Date: Wed, 20 Feb 2002 21:10:43 -0800 (PST) From: AJ Shukla Subject: Josh and Just 57 **** No message, just enjoy reading!**** Josh and Just 57 "Ben! Amy! Get ready, your papa is coming to get you and take you to the dinner!" Justin yelled. He ran a hand over his scruffy goatee and looked up the stairs. He saw an aged Golden Retriever, Dalmatian, and Malamute hopping down the stairs. They ran to Justin who was dressed in polo shirt tucked into a pair of jeans. He made his way to the living room to wait for his children. "Daddy! Ben took my picture. I was going to give it to Papa." Amy said as she came down the stairs sadly. She began to cry as she made her way to her father. She hopped on the couch and curled up in his lap. "Sweet Pea. You are five years old now. No crying okay. We will get it back." Justin promised. "Benjamin Jeremy Chasez, get down here right now." Justin said turning to direct his voice toward the stairs. "Dad! I didn't do it." Ben said running into the room with two pieces of paper. "Then who's pictures do you have." Ben replied. "Both of them?" Justin asked. "Yeah." Ben said hesitantly. "He's lying, that one is mine!" Amy said pointing to her picture. "Ben, it's not nice to take your sister's things, and it's not nice to lie either." Justin said bringing him close. "I know." Ben replied, as he looked down at the floor. "I want you to apologize to your sister and give back her picture." Justin stated. Ben looked up at his father and then at his sister. "I'm sorry." Ben said handing to paper to her. Amy took the picture and held onto it while staying in her father's lap. "Now I want both of you to go put on your shoes because your father's coming to take you to dinner." Justin said. Both kids ran out of the room and into the hallway. Justin heard the sound of a doorbell and went to answer it. As he opened the door, he saw JC standing in the doorway speaking with a man both dressed a little bit above casual. They exchanged smiles before noticing the door open. "Hey Justin. The kids ready yet?" JC asked standing outside. "Now why don't you come in." Justin said as he moved aside to allow them both to enter. Justin watched the other man suspiciously before giving him a smile when he made eye contact. They filed into the living room where Justin and the man took a seat on the opposite sides of the room. JC stood and looked around the living room a bit. "Hey Pete, you see this painting, My brother painted that when we first moved into the house." JC said pointing out the painting on the wall. He admired the landscape and turned to see Justin staring at him. "Oh I'm sorry. Pete, this is Justin. Justin this is. . . my boyfriend, Pete." JC responded. Pete gave him a small wave and a smile while Justin did the same with a false sense of hospitality. JC took a seat on the recliner while he waited. "Papa!" He heard Ben and Amy yell. Her turned a bit and saw both kids running toward him. Ben jumped into his lap and gave him a big hug while Amy stayed by his legs. "Hey guys! I missed you so much!" JC said as he gave them a big hug. "Where are we going for dinner Papa?" Ben asked as he toyed with JC's tie. "How bout Italian? You guys want some Italian? Some Pusghetti, just like Uncle Joey makes for you guys?" JC asked. "Yea!!!!" Amy said happily. "I don't want pusghetti." Ben said as he continued to toy with the tie. "You don't want pusghetti? Okay we'll get you. . . ravioli. You love ravioli!" JC said as he poked Ben with a finger. Ben hopped and started to laugh just as JC started to tickle him. Justin watched JC and their son with a smile on his face. "Papa, who's that?" Amy asked, pointing to Pete. "That's Papa's friends, Sweet Pea. He's going to be around a lot. Why don't you go say hi to him?" JC suggested. Amy walked over to the man and smile shyly. "Hi." Se said, with a humble smile. "Hey Cutie." Pete responded. Justin stood up and walked out of the room suddenly, causing JC to cast a glance at his retreating figure. "I'll be back. Ben why don't you go say Hi to Pete okay?" JC said as he put the boy down on the floor and followed Justin into the kitchen. "What's wrong?" JC asked, taking a seat on the counter top. "You are asking me what's wrong? You bring your boyfriend into my house and flaunt him, and then ask me what's wrong?" Justin asked in return. Facing JC with a stern face. "Justin you can't be possibly jealous of him!" JC said. Justin sighed and began to walk toward the backyard. "Justin! You can't expect me to stay single for long. I mean he likes me and I like him." JC retorted. "But you just flaunt it as if I don't matter." Justin replied. "You know it wasn't my idea to get divorced. If my memory is correct, it was you and your crazy idea that I didn't spend enough time with you or your friends. So don't blame me, cause you are alone." JC snapped. "Papa?" a small voice asked. JC spun around to see Ben standing there with a frown on his face. "Hey BJ. What's up?" JC asked as he slowly knelt to Ben's level. "Are you fighting?" He asked sadly. JC wrapped both arms around his son as he came closer. "No buddy, Dad and I are just have a conversation." JC replied. Ben laid his head down on JC's shoulder as JC stood up once again. "Can we go eat now?" Ben asked. "Sure thing Buddy boy. But first give your father a kiss and a hug!" JC said. Ben ran over to Justin and jumped into his arms. "Bye Daddy!" Ben said as he hugged his father tightly. "Bye Beej, I love you." Justin said. "Love you too." Ben said as he walked out of the room with his father. Justin stood alone in the kitchen before hearing the patter of shoes over the floor. Amy ran into the room and gave her father a hug. "Bye Sweetheart. Love you." Justin said. "Love you more." Amy said as she kissed her father's cheek before running out of the room. Justin followed his daughter out into the foyer where he watched JC help Ben put on his coat while Pete held Amy's. Amy slipped her coat on and stepped out of the room with Ben. JC cast one last look at Justin and took Pete's hand. "Bye Justin. I'll bring them home early." JC said as walked out of the house. He closed the door, leaving Justin alone in the big house. Justin sat up straight in bed in a cold sweat and with shallow breath. He looked around at the dark empty room that seemed foreign to him. He looked down at the side of the bed and found it empty. He gently placed his hand down on JC's side of the bed and felt the cold sheets that lay touched only by Justin's movements. Justin ran his hands through his slightly curly hair as he let out a deep sigh. He threw back the covers and stepped out of the bed. He shivered at the cold air that washed over his bare chest and bare feet. His pajama pants swayed as he made his way out of the room. He walked past the area at the top of the stairway. He looked at the homely family area; the couches all facing the TV and the fire place. He noticed JC's absence from the couch. `Maybe he is sleeping no the downstairs couch.' Justin thought. He continued to the other hall where his children's room was. He walked into the room, hearing a light gurgling sound. He was welcomed with the sight of Amy standing in the crib, holding the bas with her tiny hands. Justin smiled at the sight of his daughter and walked over to her. "Hey Sweet Pea. Why don't you get to bed like your brother?" Justin asked. He lifted her up and carried her to the rocking chair where he took a seat with her in his lap. "Amy, I know you know about your fathers are fighting, but you don't have to worry sweetheart, we're just working some things out okay? We are not going to get divorced okay?" Justin whispered to his daughter as he continued to rock. Justin popped out of bed when he heard the doorbell chime through the house. He rubbed his throbbing forehead and slowly got out of bed. He walked to the dresser and pulled out a jersey that read `JC' on the back. He slipped it on and ran down the hallway. As he hopped down the stairs he let out a small yawn as his eyes adjusted to the incoming light. Justin pulled open the door and gazed directly into the sunlight which silhouetted the two figures in the light. "You look like shit." The voice announced. "Thanks Danny, come on in." Justin said groggily. Justin lead the way to the living room where he crashed onto the couch, curling up to a ball as he clutched onto a pillow. "Are you okay?" Danny asked as he sat on the love seat with his friend. "Tired." Justin mumbled. "Where is JC?" Danny asked. "Took your godchildren somewhere I think." Justin said as he sat up for the first time. For the first time he looked at the blond girl who smiled at him politely. "Justin, this is Julie, We were on the Real World together." Danny introduced. "Oh yeah! You're the Mormon. I've heard so much about you!" Justin said as he stood up and shook her hand. She giggled nervously. "She's an N sync fan." Danny said. "Oh, cool. Well, welcome to our abode. Josh would be here but he's out." Justin repeated. "What's up? You seem kinda down." Danny said. "Josh and I have been fighting for over two weeks now. I mean Christmas was horrible. And We started fighting on our anniversary and now it's almost the New Year and we are still fighting." Justin sighed. "That's not good. What happened?" Danny questioned. "Well I brought up the point that he doesn't hang out with my friends but he expects me to go to all his things with him. And then it just got worse from there." Justin said shaking his head. "I think both of you are have conflicting perceptions of what is going on." Danny said. "I agree. . . Sorry, didn't mean to butt in." Julie apologized. "It's alright. At this point, I'll take any advice I can get right now." Justin sighed. "Okay here me out. You say he drags you to these things for the sake of appearances. Well have you ever thought that these things that he goes to are really boring, and he wants you to come so that he can not only spend quality time together but also have something to look forward to?" Danny asked. "Yeah that's true, but why doesn't he hang out with my friends?" Justin asked. "I don't know Justin. Maybe he doesn't like them." Danny shrugged. "Yeah Maybe. So what brings you two to Orlando? Where's Paul?" Justin questioned. "Well Julie came to visit and saw some pictures of Ben and Amy on my mantle and wondered who they were. I said they were my grandchildren and your kids and she didn't believe me. So I brought her down." Danny said. "Do you guys want to hit the town?" Justin questioned. "Yeah sure." Danny said looking at Julie for an answer. "Sure." Julie shrugged. "Any preferences where?" Justin asked. "How about a tourist attraction? I've never been to Florida." Julie claimed. "Okay I know just the place." Justin said hopping up. Lance lay sleeping on the couch with the late afternoon sun illuminating his clothed form. The sun slowly crept his up his face until it slowly covered his eyes. Britney walked through the living room on the way to the kitchen and smiled at the sight of Lance, laying haphazardly on the couch. She walked over to the couch and gently brought herself down onto Lance. She laid her head on Lance's chest and pulled him close while he slowly started to shift with drowsiness. "Britney?" Lance mumbled. "Hmm?" Britney asked. Lance let out a content sigh and wrapped his arms around the woman. "I love you." He mumbled. "I love you too." Britney replied. They stayed like that for a couple of more minutes before Britney slowly started to rise. "Brit, could you possibly close the curtains?" Lance asked. "Sure thing baby." Britney responded. She made her way to the window which looks out into the front yard and saw JC heading towards their door with Ben snoozing on his shoulder and a car seat with Amy in his hand. Britney closed the blinds and made her way to the front door before JC had a chance to ring the doorbell. "Hey Josh." Britney said happily. "Hey Brit. Thank you so much for watching the kids." JC said as he rushed into the house. "Is there a room where I can put Ben while he sleeps?" JC asked. "I have a better idea." Britney said as she took a hold of Ben and walked into the living room. She gently and carefully placed the boy down onto Lance's chest. Lance startled awake and looked down at the boy on his chest. He rested back again and placed a protective arm on the boy while he slept. "So where is Justin today?" Britney asked with a bitter expression. "He is hanging with friends I think." JC replied. "Someone needs to talk some sense into him." Britney claimed. "I don't know. It's been two and a half weeks since we had that fight and he still won't talk to me unless it's about the kids or it is something I need to know." JC replied. "And he still hasn't told you the whole story?" Britney asked. "Other than the fact that I don't pay attention to him and his friends and that I am always dragging him to my parties but I never go to his." JC huffed as he walked into the kitchen, following Britney. "What parties? All you ever take him to are those black tie things that you have to go to and you've only gone to two." Britney said opening the fridge and pulling out a carton of milk. She walked to the cabinet and pulled out two glasses. She put them on the table and poured two glasses. She slid the glass to where JC sat at the counter while he took Amy out of the car seat on the floor. He sat her in his lap while he took a sip. "I don't know, he is pissed at me." JC mumbled. "And while we are on the subject, he doesn't have any dinners to go to. That's why you don't go with him." Britney claimed as she pulled out a box of cereal which she ate straight out of the box. "What do I do? Not only does my heart ache, but my back does too. The couch is not comfortable." JC said arching his back as he stretched. "You know I don't know JC? I wish I could give you the answer but I don't know. Have you tried hanging out with his friends and showing him that you do care about them?" Britney asked. "I guess I haven't, I could try." JC said sullenly. "I personally think you are doing a great job, but if you want to start talking with Justin again, I would hang out with his friends. Even if that means hanging out with that slimy Trace." Britney claimed. "You don't like him either?" JC asked. "Nuh uh. He's just soo. . . so. . .reclusive. He doesn't talk to anyone yet has so much control over Justin. I know they are close friends, closer then I'll ever be to Justin. But I dunno. . .he's just weird." Britney shuddered and walked to her pantry "Do you want a muffin? I made them myself!!" Britney said pulling out a box with homemade muffins placed inside. "I dunno if I should trust them." JC said, glancing at them with a curious eye. "Come on, Lance helped make them." Britney coaxed. "Oh then I definitely don't want to eat them." JC said turning away. Britney picked one up and pressed it to JC's mouth, smearing it over his shut lips. "Oops, it touched you, guess you have to eat it now." Britney said putting the box down as well as the muffin in front of JC. JC grudgingly took a bite. "It's hard!" JC said as he chewed the food dramatically. "Don't you have somewhere to be going right now?" Britney said, taking offense. "Hmm! Thanks for reminding me." JC said getting up. He handed Amy over to Britney, who gladly took her. "Bye Sweet Pea. Love you." JC said, pressing his lips to her cheek before running out of the room. "Wow! I've never been to Disney World!" Julie said excitedly. "Wow you are pretty enthused." Justin snickered, slipping sunglasses over his face. He hugged onto the mock turtleneck sweater that clothes his upper torso. "You would be too. I mean I'm at the happiest place on earth with one of the biggest heartthrobs in pop music today as well as with the hottest guy on the Real World." Julie said, taking both of their arms and continuing to walk down the street. Justin followed the excited Julie to the line of yet another ride. As they stood waiting, they began to hear conversations pop up. Two girls behind them were talking about the recent political controversies. Next to them they listened in to a couple in an argument. In front of them they heard a man talking to a girl about what he was up to recently. Justin zoned in no that conversation, listening intently to the familiar voices. "Hey Justin, that guy up there has a jersey with your name on it." Danny pointed. Justin looked past everyone ahead of him and saw a jersey with Timberlake written on it. "Josh!" Justin yelled. The man turned around to reveal the familiar face. "Hey Just! Hey Danny! Why don't you guys move up?" JC asked. The three of them moved ahead a couple of spots in line to join up with JC and the girl he was with. "Hey Justin, you remember Caitlin right?" JC asked as he put his arm around her to bring her closer. Justin gave JC a suspicious look before giving her a smile. "Yeah. hey Kate." Justin smiled. "It's Caitlin." Caitlin corrected. "Oh I'm sorry." Justin automatically responded, turning toward JC. "Josh, Danny brought his friend Julie. Julie this is JC." Justin introduced. "Hi." Julie smiled brightly. "Nice to meet you." JC said shaking her hand in return. They all stood around awkwardly waiting for their time for the ride. "So where are the kids?" Justin asked softly. "Brit has them." JC responded making brief eye contact. "I was thinking of ordering in for dinner, you up for it?" Justin questioned. "Sure, I'm okay with anything." JC shrugged. Justin rolled his eyes and looked ahead in the line. He let out a sigh and gave a nervous smile to Danny and Julie before slumping against the railing. Britney bobbed around Ben who was red eyed and wide awake while Amy played on the couch with Lance happily. She bounced by Lance and leaned down briefly for a quick kiss. Ben sadly placed his head down on her shoulder and began to suck his thumb slightly. Britney gently pushed his thumb away which caused him to let out a small sob. "Come on Benji. It's me. Aunt Britney. Remember, we were in the back yard and played with the puppies?" Britney asked as she pushed back her long blond hair. Ben sobbed quietly into her shirt, continuing to be fussy. "Hello? We're here!" Christina yelled from the doorway. Britney turned toward the entryway to see a giant fuzzy patch of hair walk through the door with Cole in tow. "Hey Chrissy." Britney replied as she carried Ben away from the smaller woman. "Why are you taking him away?" Christina asked. "He's already sad, he doesn't need to be freaked out by the mass of hair you have." Britney snickered. "Shut up! Give me him. I'll show you how much children love me." Christina said, holding out her arms. Britney slowly deposited the child into Christina's arms. Almost instantly, the boy began to come to a peaceful silence. "See!" Christina said. "How did you do that?" Britney asked, astonished. "He's probably too scared to make a noise." Lance snickered. With one swift push from Christina, Lance went falling back in the space between the coffee table and the couch. "So...Cole how are you?" Lance said as he got up from the floor. "I'm doing good. How bout you Lance?" Cole asked taking a seat on the couch. Amy shied away from her doctor and into Lance's awaiting lap. Lance put an arm around the child who was now toying with Lance's watch. "I'm doing good today. We're doing alright. Getting ready for the many award shows we have to go to." Lance sighed. "I'm sorry. I wish I could empathize." Cole apologized. "Oh you will." Britney mumbled as she made her way to Lance. "What was that?" Cole asked. "Oh nothing. Lance, honey, come with me to take these two upstairs." Britney said, taking Ben from Christina. They made their way up the stairs while Cole and Christina sat in the living room. "You need a haircut." Cole snickered as he toyed with her hair. "I do not. I like my hair this way." Christina replied. "Well what if I said I don't." Cole said, raising his eyebrows. "Who cares what you think. You don't own me." Christina snickered. "very true." Cole nodded. "So you got any plans for the week after next?" Christina asked. "Uhm not really. Why?" Cole questioned carefully. "Weelllll. I have to go to the same award shows that Lance was talking about. . . and I want to know if. . . well . . . do you want to be my date?" Christina asked. Cole glanced at Christina with a grin. "Sure." Cole shrugged. "You will? I mean it is going to change your life. No longer will you be the quiet doctor in Orlando, Florida anymore. I mean after today, you will be on covers of magazines, newspapers, and there will be whole web sites dedicated to hating you." Christina informed. "If it's important to you, then I will." Cole nodded. "Oh thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" Christina said hugging the man. "Hey Justin! Can I go show Julie the pictures from Christening?" Danny asked. "Yeah sure, they are upstairs, you know where they are." Justin said pointing up. Julie and Danny left the two of them and began walking up the stairs, leaving Justin and JC alone in the living room with opened boxes of Chinese food cartons "So did I pass the test?" JC asked softly, looking into his carton while picking around for something. "What do you mean?" Justin asked, diverting his complete attention towards JC with a defensive look. "Well you said I don't hang around your friends very often. And today I hung out with them." JC responded, glancing up at Justin for a brief second. "Danny doesn't count, He's your friend too. He's the godfather to our children." Justin responded. "Then who? Who is it that you want me to hang out with?" JC asked with frustration. "my friends!" Justin snapped back. "Justin we share the same friends. Give me one person that I don't hang out with." JC challenged. "Terra." Justin announced. "Went to lunch with her last week." JC responded. "J.R." Justin continued. "Had sushi the other day." JC informed. Teddy." Justin said, with a smile of victory. "Went to the movies with him two nights ago." JC said with a serious face. "Trace!" Justin snapped. JC went silent and continued to eat his food. "Why don't you hang out with Trace?" Justin questioned. "Cause I choose not to." JC said getting up and making his way toward the kitchen. Justin stood up and followed him in. "Joshua, it's important to me that you hang out with Trace. I mean he is my best friend." Justin said, leaning against the doorway while watching JC rummaging through the fridge for something to drink. "I thought I was your best friend?" JC asked, giving Justin a glare. "Josh! You are my best friend. I mean you are my husband for God's sake. But I mean I grew up with this guy. And we've been friends since we were kids. It's like you, Brad, and Chad. All three of you grew up together and they are your best friends. Trace is my best friend." Justin informed. "Just. I love you and you know that. But I don't trust Trace and I definitely don't want to be around someone I don't trust." JC said giving Justin a quick peck on the cheek before exiting the room to head back to the living room. "Why don't you trust him? I mean shouldn't learn to, because he is my friend and he does live in Orlando now. You'll be seeing a lot of him." Justin promised. "Justin, Trace to me, is like. . . Stacy to you!" JC shot out. "No, that is not correct at all! Trace didn't try to come between us. Trace didn't try to break up our marriage. Trace does not flirt or rub up on me, for the sole purpose of making you jealous." Justin corrected. "You know Justin. Why does it feel like Trace is behind this change in you." JC accused. "Maybe he is. I mean he brought me to my senses. He told me that you never acknowledge me, but expect me to acknowledge you." Justin retorted. "Justin! I love you and would do anything for you. And I do hang out with your friends and I make it a point to acknowledge you everyday. What do you think those little phone messages I send you are for. Or how about the little notes I put in your car. Or the way I kiss your picture everyday. Justin I would do anything for you and if you really want me to. I will put aside my problems with Trace and hang out with you guys. Just don't expect me to be his best friend because I definitely don't expect you to be best buddies with Brad and Chad." JC compromised. "So you will hang out with Trace?" Justin asked. "Only if you are around." JC stipulated. "I love you!!" Justin said with a grin as he gave JC a deep tight hug. "I love you too." JC said kissing Justin's cheek. "Ahem!" Both turned toward the sound and were welcomed by a flash. "Thanks, that will make a lovely picture for my mantle." Danny said, winding his camera once again. Justin and JC snickered with one another, sharing a brief kiss, and then separated. Justin sat on the counter of the kitchen, finishing off a bowl of cereal while gazing toward the glass door where Leo and Hunter scratched incessantly. Justin smiled through the glass at his dogs who were trying to claw their way in. Justin took in one last spoonful before hopping off the counter. After a quick rinse in the sink, he made his way to the door and slid it opened so his dogs could enter. "Hey Puppies." Justin Said. Hunter hopped up on his hind legs and begged Justin for something. "You hungry? Why don't you go into the living room and go eat JC's cat. He's probably really tasty." Justin said, walking out of the kitchen toward the living room. He picked up the newspaper from the side table in the foyer and brought it into the living room with evil intentions. Justin walked to the coffee table, facing toward JC, and lifted the newspaper over the table. His intention was to drop it, causing a loud thud that would surely wake up his husband. Instead he stopped and stared down at his husband who lay napping on the couch with a sleeping Oreo curled up on his chest. The sight of the two snoozing with one another just caused Justin to smile and gently put the paper on the table. With a loud shudder the phone rang, causing Justin to rush to the table where he picked up the cordless. "Hello?" Justin asked, he leaned down and gently placed a kiss on JC's forehead, causing the older man to shift a bit. "Hi, is this Justin?" someone asked. Justin stared oddly at the phone. `Yeah it is. And this would be?" Justin questioned as he made his way into the den where he took a seat at the giant wooden desk. "It's Ashley. You know, from O-Town." Ashley said. "Oh! Hey Ashley. How are things going with those jackasses you work with?" Justin asked. "I know they were rude to you, especially Jacob, but I just wanted to you know, apologize and all and was wondering if I could, you know hang out with you or something." Ashley said nervously. Justin gave a soundless scowl, before giving off a suspicious look. "uhm sure. Where do you want to hang out?" Justin asked. "Could I possibly come over?" Ashley asked. "Yeah sure." Justin responded. Justin made his way to the front door as the aftermath of the chime echoed through the house. He opened the door and stared at the young man who was looking out into the front yard. He turned from the front yard to face Justin. "Hi Justin." Ashley said, holding out his hand. "Hey Ashley. Come on in." Justin invited. He was met by two dogs who viewed him suspiciously. Leo was the first to bark aloud. "Leo! Shush up!" Justin warned, pointing toward Leo. Leo bowed his head before walking toward Ashley carefully and sniffing about. "Leo is the protective one of the house. Hunter likes you though." Justin stated. Ashley remained silent as he followed Justin into the living room. Ashley looked down on the couch at the sleeping JC who still held a snoozing cat on his chest. "Have a seat." Justin said as he took a seat in front of JC, resting his back against the front of the couch. Ashley took a seat on the floor in front of Justin on the other side of the coffee table. "So what's up?" Justin questioned. "I don't know. . . I'm feeling all these things right now and I needed someone to talk with." Ashley said with a deep sigh. He nervously watched as JC shifted a bit before dropping his arm so that it came over Justin's shoulder and rested on his chest. "Okay, no problem. I can listen. Josh says I'm good at that." Justin nodded. There was an awkward silence between them. "Soo. . . ?" Justin asked. Ashley gave an apprehensive look toward JC. "Oh don't worry Ashley, he's safe with the secret. Everything you tell me I would tell him anyway." Justin shrugged. "I know, I just. . ." Ashley started. "Ashley, do you want to go somewhere more private?" Justin asked. "can we?" Ashley asked. "Sure, we can go upstairs to the family room." Justin suggested. They stood up and made their way out of the room. As they climbed the stairs they heard the patter of feet behind them. Justin held open the gate for both dogs to enter and locked it afterwards. He lead the way into the family area where he crashed on a couch. "So what's up?" Justin asked watching him crash on the sofa. "Well. . .i'm kinda. . . well. . . I'm bi." Ashley admitted. "Cool." Justin shrugged. "And well I'm dating someone in the band." Ashley admitted. "Really? Wow. Is it Erik? Cause I'm sensing gay vibes from him." Justin claimed. "No." Ashley said with a small snicker. "Okay then who?" Justin asked. "Jacob." Ashley said softly. "Really? My gaydar must be broken, cause I thought he was the straightest of them all." Justin stated. "Nope. I think he's bi. But that's not the issue. . . He is sweet and beautiful and he smells so great after he takes a shower." Ashley said, smiling happily. "He takes showers?" Justin asked with a shocked face. "Hey! That's my boyfriend you are talking about." Ashley responded. "I'm just kidding. So what's the problem? It looks like both of you are happy." Justin claimed. "Well we are it's just. He doesn't seem to acknowledge me around anyone else. He treats me differently when people are around. You know?" Ashley asked. "Actually I don't. Josh is the same with me regardless if people are around or not." Justin said, leaning for more clarification. "I mean, well. We could be cuddling and stuff and the next minute when we are around the guys he would be making fun of everything little thing about me." Ashley claimed. "He is such a jerk. I think he's really insecure about who he is and he is trying to protect himself even if it is at your expense. You deserve better." Justin stated. "but I love him." Ashley said softly. "How can you love him? I mean you just said he makes fun of you. I mean once in a while is alright. But all the time means he is using you." Justin emphasized. "I dunno." Ashley sighed. "Ashley, you are a gorgeous guy and I think you deserve better than whatever Jacob has to offer you." Justin said shyly. "Hey guys. Am I interrupting something?" JC asked from atop the stairs. Justin gave a questioning look towards Ashley. "No not at all. Come on in." Ashley invited. JC walked into the area and took a seat on the same couch that Justin had. JC laid back on the couch resting his head in Justin's lap. He gazed lazily up at his husband who was giving the same loving gaze back down. "So Ashley. Do you have plans tonight? I mean I have some friends in town and we were gong to go out to get some food and all. And I was wondering if you want to join us. It's Josh's treat." Justin suggested with wiggling eyebrows. "Just for that. I'm forgetting my wallet at home." JC said, closing his eyes. "Does he always fall asleep everywhere?" Ashley asked. "Pretty much." Justin nodded. "Did you see MTV cribs? That jackass Ashley thinks he's a bigger Superman fan then I am!" Joey said, looking over his shoulder as he walked into Justin and JC's house. He turned to walk into the living room and saw everyone in the living room staring at him with a snicker. It wasn't until he connected eyes with Ashley that he realized why. "Oh I meant. That guy Jack and his brother Ashley are bigger fans of Superman than I am." Joey struggled to correct. "I know, I know. You are the world's biggest Superman fan. I'm just following in your footsteps." Ashley commented. "Good answer!" Justin chuckled. Joey looked around and saw JC sitting in the recliner with Justin sitting atop his lap. Danny and his friend Julie had taken over one couch while both Leo and Ozzie sat with their heads in their laps. Hunter curled up at Ashley's feet while he sat on the floor. Lance, Joey, and Chris walked into the room and smiled at everyone. "Hello all." Lance said taking a seat on the three-seater. He caught sight of Oreo and rushed over to scoop up the kitten. "So Ashley. What brings you to Josh and Justin's house?" Chris asked. "Just hanging out." Ashley shrugged. "I see." Joey nodded. "What are your guys' plans for the night?" Lance asked. "Nothing. Why?" JC asked. "You want to hit up a club?" Joey questioned. "Eh. Kinda early to go to a club. Do you guys want to go ice skating?" JC asked. "Yeah! Dude I haven't gone skating since I was a kid." Lance exclaimed. "That would be fun!" Danny said happily. "That would be a blast." Ashley said. `I don't think so?" Justin said shaking his head. "Why not?" JC asked. "Cause I don't know. It's just. . ." Justin squirmed. "Justin! Come on! It will be fun!" Lance aid happily. "Come on Justin, don't be a baby. We can go as a big group. I'll call Sarah. Lance can get Brit. Well drag Chrissy and Cole along." Chris suggested. "No." Justin said shaking his head. "Why not?" JC asked, looking Justin in the eyes. "Cause I don't know how to skate." Justin said meekly. "That's it! We're going and gonna teach Just how to skate." Lance said hopping up. "Can we take Ben and Amy?" Chris asked. "Nope. They are spending the weekend with their grandma Lynn. So I think Mom and Dad are probably putting them to sleep by now." JC responded. "Okay well let's head out!" Joey said popping up. The ice rink had a minute amount of visitors who were skating in couples, or small groups of people. Some individuals skated alone, perfecting their spins, jumps or speed. One girl could be seen skating while reading a book. And then there were the few that clutched on tightly to acquaintances for the sake of staying balanced. Lance and Britney stepped onto the ice, both holding hands as they started to skate. Ashley set out alone skating away into the crowd. Joey clutched onto Chris's shirt as he held Sarah's hand. Chrissy set out on the ice to catch up with Ashley. Julie and Danny set out to clear the way for JC who helped Justin along. Justin tightly clutched JC's arm as he glided on the ice. "Josh, don't let go!" Justin said grabbing JC's arm to the point of JC's hand turning white. "Sweetheart, ease up a bit. If you hold on any tighter. We're both going down." JC claimed. Justin eased up a bit and grabbed onto his arm for more support. Justin slowly started to move on the ice. "You faker! You can skate!" JC said looking down at Justin's feet. Just then Justin began to slide every which way. He held JC tightly for support and struggled to gain balance. "It's okay. It's okay. I got you." JC eased. "Let's go to the wall." Justin said, sliding that way. "No! the wall is for kids and those who can't skate at all. You are not one of those men." JC stated, holding onto him. "Josh, I'm scared of falling." Justin claimed, pulling against JC's will toward the wall. "Need a little help?" Ashley asked, sliding by. Justin looked up at his expecting smile and looked back down at his skates. "Nope. I'm fine just here." Justin said, reaching the wall. JC looked at Ashley and pointed toward Justin. Ashley got the hint and took one of Justin's arms. JC grabbed the other one and began to skate in the circle once again. "Nooo! Josh! Ashley. Stop." Justin cried. "Justin the sooner you get comfortable, the sooner we can do that!" JC said as he pointed toward a guy with his arms wrapped around a girl in front of him. The girl leaned against the guy as they both glided along. "Can't we do that now? I mean you can glide us and I can lean back against you!" Justin said happily. "Nope! Not until you learn how to skate." JC rejected. "Okay. I How about I make one circle on my own without the wall. And if I do it then we do that. And if not then I keep trying." Justin suggested. "Alright. Sounds good to me. Me and Ashley will wait here and watch you okay?" JC suggested. Both of them ducked out into a small box, reserved as a penalty box for hockey. They watched as Justin slowly made his way around. "Fuck! Hide me!" Ashley said as he ducked behind JC. while looking over toward the entrance of the rink. "Why? What's up?" JC asked trying to see what Ashley was looking at. "That's the guys. Why are they here?" Ashley said in a hushed whisper. "What guys? You mean that group right there?" JC asked pointing to them. the four guys who were now staring at the man that just pointed at them. Ashley looked out from behind JC and connected eyes with Dan who tapped Jacob on the shoulder. "Shit did they see me?" Ashley asked. "I think they did. Maybe we should go hang out with the group now. Come on." JC said moving onto the ice quickly as did Ashley. They somewhat blended into the crowd as they skated away. "Are you not supposed to be here with us?" JC asked as he glided along? "No. It's just. They aren't too fond of your guys and, well, they will give me hell for being with you guys." Ashley said. "Do you want to head out?" JC asked. "No. I can't make you guys suffer for the sake of me? I'd be bringing you down." Ashley said. "Why not? Friends have each other's backs." JC said. "Thanks for the offer but I know I'll have to face them sooner or later." Ashley sighed. JC and Ashley met up with Justin who was finally getting the hang of it. JC skated up behind Justin and wrapped his arms around Justin's waist, before pushing off at Ashley's pace. "Josh!!" Justin yelled as he got pushed forward quickly. "I love you." JC said to Justin as he nuzzled Justin's neck. "I love you too!" Justin said, easing back against JC. "Hey Justin. Just in case you get some real negative comments, I'm sorry." Ashley apologized. Before Justin had time to comment. Jacob and Erik came up to Ashley. "Hey Ashley. What's up? How's it going guys?' Erik asked, nodded in Justin and JC's direction. "Good and you?" JC asked. "Good. Anyway. I've been sent to retrieve Ashley for something." Jacob said, taking Ashley by the arm and skating away. Erik followed in tow, joining his group once again. "Josh are they going to be alright?" Justin asked. "Possibly." JC whispered back. "Hey guys! Justin, how are you holding up?" Julie questioned. "I doing well. Especially with Josh's help." Justin responds. JC let go of Justin and took his hand so they could skate side by side. As soon as JC let go, Justin slipped on the ice, falling to the floor while still holding onto JC. JC lost his balance and fell to the floor next to Justin. Both cracked up in laughter while the group reconvened around them. JC, Chris and Lance stepped onto the red carpet with a series of flashbulbs going off to announce their arrivals. Chris reached into the limo to allow Sarah to emerge. Lance reached in, and out stepped Heather Chasez. JC reached into the car and out stepped Laura Timberlake. They smiled as they walked down the red carpet, occasionally stopping to wave or pose for pictures. "Nsync! Nsync! Over here." Someone yelled. They paused as a group and took pictures. "Excuse me sirs, could we possibly have an interview with you?" Someone asked. They were whirled before a camera and a host. "Well, here with me we have three-fifths of Nsync with their dates. So the big question is where are Justin and Joey?" the reporter asked. The guys all looked at each other for who was going to answer. "Well Joey had a prior engagement with his family so he stayed home." Lance claimed. "And what about Justin, JC?" she asked. "He is actually at home with the kids. He was feeling a bit under the weather so he stayed at home. So if you are watching Justin. I love you, get well soon Babe." JC said, looking into the camera. "Now who are your dates." She asked, placing the microphones in front of Chris. "My beautiful date is my girlfriend Sarah." Chris said giving her a little squeeze. The interviewer moved the microphone to the Lance. "I am actually dateless tonight. Britney couldn't attend because of a performance she had scheduled. So I handed my extra ticket to JC." Lance said with a slight rocking of his feet. "And you JC." she asked. "I brought with me, who acts as Lance's date, my sister, Heather. And my date is the elegant Laura Timberlake, my sister-in-law." JC said, looking down at Laura who took his arm with a smile toward the camera. "Wow Laura, you are very stylishly dressed for a teenager. Who are you wearing?" she asked. "Actually I don't know. I raided Britney Spears' closet and found one that looked good on me." Laura smiled. "Now you are nominated for a best group artist. And it just so happens you are against the Backstreet Boys. How do you feel about that?" she asked. "You know I think they are an extraordinary group that deserve all that they receive. I think the artists chosen this year, were just the perfect pick. And There should have been other artists to have taken our place." Chris stated. "Definitely. I think BBMak or some other people should have been nominated." Lance agreed. "Well I think the show is about to start. I'll let you guys get going." She claimed. ". . . And the winner is. . . NSYNC!!!" JC, Chris, and Lance gave a shocked expressions before standing and hugging their dates and each other. They walked up onto the stage and accepted the golden award. "Wow!" Lance said into the microphone. "Uhmm. Well, Where do we begin?" JC asked. "Well I guess I'll start. We want to thank everyone that made NSYNC what we are today. Thanks to all the managers, publicists, stylist, tour crews. Everyone who made the many CDs and tours what they are. Thank you." Chris stated. "Uhm Thanks to our families and friends who make every day worth living. Thanks to our mothers and fathers and brothers and sisters. Thanks for understanding day in and day out. Special thanks to Justin for being the best husband there ever was, get well soon baby. To Ben and Amy, I love you and Papa and your uncles will be home soon." JC said, leaning into the microphone. He gave a inconspicuous tug of the ear before stepping aside for Lance to step up. "And finally, the most important of all. The Fans! We would be nothing and would have probably not have been anything if it wasn't for the fans. So for this award, we thank you!" Lance claimed sincerely. JC sat on the couch, glancing at the television that housed a picture of himself as his four best friends. One just happen to be the person sitting next to him. Justin was sitting sideways on the couch, his back resting against the arm of the sofa with his legs brought up over JC's legs. The slight triangle of Justin's legs formed over JC's legs were at perfect height at JC's chest. JC leaned down a bit and kissed Justin's clothed knee. He glanced at his husband who cradled a bowl of cereal close to his mouth while casually moving spoonfuls at a time to his mouth; never once letting his eyes be moved from the television. "You would look completely hot in that shot if you didn't have that strip of hair down your chin." Justin commented slyly. JC rolled his eyes and tossed a glance toward Justin. Justin looked back at him just as he put the spoon into his mouth. "Do you want me to shave it off?" JC asked. "Yes." Justin replied quickly. "Than I will." JC responded. "Wait! Josh don't." Justin said. "What?" JC asked, giving his husband his attention. "Do you want to shave it off?" Justin asked. "I do if you want me to." JC replied. "That's so sweet of you. But do you want that racing stripe on your face or don't you?" Justin asked with a grin. "I like it." JC shrugged. "Than don't. Don't let my complete distaste and disapproval for that thing on your face, sway your choice any way at all." Justin responded. JC let out a small laugh. "It'll be gone tomorrow." JC responded softly, turning towards the television. "Josh!" Justin sighed as he put down his bowl on the coffee table. "Josh look at me!" Justin said. Justin placed both of his hands on JC's cheeks and turned his head so that JC faced Justin. "Josh! I don't want you to shave it off if you like it. I would rather you keep it and be happy than shave it off for me and be unhappy. So keep it. And if you don't keep it, than you'll have to sleep on the futon!" Justin said forcefully. JC smiled at Justin's care ad concern. He leaned forward and gently placed a kiss on Justin's lips. "I love you." JC whispered, parting mere millimeters away from Justin's lips. "I love you more." Justin responded quietly. "Biba!" Came a chipper voice as a small child came trotting into the room. "Biba!" Came her counterpart, with a slightly faster trot. They walked into the living room before Ben fell back onto his tush, creating an obstacle for Amy. Amy tripped over Ben and fell onto her stomach. She pushed herself up and sat on her butt. They both looked around the room and caught sight of their fathers. Justin looked into the foyer and found Hana making sure they were okay before heading to the kitchen. "Amy! Ben! Com'ere." JC said with a coaxing smile. Both children stumbled toward their father and stood against the couch. JC leaned down and brought the kids onto the couch. They climbed over legs to finally come to a rest in JC's lap. Amy stood up and wrapped both arms around JC's neck before resting her head on his shoulder. "Ohh poor baby. What's wrong Amers?" JC asked. Ben stood up and used Justin's leg for balance. He tossed a glance toward Justin and grinned at his achievement. Justin watched his son smile and saw a bit of saliva slip slowly out of Ben's mouth. Justin grabbed a tissue from the table and brought it to Ben's mouth which he wiped smoothly. Ben moved his head away from his father and tried to walk the other way. "Sweet Pea, do you want to go nite nite?" JC asked the baby girl. "Hmm?" Amy mumbled. "Nite Nite?" JC asked again. Amy lifted her head and sat in her father's lap. "Ehhh!" Ben whined as he pointed to the empty bowl that Justin had put down on the coffee table. "You want my bowl?" Justin questioned. Ben looked at his father and laughed in embarrassment. "You are so crazy!" Justin snickered as scooped up Ben. Ben reached out and took a hold on Justin's nose. "What is with you and your fascination with noses?" Justin asked as he leaned forward and pressed a big kiss on Ben's cheek. "So what do the kids have planned for today?" JC asked, giving a glance to Justin. "I think their schedule's are free. Do you want to bring them along to the interview?" Justin asked. "Why not? It is only a magazine interview." JC shrugged. Justin and JC stepped out of the car with Two bundled up children in their arms. Amy slept quietly on Justin's shoulder while Ben was wide awake and looking about at everything that was new to him. Justin and JC were dressed similarly, obviously ready for the photo shoot that is to take place after the interview. They walked into the building, past the receptionist, straight toward the elevators. Justin leaned gently against JC in the elevator which stopped periodically to let on a few people. Once they reached their floor, they stepped off to find a giant sign welcoming them. "Advocate Magazine." "Baby, do you know where we go?" Justin asked, careful not to disrupt his sleeping daughter. "Hey! Justin! JC! So glad you guys could make it. why don't you two come on in to the interview room." A man said as he greeted them. the late twenty year old man stood out with his redish-orange hair and matching goatee. His lean frame filled his tight long sleeved shirt, making him looking more muscular. His black leather pants went well with the dark blue shirt. "Hey Michael, nice to finally meet you." JC said extending his hand. "Same here. Why don't you two follow me." Michael suggested as he walked through the hallways to a large cozy room with to couches near each other while other chairs lined the walls. "Sorry for the chairs, we recently had a conference in this room. Would you guys like anything to eat or drink?" Michael asked. "Uhm no thanks. Josh you want?" Justin asked. "Oh no thanks." JC said. Both guys put down the kids on the couch and started to shuck the layers off of them. before taking off their own coats. They laid all their coats on the side of the couch before taking a seat. "So the way this interview will work is I'll take a couple interview, and then individual interviews. So which one would you like to start with?" Michael asked. JC glanced at Justin who was staring back at him. "Why don't we get the individuals done first, and then we'll go from there." JC shrugged. "Okay then which one of you would like to go first?" Michael asked, pulling out a bunch of supplies from his bag. "Justin. Why don't you go first. I'll take Ben and play with him over here." JC said, before leaning in and placing a tender kiss against Justin's cheek. "Okay. I'll keep Ames." Justin replied. putting the girl down on the couch and covering her with a small blanket from their bag. JC lifted his son and carried him over to the other end of the room where he sat on the floor while his son ran around. "Okay let me turn the recorder on and we'll get started." Michael said placing a tape recorder on the table. Michael: Now tell me about how you and JC first met Justin: Well I guess we both met on the Mickey Mouse Club. He had already been established in the previous year, and I came along with the second round of auditions. So I walked onto the set, not knowing anyone, and JC was the first person to come up to me and introduce himself. And from that moment our friendship grew. Michael: Was it love at first sight? Justin: I wouldn't call it that. I mean I don't think any kid calls himself gay at the age of twelve. But I had this little problem. I would always stare at him whenever he was around. I would be totally focused on the set and once he walked on stage or walked by I would just lose all focus. And then Britney would be on the set and give me a pinch to bring me back to my senses. Michael: So Britney knew you liked JC? Justin: Oh god no! I didn't even know. She was my girlfriend at the time. Michael: So are you still close with Britney, now that you have come out? Justin: Oh god! I can't go through a day without talking to her. She is like my twin. I mean me coming out has just made our relationship stronger. Every time JC pisses me off, I go to Britney's house and complain. Or I get on the phone and whine to her. Michael: Now you are pretty young. You are about to turn twenty-one and you are a married man with children. How does that feel? Do you think you rushed into things at all? Justin: I thought I would think that, but I don't. JC makes my life so much fun everyday. I mean as sappy as it sounds, I fall deeper in love every day. And the fact that we are raising kids together is just awesome. Michael: Now, does being married change anything with the rest of Nsync? Justin: Not at all. The guys treat us the same. Like any other group of people, we often times get on each other's nerves. And the guys will definitely feel comfortable coming up to me to complain or vent about JC, and they will feel totally comfortable cooling down with JC. Michael: How are the guys with the kids? Justin: The guys love the kids as if they are actually their uncles. I mean the other day I walked into the room to see Chris cradling Ben while both of them snoozed on the couch. The kids love them to. Lance seems to have the golden touch when it comes to soothing the babies down. And Chris and Joey are the best uncles the kids could have. Michael: Now, what in your opinion is the best part of JC? Justin: Weeeeeelll. I'm not sure. I like the whole package! Buuuuuut, if I have to decide I guess. . .i dunno. He has a lot of parts I like about him. Michael: Then name a few of those parts that you like. Justin: Well physically, he has an awesome body. I mean I will stare for hours at his body during dance rehearsals. And just him holding me at night feels so good. Personality wise, I think he is the sweetest man alive. He is so caring of everyone. Even his enemies. And he is the sweetest family guy I've ever met. I mean family is more important to him than anything in the world, for that I really admire him. Michael: he sounds hot. Justin: Oh he is! Michael: Now how does JC let you know that he loves you? Justin: Well besides the fact that he makes it a priority to tell me everyday, he does small things. We'd be walking down the street and he'd take my pinky with his. Or we'd be at a function and he'd give our little signal. Michael: Which would be? Justin: He pulls on his ear, or scratches his ear. Michael: that's sweet. Now, you two are always in the spot light and have gained some criticism about you two being together. How do you deal with it and how does the band deal with it? Justin: Well we do get a lot of hate mail and insults and jokes, but JC reminds me everyday that he loves me and that we're better then them. He reminds me to turn the other cheek and move on. The guys are soo supportive that they will now speak up if a fan says the term "that's gay." I seriously would not know how well we'd be off it if it wasn't for the guys. Michael: Have you or do you plan to reach out to the gay community? Justin: I would like to. We haven't yet but would like to. We are very limited to what we can do. Even public appearances for events have to be cleared through a swarm of people. And something as controversial as a gay event would be rejected with the second person if not the first. Though by doing this interview we wish to reach out to the gay community a bit. Michael: Doesn't it get frustrating having people decide your every move for you? Justin: All the time! You can't imagine how many times I would be so frustrated with that. Sometimes it is reasonable but other times it's a bit extreme. You kinda of get used to all of it. Michael: Now, I've just finished seeing the `Gone' video. You were all over that girl.W hat did JC think about it? Justin: Well first let me tell you why I was all over the girl. You see for the `Dirty Pop' video he was being groped by all these women. And he got in trouble for that. And so in retaliation I got to be the main character for the `Gone' video, but you can say that he was pissed. He got so jealous. Michael: What did he do? Justin: Before every take and after every take he would give me this whopping kiss to stake his claim on me. The girl who was my girlfriend in the video would be afraid to touch me because JC would give her death glares. But in the end he was okay with it. He knew it was just acting and he was okay with it. Michael: Is there anything JC does that irks you? Justin: Oh yeah! He has this ability to sleep wherever he wants. We could be driving just down the street and by the time we pull out of the driveway he is sleeping like a baby. Michael: Wow, why is he always so tired? Justin: Oh he's not tired at all. He can just fall asleep for the hell of it. Michael: Is there anything else he does? Justin: Well we are pretty well off financially and you would expect us to splurge a little. I mean I bought a new car and everything. Well JC has this white jeep that he has had forever and he refuses to buy a new one. Michael clicked off the tape recorder and wrote one last thing down. He looked up at JC who was laying flat on his back while Ben gently hopped on his chest and toyed with JC's Leo pendant. "Wow you have the sexiest man as your husband." Michael claimed with a sigh. "I know." Justin said, staring at his husband and his son. "You two are so cute together." Michael said giving a glance towards Justin. "Well thank you. I appreciate that." Justin responded. "Oh no problem. Actually my boyfriend has been a fan of the group since you first started and was thrilled to hear that you guys came out. He's kinda jealous that I got to interview and he wasn't able to come." Michael claimed. "Aw you should have let him come. He could've kept JC busy during the interview." Justin claimed. "No, it's against policy to bring private life into business." Michael replied. "We have the same policy but I guess it went out the window with me and JC hooking up." Justin snickered. "Well it looks like your daughter is awake. Do you guys want to take the photo shoot now and do the rest of the interview afterwards?" Michael asked. "Sure." Justin nodded. Justin walked into the rehearsal studio, twisting the cap on his Sprite back on. He glanced at Lance, Joey, and JC who were practicing the routine that Wade had just taught them. He made his way to the couch off to the side where Chris was looking through a bunch of clothing designs for his company. With a plop, Justin fell into the couch and lazily glanced at the papers. Justin rested his head on Chris shoulder and brought his legs onto the couch. Chris flipped the page of his packet and stared at the sketched man on the paper wearing stylish clothes. "No." Justin said shaking his head. "Why not? I like it." Chris said, turning his head a bit and glancing at the paper again. "Trust me Chris. I'm gay and have fashion sense, and no man in their right mind would by a sleeveless shirt with fur on collar." Justin claimed. "Okay, good point." Chris nodded. "Hey, so what's the deal with Cole and Christina?" Justin asked. "I think they are dating but haven't officially stated it, you know?" Chris questioned. "They make a cute couple. Besides the fact that she has hair like a lion." Justin snickered, closing his eyes while keeping his head on Chris's shoulder. "And the height difference is hilarious. I mean She's short and he's a little over average." Chris responded. Justin nodded and averted his gaze to JC. He watched as JC's body glistened with the sweat worked up from intense dancing. JC's hair has grown out to wavy hair that curled slightly at the ends. The tight sleeveless shirt hugged onto his body, with wet patches in various places proving his hours of strenuous routine. His wind breaker pants swished with every movement of his legs, yet were tight enough to see the outline of JC's ass. "Isn't my husband dreamy?" Justin asked, staring at the intense, focused JC. "The sexiest." Chris responded sarcastically, keeping his eyes focused on the papers in front of him. "So how is Sarah?" Justin asked. "She is good. She is going on tour with Britney as he publicist." Chris responded. "That sounds cool." Justin replied. "Yeah I guess. But it sucks cause we're going on tour at the same time. So we're both moving around the US." Chris responded. The music stopped and JC, Joey, and Lance all let out a pant of relief. JC made his way to the arm of the couch where Justin was sitting. He took a seat and leaned over his husband to see what Chris was holding. "Don't get that. It's too tribal." JC commented, as he tried to catch his breathe. "Why don't I just hire my two gay best friends to be my buyers?" Chris said, still not lifting his eyes from the stack of papers in his lap. Justin snickered and turned his head toward JC's which was mere inched away. He leaned up and pressed a kiss at the corner of JC's mouth. "Thirsty?" Justin asked. "God yes!" JC responded, sitting back up. "Wants some Sprite?" Justin questioned. "Thank you Sweetheart." JC replied, taking the drink. He took a generous gulp and handed the bottle back. "So what are we going to do on the road?" Justin asked. "Uhm, dance and sing?" JC asked, for a far too simple question. "I meant with the kids." Justin said rolling his eyes. "Oh. Take them with us?" JC asked "I dunno. I mean they hardly have a chance to get used to a place before they go off moving again. Do you think we should keep them at home?" Justin asked. "Who would take care of them?" JC inquired. "Hana?" Justin questioned. "Or you Mom." JC asked. "Or we could send to hang out with your parents?" Justin replied. "Okay I guess we have a little time to decide." JC replied. "Yeah I guess." Justin said as he melted into JC's arms. "I love you." JC said before pressing a kiss on Justin's forehead. "Ditto." Justin replied. "Hey guys, call it a day." Wade said, coming into the room once again. There was a mutual cheer between everyone in the room. "Do you guys want to come back to our place. We'll order in, watch a flick. . ." Justin started. ". . . Practice your routines." Wade added. "That too. Come on, the six of us." Justin said excitedly. "Yeah sure. Mind if I bring Amanda?" Joey asked. "No not at all. The more babies the better." JC snickered. "Okay." Lance said nodding in agreement. Justin returned to the living room with three cans of soda and two cans of beer. Justin gave Lance and Wade a soda before taking one for himself. He handed Chris and Joey a beer. "Baby? What do you want?" Justin asked. "I'll have a glass of wine." JC said putting down his pizza and beginning to stand up. "No I'll get it." Justin said walking toward the kitchen. "No I will." JC said chasing after him. Justin ran into the kitchen and stopped at the counter giving JC a small grin. JC ran into the kitchen after Justin and rushed to him. He wrapped both arms around Justin and scooped him into a passionate kiss. "Mmmmm, you taste so good. Like. . ." Justin fumbled for a word. "Pepperoni?" JC asked. Justin gave a small laugh before kissing JC's once again. "I love you." Justin whispered. "I love you too." JC responded. He took Justin's hand and led him to the cabinet where he pulled out a bottle of red wine, while Justin reached into the shelf and pulled a wine glass out. "Do you think Pizza and wine mix?" Justin asked. "Sure. When you go to the fancy Italian restaurants and they we order a fancy pizza, we also get a fancy red wine. So what goes good with pizza then wine?" JC asked. "Just don't get wasted tonight." Justin said , poking JC in the side. "Why? Big plans?" JC questioned. "You know it." Justin replied with a mischievous grin. "Mmm. Sounds good." JC said following Justin out of the kitchen. Just as they were passing by the front door, the doorbell chimed. "I'll get it." Justin said. "No I will." JC responded. "Oh for God's sake, answer it together, you know you're going to anyway." Joey sighed. Both snickered and walked to the door. JC wrapped both arms around Justin's waist and nuzzled his neck while a chuckling Justin opened the door. Justin soothed his laughter down and looked at the man on his doorstep with a warm smile. "Hello, can I help you?" Justin asked, staring at the young man. He looked about twenty-one and stood tall. He was muscular, yet modest. He obviously played football or lacrosse as a hobby if not on a team. He stood in a black leather jacket, black shirt, and a blue jeans. "Uhm I'm looking for Justin Timberlake and JC Chasez." The man asked. "That's us? How'd you know we lived here?" JC asked. "Well I got your address from a Mr. Randall Timberlake. I think you've got something that in a way belongs to me." The man asked. "I'm sorry, what's your name?" Justin asked. "I'm Austin." He introduced himself. "I'm sorry. Do we know you?" JC asked. "Uhm well. . . you have my children." Austin said. To Be Continued. . . **** Ooooo! I left you on a cliffhanger! Hehe. Sorry I had to! But you have to admit that was good huh? Hehe anyways. I hope you all are doing fine in the new year and I hope all is well. I'm a bit stressed out but doing good. I'm sorry I STILL haven't replied to all the e-mails I've received. I'm behind since September. But I plan on replying to all of them, I swear! Anyway, I guess I'll keep it short. Oh! If you haven't started reading JC's Hitchhiker than I highly suggest it. It's is one great story. Oh and Pop magic is really good. It's just starting but it's a fantasy setting and is bound to have great chapters to come. Okay that's all for now, thanks for reading. Until next time, CYA!