he kinda had an idea that you guys might take it so we had our manager set us up with presenting," Lance said. "Congratulations," Justin said as he walked over to me and smiled that smile and handed me my trophy and my 25 grand. I almost fainted. I wanted to kiss him so bad. "I can't believe you did this," I said in a smile to him. "It was all my idea," he smirked, "I had to see you." "And now for the grand prize," the announcer interrupted, "you will be featured in a music video. This year's musician is the rising star Britney Spears. Come on out here Britney." Then this girl ran out and I just ogled her. She was gorgeous. I couldn't stop staring. "Hi," she said, "Congratulations, you guys have some great moves. Especially that last one, I definitely want to see that one in my video." I didn't respond I just stared. "You can wipe the drool off you mouth now," Justin said rather annoyed. I looked at him and blushed. "I'm so sorry Justin, but look at her, she could turn me straight!" "Not funny," was all he said as he walked off. Oh shit, I pissed him off. This was not good. I followed after him but was interrupted by this really over anxious pop star. "Hi. We haven't formally been introduced, I'm Britney," she commented as she flipped her hair. I must admit she was gorgeous. "Hi. The name's River. I'm really happy to be able to work with you. I've admired your stuff for a while. I mean, we did use your song and all. Have you met sell yet," I said trying to get away, she said no, " Hey Stell! Get over here and meet our new boss. I'm sure you guys have so much to talk about. So if you'll excuse me, there's some business I have to clear up." Stellara shot me this look but I pleaded with her with my eyes and she nodded. I ran after Justin backstage and found him sulking in a chair. I slowed my pace and sat down next to him. "Just, it was only a joke. I'm not leaving you for that, for no one. I really like you and I want us to be together. Maybe I can stay down here longer and we can spend time together. Just you and me." As soon as I spoke my last sentence his face lit up. "Really? You're gonna stay," he said beaming a smile, "That would be awesome!" He hugged me. It really startled me at first but then it comforted me. I looked around to see if anyone was around. No one. So I leaned in for the kill, I mean kiss. Our lips met and just rested there, making acquaintance once more. I was in heaven. I had been waiting for this moment since the last time he kissed me at my house. There was a noise coming down the hall so we pulled apart. I looked at him and he smiled. He was completely gorgeous. And completely mine. We left the competition and went back to the hotel. From there we were going to meet the guys and Britney for dinner. I really didn't want to be somewhere public because of the chance of them being noticed so I suggested a dinner on the beach, which everyone agreed to. A limo pulled up in front of our hotel and picked us up. Everyone was already inside so we said our hellos and made our way to the beach. During the drive we tried to hold conversation but Britney kept a constant hold on the imaginary talking stick. If there was a talking stick, I'm sure Stellara would have loved to beat her with it. We pulled up to the beach and everyone got out holding bags of food. Stellara, Justin, and I lagged behind and she whispered to us, "Hold me back guys, I'm about to kick me some Britney bootie!" We had to laugh. "Stell just be nice," I said trying to ease the tension. "Yeah, Stellara, I don't think she really knows just how annoying she really is," Justin added. "I guess," Stellara sighed. I smiled. We made our way onto the space that the guys and Britney had designated as good picnic sand. It was exactly the same as every other plot on the beach but Britney made sure that it was perfect. We don't want her to be imperfect now do we? We sat. I was next to Justin on one side, Britney on the other side. Stell sat next to JC and Lance. Chris and Joey were to busy eating to think about where to sit. I started making meaningless conversation with Justin and of course "Little Miss Britney" had to butt it. She kept talking to Justin. Not to me and Justin, just him. I felt left out and Justin didn't seem to be including me either so I got up and went and sat with Stell, JC, and Lance. When I sat next to Stellara I noticed that JC and Lance were sitting kinda close. I eyed JC and he smiled back at me. I kinda motioned with my head towards Lance and he nodded in affirmation. I was so happy for him, but I wanted to know the scoop so I got up and asked if JC wanted to walk with me. He agreed and was off. Justin asked if he could come but I told him I'd rather just walk with JC right now. He looked down and I kinda smiled. I'm not really an evil person but if he was gonna get mad at me over Britney and then goes and does the same thing, he deserved it. JC and I walked far enough away for them not to hear us and I started asking him for the 411. "So spill," I said rather excitedly. "Well," he started, "It just kinda happened one night. It's a funny story actually." "Then tell me!" "Then let me," he retorted, "Well one night on the tour bus I was walking to the fridge to get something to drink. Everyone was a sleep so I tried to be as quiet as possible. I got my water and while I was walking back toward my bunk the bus hit a bump. I was right next to Lance's bunk and the bump knocked me forward into it. When I opened my eyes, I noticed Lance's dick staring me right in the face. He was, you know, relieving some stress. I just looked up at him and smiled. Then I made my move. I wrapped my mouth over his." "I get the picture," I said cutting him off. "And we've been together ever since. But you have to promise me you won't say anything, he is really scared that the guys will find out and kick us out," he said morosely. "I really wouldn't worry about them." "I know, that's what I keep telling him. But he just won't let me say anything. Please don't tell him I told you. Let him tell you," he pleaded. "No problem," I comforted him, " Your secret is safe with me." Right when I said that he pulled me in a deep hug. I was shocked. It felt like I knew him forever even though I just met him months ago. I was glad that he trusted me. And plus it felt good to be held, seeing as though Justin and little miss bimbo were getting all cozy. We walked back to where everyone was sitting and there were all laughing at Joey and Chris making fools of themselves. Chris was dancing around like a little ballerina while Joey was doing an Irish jig. "What's going on," I asked. "They're making fun of us," Stellara answered between laughs. I joined her on the ground and began laughing. I looked over towards Justin and he was staring at me, hardcore. He had this hurt sad puppy dog type expression on his face. I smiled and stuck my tongue out at him. He smiled and was about to stick his famous tongue out back at me but Britney pulled him up onto his feet by the arm. "Let's show them how it's done, Just," she squealed. Then she busted out into the most hoochiest, ghetto mamma dance I had ever seen. I think she was being serious, but it was pretty damn funny. She started rubbing herself all over Justin while he looked at me. I rolled my eyes at him and went back to laughing at Britney. Stellara got up and pulled me to my feet. "I'm gonna show Britney what she looks like," Stellara chimed as she started dancing worse than Britney. It was bad, I mean raunchy. I started in on it. We had everyone laughing, even Britney, who seemed upset at first that we were making fun of her. We went on for another hour imitating each other and finally decided it was time to pack up and get back to the hotels. We pulled up to my hotel and Stellara and I stepped out of the limo. We said our good byes and while I was saying goodbye to Justin he mouthed the words "I'll call you". I nodded and we proceeded into the hotel. I said goodnight to Stell, who was really bushed from all the excitement, and entered my room. About and hour later my phone rang. "Hello," I asked. "Hey guy," Justin answered. "Sorry I didn't order a pizza," I joked. "Real funny Riv. So did you have a good night?" "Great fun," I answered, "Especially seeing you and Britney all up on each other." "Hey I had nothing to do with that," he said innocently, "I think she has a crush on me." "Well she's not doing a good job of hiding it," I kidded. "Yeah, I guess so. So when are we gonna get to spend some quality time together," he questioned rather anxiously. "Whenever you can find some free time for me," I said in a faux crying voice. "Whatever! How about tomorrow," he asked. "Sounds good," I said as I stepped out on the balcony to smoke a cigarette. "Then it's settled," he replied, "How's noon?" "Word. I hope I can wake up that early, I've been really tired lately," I said. I really was exhausted. "Then it's settled. I'll se you tomorrow. Now get some sleep, you sound horrible," he just had to add that in. "Thanks," I said sarcastically, "Alright then, tomorrow it is. I'll talk to you later." "Good night," he said. "Good night Justin." I put out what was left of my cigarette and walked bake into my room. After I had shut the door I climbed into my bed and drifted into dreamland. In the morning I was awoken by a knock at my door. I made my way to the door and opened it expecting it to be some room cleaner, housekeeping lady. It was Justin, with a cart of food. He pushed his way in the room followed by the cart he was pulling. I scratched my head and said, "I thought you said noon?" "I did, but I woke up early and decided to surprise you," he said with an insanely self-proud smile on his face. "Here I brought you some breakfast, grub up." "Thanks," I replied as I sat down and began eating. "So what is in store for me today?" "Well you, the lucky winner, has just won a day with the fabulous Justin Timberlake of `NSYNC," he resounded in an announcers voice. The he shrugged and said, "I really don't know, I thought we could just chill here for a while and talk." "I think that sounds marvelous kind sir," I said with an English accent in between my bites of food. I finished my breakfast and decided I need to take a shower. I got all my stuff together and told Justin to entertain himself while I took a shower. He said okay. I stepped into the water stream and let the water flow down my body. Damn this felt good. I began lathering up myself with the complimentary soap that every hotel leaves in the bathroom while I sang. It was a ballad that I had just composed for my band. I guess I was singing so loudly that I didn't hear the shower door open. I felt a hand on my back and nearly jumped through the ceiling. I turned to see Justin flashing me those pearly whites of his. I really didn't know what to do. The shower is kinda a sacred place for me. But he soon quelled my confusion with a kiss. It was deep and forceful. But I loved it. I was backed against the shower walls while his hands caressed my sides. "Justin," I pleaded, "Nothing else. Just this. We're taking this slowly. I don't mind being naked with you but that's all." "Understood," was all he said as he began kissing me again. We made out for what seemed to be an eternity. In all actuality it was only like half an hour but I didn't care. I turned the shower off and stepped out. I turned around and looked at Justin. It was then when I realized just how gorgeous he was. I looked at his tall, slender physique and immediately spaced out. His legs were perfect, his chest was perfect, his arms were perfect, his face was perfect, and his cock was more than perfect. And it wasn't even hard. It was an average size but it was beautiful. Everything was exactly where it should be, I mean it was like a display at a department store. Even his pubic hair was perfect. Textbook certainty. "Hey River, earth to River," he said, which snapped me out of my trance. "Umm yeah?" "Could I have a towel?" I blushed and threw him a towel. We dried and entered my room again. I put on some boxers and flopped down on my bed. I turned to see that my phone was flashing a little red light that meant I had a message. I picked up the phone and dialed for messages. It was Stellara; she called to tell me that she would be out with JC and Lance all day trying to avoid Britney. I had to laugh at the message. Justin walked into the room with his boxers on and laid down next to me. I put my head on his chest and he turned the tellie on. We lay there just watching TV for a few hours and ended up falling asleep. I woke up at about 9:30pm and decided to wake him. "What," he said groggily. "It's 9:30, do you have to be back?" "Really? 9:30 already? Yeah I guess I should get going," he said sadly. He got up and put on his clothes and I walked him to the door. I opened the door to let him out and he turned and said, "River, I had a great time with you. I know we really didn't do anything, but just being with you makes me feel so, uh, complete. I think I love you." My jaw hit the floor! He said it. He loved me. I grabbed him by the collar and pulled the door closed. "What are you doing," he asked nervously. "Do you really think I would let you leave after that," I said as I pulled him in for a kiss. After we parted I pushed him down on the bed. Tonight I was ready to share with him what I had never shared with another guy. TBC. I'm such a tease aren't I? Well that was chapter three. Sorry that I'm making you guys wait to see what happens, I know you really want to know. Just be patient. I want to thank everyone for responding to my stories; it gives me a reason to keep writing. And of course, if you have any comments or suggestions please feel free to e-mail me at groundwriter@hotmail.com. The next chapter will be up very soon.