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Can I Have You For Keeps?

*Click the links below to read the chapters*

*Prologue 1*| *Prologue 2*| *1: Last Night*| *2: A Brand New Day*|

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Co-written with : Mersey
Started On : 23 September 2002
Completed :
Odd Chapters Written By Mersey
Even Chapters Written By Backstreet's Gal
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a/n: Events in this story does not follow the facts of actual events of BSB. Most are made up. So please don't start suing...*

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Prologue 1: Nick

AJ told me to scrap the journal and invest some of my money on you instead. Said that the laptop are much more reliable than books. Said that me being Nick, I would end up leaving behind the deepest secrets of my life in a hotel somewhere only to find it end up on ebay for some lucky fans to start bidding on it. You have no idea how difficult it was to say goodbye to that brown leather journal. It's tucked safely in one of the drawers back home.

You my friend, you're another story altogether. I'm not computer savvy, not at all, and so far I had managed to make a fool out of myself and lost some of my entries somewhere in here. And I am still trying to retrieve this certain file where Brian and I had recorded a sound file for one of the songs we worked on two days ago. I am still working up on a gentle way to break the news to the man.

But that was not the reason why I'm typing this down this beautiful Saturday morning. It had been almost two months since we took that flight out to this resort. It was like paradise here. I wish we could stay here forever. And it was because of these reasons that I had been sort of neglecting you. But that's the whole point of this entry. I'm trying my best to make it up.

Our 'plan' actually worked. See, after the accident and I was recuperating, I was really, really depressed. I'm sure you already knew that cause I think I had been whining about it in all my previous entries. So one day, Kevin and I, we were talking and I wasn't sure how we touched to that subject but he suggested that I should set up my own charity foundation that I'm really passionate about and take it as a project that I could dwell myself into. I thought it was an excellent idea.

It wasn't difficult at all. I knew just what I wanted. Since Kevin already had the Just Within Reach Foundation up and running and since it's main aim was about better care for the environment, I decided I wanted to protect the wild life of the sea creatures. Kevin agreed it was a good idea and offered to open up a foundation for me as a wing from his foundation. So, while I was busy with physiotheraphy, he set up the entire proposal and it was just perfect. However, came the difficult task of recruiting.

It was to be held at JWR's headquarters and which by the way wasn't what the headboard said on the building. To avoid fans, the JWR logo could only be seen once you stepped into the building. So Kevin said that it would be safe to be there and meet the candidates while announcing to the media that we were taking a long vacation to an undisclosed location. Clever huh? That's Kevin for you.

So the other guys joined in just because we were supposed to be 'vacationing' together. Kevin told me that they wouldn't know we would be there since we would only be seeing their profiles as the first round of interview. But I got restless as I normally would and excused myself to the men's room.

And of course, I just have to get lost. Which was a good thing considering that was how I finally met my best friend, Nicole Anne Carrie.

Yes, after four years of snail mails and near misses, fate decided to meet us up at the most unexpected situation. She was filling up the form for the post of Publicist, which I personally believed she would have aced.

But she ended up taking the flight out with us to this resort. Yes, we did plan to take a vacation, only that to everyone else we were already out of the country. Therefore, we were ensured smooth sailing at the airport.

We decided on Bahamas. I mean come on, it couldn't get any better than this. Management even booked the entire resort for us. They basically had five different huts that looked very much like any other huts from the outside but the inside…man, this is the dream.

So the guys retreated to their own huts with their wives and girlfriends in tow and I had Nicole. Oh man, she's lovely. Every time I wake up in the morning and see her next to me, I couldn't believe that it was for real.

Like when I wake up today.

I opened up my eyes and there she was fast asleep next to me. But don't get me wrong, we're just friends. For now at least. I hope. I'll explain it to you when I have the time. Just be clear that Nicole and I aren't an item, yet. Hopefully. Argh! I like her. And this must be weird, but I could fall in love with a girl like Nicole. Maybe I already am falling, but come on! We just met, and even though I've known her for 4 years, this is just too fast. So anyway, back to story at hand. She's still asleep on the bed right now. From the sofa where I am right now, I could see her very clearly. In fact, she just turned and now she's facing me. Only that she's still fast asleep. Half of her face hidden behind that thick hair.

She isn't the most exotic looking girl I've ever seen, just enough that she is beautiful in her own ways. Her hair is much longer than the picture she had given me. It now reached her waist and her curls are now big waves mostly at the bottom. Her hair is really auburn, like it's burning. Her eyes are green, very piercing green, you can see the hazel brown right in the middle and even outlining her pupils. It was that dreamy. And her skin was smooth and milky; only that these days, it's tanned. It made her looked sporty and more out-going, which was just the way I like it.

She told me she would be staying at Natalie's if she get the job as Publicist. What she didn't know, she already got that job hands down. She was as perfect for the job as every finalist for that post but Nicole is the only one whom I trust. I will tell her tonight, after the BBQ we would be having.

See, the thing is, if Nicole really decided to stay with Nat, that means she would be living right here in Florida! Here. I am here. We could see each other like everyday! And she would be working at NCOC (that's Nick Carter Ocean Campaign, for you…I feel important…) which means, we could be working together! I am so excited. Life couldn't be any better than this.

Actually, if Nicole wakes up right now, it would be perfect. I missed her already. Go to Top

Prologue 1 : Nicole

If I could wish for anything in this world, it would be for this moment to never end. It was such a blessing to watch him frowned and pout at the same time while facing the laptop, probably still trying to find that sound file he had misplaced. He must have thought that I was still asleep when I had been observing him for the last ten minutes from where I was now. Thank God my long bangs covered my eyes, so he couldn't have noticed I was already awoke by the soft clattering of his keyboard.

Everything was like a dream. A sweet endless dream for someone like me. It seemed like only yesterday I met my best friend, Nick Carter, for the first time after years of corresponding to him through snail mails sharing all my thoughts, my feelings, my sweet and sour experiences. In fact he was the only person whom I trusted with my life enough to share my dreams.

When I saw his face that day, I knew my life was going to change. I don't know how it was going to, but it could never be the same again. Being with him for almost the past two months had taught me something in appreciating friendship even more. Even though we stayed in the same hut, sharing the same room, the same bed and the same washroom, he NEVER took advantage of me. That was something I respect most about him, and that he respects me not only because I'm a girl but as a friend.

Perhaps my life had already changed since the day I entered that building to enrol myself as the Publicist for the ocean campaign, or maybe too, it had changed since the day I received that brochures from Natalie before deciding on whether I should stay or move on with my life somewhere else apart from Australia. Seemed like for once, I've made a wise decision to start a brand new life with Natalie here in Florida.

Of course, I never thought I would be seeing him there cause for all I know, he's off for vacation where the place was not known to me. So when my eyes met his for the first time, I could feel the electrifying sensation piercing through every part of my body and the warmth of his hug was totally incredible, needless to say the moment when he pressed his lips on my forehead.

It was indescribable.

I knew girls are going to hate me now for being such a 'bitch'. I mean, I was there lying next to him, watching him move his body and how I would pretend to be asleep and then felt him gently pulling up the blanket over my body and whispering 'Goodnight Nicole' to me; all the time I was wishing that I could reply back 'Goodnight Nick'. He simply had no idea how my heart was pounding hard when he did that. He was such a sweetheart and no doubt Annie was so fond of him.

Those beautiful blues that were unfortunately often hidden by his shy, downward gazing eyes resembled so much of the deep blue ocean out there; and just like it, they held untold secrets and unfound beauty of what made this young man.

It was this same ocean that we dived into together on the third day we were here. At last our dream of doing some scuba-diving has been accomplished. It was funny how it happened that morning. We were both admiring the sea view from our balcony after having a light breakfast in the room when something caught our attention.

Without saying a word, we turned to each other and as suddenly, were were mind readers. We smiled impishly and nodded our heads before we ran out to the nearest scuba-diving booth to borrow the equipment required for a safe scuba-dive.

We managed to convince both Kevin and Kristin to dive along while AJ and Sarah preferred the more sporty hang-gliding; Howie and Leigh B decided that a stroll along the beach would be romantic enough for them. Brian and Leigh offered to take care of the things on land while waiting for us.

It was surreal to witness the beauty of the wild life under the sea, particularly with someone who shared the same passion as you. I've seen it with Danny but with Nick, the feeling was exhilarating.

Actually when I first stepped into this resort, I felt so nervous. I was so afraid that I might not be able to fit into the crowd. I mean, the others like Kristin, Leigh, Sarah and Leigh B already knew each other way before I came into the picture and I doubt they will be able to accept me that easily. But I was wrong. They were kind enough to make me feel a part of the big family. Leigh was the first one to come to me and stretched out her hands to welcome me aboard. It was through that her I got to know more about my best friend. Like, he hated every time Brian bite his nails cause it only made him do the same and he hated crooked nails.

Nick had confided so much in Brian especially about us. Leigh and Kristin told me the other day when the guys were all out to play pool in the club while we spent the time watching movies Sarah and Leigh B rented that afternoon. It was quite touching to know how much a simple call to him would change his life. I'm glad I'm a part of that cure to bring him back to his feet apart from all the encouragement given by the others.

Its from Leigh too, I learnt more about Mandy or rather Amanda Willa Ford, his old girlfriend. I knew Nick would never want to touch on this topic again and its fine with me. I don't see the need for me to pursue on the matter if that would bring back the dead scar bleeding again. That will only hurt both of us.

But I can never forget what happened last night…

We were having dinner at this posh restaurant in the resort. It was so huge and it was so splendidly arranged with classical touch that made the whole layout looked so posh and classic at the same time bringing out the romantic ambience. It was facing the sea and indeed the whole scenery was perfect for a postcard.

That was not the first time he caught me by surprise. I was stunned when I found out that we have the whole swimming pool to ourselves and a Jacuzzi in a small hut made of glass and sheltered with blinders for privacy purposes. I mean, hello! Jacuzzi? That was way too cool! I'm pretty sure if Nat works hard, she too will get to enjoy such privileges. Oh! Not to forget all those wonderful times I have with the other lovely ladies going for a shopping spree. I'm going to miss them for the great time together especially Leigh B. I didn't know she can be such a joker among us.

But I really have to thank Nick for all these luxuries, indeed he had made me someone special in here with all these facilities meant for each and everyone of us. That's awesome!

Just as awesome as last night's stroll along the beach with him walking side by side. The sounds of the waves tickling at our feet kept us accompanied as we walked and talked and laughed under the bright moon. Basically I let him do all the talking while I was trying my best to be a good listener to all his words and whines. Whines? That's another side of Nick Carter I've been seeing lately. Yeap his whining and I guessed I am already accustomed to it now.

Sometimes I really wonder if I were to stay on in Australia, would I ever be here in the first place? To enjoy the night scenery with my best friend sitting next to me as we counted stars from the sky above.

Serendipity.

I read that in one of his letters in the past and in fact I still remembered what he said in that letter. Things happened for a reason and I'm glad that the reason for what was happening around here had brought me to him. At least I know one of my wishes had been granted and that to meet up with him apart from having my fingers crossed for the election on the post of the Publicist in the ocean campaign. Nah! I'm not going to think about that for now… not going to let it spoil my day with worries and stuff.

So Nicole, erase, erase, erase!

And it was because of serendipity too, that I'm lying here admiring his boyish face at work. His messy bangs often got in his view as he stroke them to the back before he put his full concentration on the screen. He looked calmer now and how I wish I could touch that calmness portrait in his face as he bit his lower lips but guess the time was not right yet. Not now. We are best friends and we'll stick to that, at least for the mean time and there's no way am I going to jeopardise this friendship for anything else in the world.

Gosh! I think its time for me to greet him with my morning hugs and of course I can't wait to plunge into the clear swimming pool with him and this time I am not going to let him win! Go to Top

Prologue 2 : Nicole

If I could wish for anything in this world, it would be for this moment to never end. It was such a blessing to watch him frowned and pout at the same time while facing the laptop, probably still trying to find that sound file he had misplaced. He must have thought that I was still asleep when I had been observing him for the last ten minutes from where I was now. Thank God my long bangs covered my eyes, so he couldn't have noticed I was already awoke by the soft clattering of his keyboard.

Everything was like a dream. A sweet endless dream for someone like me. It seemed like only yesterday I met my best friend, Nick Carter, for the first time after years of corresponding to him through snail mails sharing all my thoughts, my feelings, my sweet and sour experiences. In fact he was the only person whom I trusted with my life enough to share my dreams.

When I saw his face that day, I knew my life was going to change. I don't know how it was going to, but it could never be the same again. Being with him for almost the past two months had taught me something in appreciating friendship even more. Even though we stayed in the same hut, sharing the same room, the same bed and the same washroom, he NEVER took advantage of me. That was something I respect most about him, and that he respects me not only because I'm a girl but as a friend.

Perhaps my life had already changed since the day I entered that building to enrol myself as the Publicist for the ocean campaign, or maybe too, it had changed since the day I received that brochures from Natalie before deciding on whether I should stay or move on with my life somewhere else apart from Australia. Seemed like for once, I've made a wise decision to start a brand new life with Natalie here in Florida.

Of course, I never thought I would be seeing him there cause for all I know, he's off for vacation where the place was not known to me. So when my eyes met his for the first time, I could feel the electrifying sensation piercing through every part of my body and the warmth of his hug was totally incredible, needless to say the moment when he pressed his lips on my forehead.

It was indescribable.

I knew girls are going to hate me now for being such a 'bitch'. I mean, I was there lying next to him, watching him move his body and how I would pretend to be asleep and then felt him gently pulling up the blanket over my body and whispering 'Goodnight Nicole' to me; all the time I was wishing that I could reply back 'Goodnight Nick'. He simply had no idea how my heart was pounding hard when he did that. He was such a sweetheart and no doubt Annie was so fond of him.

Those beautiful blues that were unfortunately often hidden by his shy, downward gazing eyes resembled so much of the deep blue ocean out there; and just like it, they held untold secrets and unfound beauty of what made this young man.

It was this same ocean that we dived into together on the third day we were here. At last our dream of doing some scuba-diving has been accomplished. It was funny how it happened that morning. We were both admiring the sea view from our balcony after having a light breakfast in the room when something caught our attention.

Without saying a word, we turned to each other and as suddenly, were were mind readers. We smiled impishly and nodded our heads before we ran out to the nearest scuba-diving booth to borrow the equipment required for a safe scuba-dive.

We managed to convince both Kevin and Kristin to dive along while AJ and Sarah preferred the more sporty hang-gliding; Howie and Leigh B decided that a stroll along the beach would be romantic enough for them. Brian and Leigh offered to take care of the things on land while waiting for us.

It was surreal to witness the beauty of the wild life under the sea, particularly with someone who shared the same passion as you. I've seen it with Danny but with Nick, the feeling was exhilarating.

Actually when I first stepped into this resort, I felt so nervous. I was so afraid that I might not be able to fit into the crowd. I mean, the others like Kristin, Leigh, Sarah and Leigh B already knew each other way before I came into the picture and I doubt they will be able to accept me that easily. But I was wrong. They were kind enough to make me feel a part of the big family. Leigh was the first one to come to me and stretched out her hands to welcome me aboard. It was through that her I got to know more about my best friend. Like, he hated every time Brian bite his nails cause it only made him do the same and he hated crooked nails.

Nick had confided so much in Brian especially about us. Leigh and Kristin told me the other day when the guys were all out to play pool in the club while we spent the time watching movies Sarah and Leigh B rented that afternoon. It was quite touching to know how much a simple call to him would change his life. I'm glad I'm a part of that cure to bring him back to his feet apart from all the encouragement given by the others.

Its from Leigh too, I learnt more about Mandy or rather Amanda Willa Ford, his old girlfriend. I knew Nick would never want to touch on this topic again and its fine with me. I don't see the need for me to pursue on the matter if that would bring back the dead scar bleeding again. That will only hurt both of us.

But I can never forget what happened last night…

We were having dinner at this posh restaurant in the resort. It was so huge and it was so splendidly arranged with classical touch that made the whole layout looked so posh and classic at the same time bringing out the romantic ambience. It was facing the sea and indeed the whole scenery was perfect for a postcard.

That was not the first time he caught me by surprise. I was stunned when I found out that we have the whole swimming pool to ourselves and a Jacuzzi in a small hut made of glass and sheltered with blinders for privacy purposes. I mean, hello! Jacuzzi? That was way too cool! I'm pretty sure if Nat works hard, she too will get to enjoy such privileges. Oh! Not to forget all those wonderful times I have with the other lovely ladies going for a shopping spree. I'm going to miss them for the great time together especially Leigh B. I didn't know she can be such a joker among us.

But I really have to thank Nick for all these luxuries, indeed he had made me someone special in here with all these facilities meant for each and everyone of us. That's awesome!

Just as awesome as last night's stroll along the beach with him walking side by side. The sounds of the waves tickling at our feet kept us accompanied as we walked and talked and laughed under the bright moon. Basically I let him do all the talking while I was trying my best to be a good listener to all his words and whines. Whines? That's another side of Nick Carter I've been seeing lately. Yeap his whining and I guessed I am already accustomed to it now.

Sometimes I really wonder if I were to stay on in Australia, would I ever be here in the first place? To enjoy the night scenery with my best friend sitting next to me as we counted stars from the sky above.

Serendipity.

I read that in one of his letters in the past and in fact I still remembered what he said in that letter. Things happened for a reason and I'm glad that the reason for what was happening around here had brought me to him. At least I know one of my wishes had been granted and that to meet up with him apart from having my fingers crossed for the election on the post of the Publicist in the ocean campaign. Nah! I'm not going to think about that for now… not going to let it spoil my day with worries and stuff.

So Nicole, erase, erase, erase!

And it was because of serendipity too, that I'm lying here admiring his boyish face at work. His messy bangs often got in his view as he stroke them to the back before he put his full concentration on the screen. He looked calmer now and how I wish I could touch that calmness portrait in his face as he bit his lower lips but guess the time was not right yet. Not now. We are best friends and we'll stick to that, at least for the mean time and there's no way am I going to jeopardise this friendship for anything else in the world.

Gosh! I think its time for me to greet him with my morning hugs and of course I can't wait to plunge into the clear swimming pool with him and this time I am not going to let him win! Go to Top

Chapter 1: Last Night

The coal were burnt to perfection. Now, it was only glowing in the BBQ pit, it's heat perfect for grilling. For the ten of them, it was the night to be taken advantaged of. Tomorrow, all of the paradise would be left behind. For Nicole, as she craned her neck up to admire the beauty of the blinking stars and full moon, her dream was about to end. She wished for it not to, but she knew once the moon gave way to the morning sun, it would.

The night couldn't have been more beautiful. The weather was cool and windy, the heat from the barbeque pit blown by the wind teased her skin and warmed her up at the same time. As she sat on one of the wooden chairs sipping on her coconut drink, her attention was brought back to reality when she heard the familiar squabbling of Nick and AJ.

"You burnt the damn chicken wings again Chaos!" AJ yelled as he lifted a blackened chicken wing with his thong. Even in the dark, she could see the blush on Nick's face as clear as daylight. He raised his soot-covered hand and rubbed his temple, leaving behind traces of black ash on his forehead.

Giving what Nicole had learnt as Nick Carter's 'what's-the-big-deal' shrug, he said, "It's still edible."

AJ scrunched up his nose and placed the burnt meat on a new paper plate and shoved it to Nick. "You eat it then. I'm not touching it."

"Fine, be that way. Do you have any idea how many homeless kids around the world would die for this?" Nick asked exaggeratedly as he placed the delicacy to his face. AJ pushed his hands away in a flash.

"Yes Nick, they could actually die after eating this." AJ shook his head and started placing new chicken on the grill.

"Well then, since you're so good at this, I'm just going to leave it to you while I go back there and appreciate this food." Nick smiled and left him. Nicole already had a small smile on her face as she watched him strut his way back to her. He looked so comfortable wearing what she learnt was 'batik sarong'. It was just a piece of cloth that they wrapped from the waist down, like a skirt, only that the 'sarong' could be worn by both men and women. With his huge baby blue shirt covering the knot on his waist and his dampened blonde flock and soot-covered face, he was still a sight to behold.

"Everyone, eyes on food." Howie announced and the rest of the gang immediately acted busy with their food.

"Why?" Nicole asked, as she looked at Brian trying his best to make Leighanne swallow a chicken thigh whole.

"My advice is you do the same Nicole. Or-" Kevin couldn't finish his advice, Nick had already reached them.

Pulling out the chair next to Nicole, he placed the plate of burnt chicken wing down on the table and smiled at her.

"What have you got there?" Nicole asked as he took his seat. She thought she heard Brian chocked on his food.

"I heard that!" Nick hissed. Nicole was still in the dark. The frown on his face disappeared as soon as he laid his eyes on her again. "I grilled this for you."

She felt all blood drained off her face. No way. "Um…I still have mine. I don't think I can finish all."

"She's not some homeless kid, Nick. You don't have to kill her." Kevin said matter-of-factly without even looking at him. Kristin gave him a slap on his shoulder. "What's that for?"

"That's just mean." Kristin said, although Nicole could see that she was trying her best not to smile.

"You're such a bad liar, you know that?" Kevin pointed out and that got Kristin laughing.

"I know."

Soon, they were all laughing except for Nick "Yeah, funny huh?"

"Nick, I know AJ was being an asshole, but don't you think it's just a bit too much to have Nicole eat that to proove your point?" Sarah giggled.

"It's not that bad." Nick shrugged again and started pressing on the hardened meat.

"Care to show us Nick?" Leigh B, Howie's girl friend joked.

"Huh?" Nick asked, still confused. Nicole found this too amusing to interfere.

"Like eat it, right now." Brian explained, putting on his best serious face.

Nick sighed and raised the chicken up, inspecting it with uncertainty on his face. "It's not that bad…"

"You seriously gonna eat that?" Nicole asked.

"Do I look like I'm joking?" Nick asked sarcastically. Nicole shrugged. "Okay then, go ahead, kill yourself."

"Come on Nick, it's burnt right to the bone. It's gonna taste awful!" Leighanne persuaded.

"Well, we're not gonna waste food now, are we?" Nick said, rolling his eyes.

"We agreed not to waste food, we never agree we should eat crap." AJ said as he made his presence known, a plate filled with hot, perfectly grilled chickens placed in the middle of the table. He snatched the burnt chicken away from Nick and placed it with a new one.

"Here, this will taste better." AJ threw the burnt one behind some bush before Nick could argue about it.

"Why are you suddenly so nice?" Nick asked wearily.

"I'm not. But we're flying back home tomorrow and I don't want an upset stomach Nick Carter when we're thousands of feet up in the air."

Brian raised his hands as if in surrender. "You better not Chaos. Just eat this one instead. You wouldn't wanna keep visiting the plane's toilet. Nasty."

"Whatever." Nick sighed as he took a bite of the chicken wing. His face contorted as if in pain and spat out the chewed meat back on the plate. "IT'S STILL RAW ON THE INSIDE, YOU IDIOT!"

*~*

"That's the last one." Nicole said as she watched Nick zipped up the last of their luggage bags and placed it next to the sofa.

Nick stretched his sore muscles from all the packing they had done after the Barbeque and the clock showed it was already twelve thirty in the morning. "I think it's time we head for bed, we're gonna have to wake up early at five."

Nicole let out a stifled yawn and dragging her feet to the bed with Nick resting his arm over her shoulder, she couldn't quite believe that they had spent two months practically sleeping on the same bed and nothing happened.

"I don't want this dream to end." Nick said all of a sudden.

Nicole looked up at him and smiled. "I know. Bahamas is really lovely, thanks."

Nick frowned and shook his head. "No, that's not what I meant. I mean after tonight, I'm not gonna be able to sleep on the same bed as Nicole Carrie. That sucks!"

Nicole shoved his arm off her shoulders and pushed him playfully. "Jerk."

"Hey, not that I really enjoyed the whole experience. For a beautiful girl such as yourself, you snore quite loudly." Nick joked.

Nicole stopped and stared at him. "What did you say?"

"You snore woman. Get over it. Life ain't perfect." Nick shrugged.

"Not that bit. The 'beautiful girl' bit. Say that again." Nicole said seriously.

Nick smirked and pushed her down to the bed, catching Nicole by surprise. She struggled to free herself as she felt his fingers making his way to her sensitive areas, trying to tickle her.

"Nickolas!…stop…it!" Nicole giggled as she failed to free herself.

"Who's beautiful?" Nick asked, not letting her go.

"Okay…okay…I'm ugly…just stop it!" Nicole laughed, not caring if the others could hear them this late.

Nick immediately stopped. He was on top of her and he smiled before roughly slamming his body down next to her. Both staring into the brown attap hut above. "Wrong answer Nic, you're beautiful. No one's ugly." Nick said as he turned his head slightly to face her.

"You're beautiful too. But I'm sure you already know that." Nicole said.

"Yeah, I do." Nick giggled.

"Snob." Nicole scoffed.

"And you liked this snob guy." Nick added.

"I do." Nicole smiled.

"Tough luck." Nick smiled.

"Yeah." Nicole shrugged playfully.

"Now who's the snob?" Nick pointed out.

"Hey, it takes one to know one." Nicole joked.

Nick shook his head. "I can never win with you Nicole. You outwit me every time, it's draining."

"You finally met your match." Nicole said triumphantly.

Nick went silent. She was the perfect match for him. In everything that he do, she seemed to be the only one who understood him. Never there to criticise but always there to support and share his dreams.

"Nicole?"

"Hmmm?"

Nick turned his body sideway and propped his elbow and rested his head on his palm. Now, he could look into those bright greens clearly. "I want to know if we're on the same page on this."

"Same page on what?" Nicole asked as she too turned sideway and rested her head on her palm. Now, she could look into those deep ocean blue eyes clearly.

"I have feelings for you. Deep feelings, which I'm not gonna hide. How about you?" Nick tried to read her expression but all he could see was her downward gazing eyes, her fingers making circles on the bedspread. When she finally looked up again, he swore he could see only honesty in those eyes.

"We're on the same page Nick, that much I can tell you." She smiled and Nick couldn't be any happier.

"That's good to know."

"So what are we gonna do about it?" Nicole asked, braving herself for the ultimate question. Where are they going from there?

"I would love nothing more than to wake up with you next to me every morning. But I don't think that's fair for you."

Nicole frowned. "Why would that be?"

"Well, you have to adapt to living in Florida first. And then there's getting around to working as the Publicist at NCOC. If we were to live together and make this happen-"

"Whoa! Back up a little bit." Nicole cut in.

"Could you ruin the mood any more?" Nick sighed as he laid on his back again. Nicole wouldn't let the matter rest. She pushed herself up and sat on the bed, pulling on Nick's hand.

"Did you just said I'm gonna be the Publicist for NCOC?" Nicole cried.

"Yeah. Didn't I tell you?" Nick smiled.

"You jerk! You didn't tell me! You made me wait all these time?" Nicole smacked his hand, trying to look as if she was hurt; but she couldn't stop the smile from spreading on her face. Her dream was coming true!

"Hey, where's the love?" Nick whined. "Shouldn't I get my thank you kiss or something?"

"Kiss? You're soooo way out of your league. Bestfriends don't kiss each other. And we already agreed we're gonna be just that for now." Nicole pointed out.

"I'm not asking much, just a peck on the cheek, make this 2 months complete for us." Nick teased.

"For you, you mean?" Nicole said. "Fine." Nicole bent down and as they were only inches apart, she whispered, "Thanks for the job. You won't regret it." Her lips touched his cold cheek but Nick turned his head purposely and she met with the warmth of his lips.

It was a small kiss. Her lips touching his, it lingered there for a moment and she felt everything else moving around them. She couldn't do anything more than closed her eyes and telling herself this was what she wanted. To kiss him over and over again. To fall in love with him.

She felt his hands cupping her face, his thumbs rubbing her cheeks, and as she opened up her eyes, she found him staring back at her. Somewhere along the line, he had pulled himself back. Where his lips once were, was now empty space. She licked her lips, savoring the taste of him. He smiled.

He got up and sat facing her, taking both her hands into his and rubbing warmth into it. She must still be in shock for she couldn't remember saying anything to him at all. She kept her silence as Nick suddenly looked somewhat solemn. He was so serious that she felt that he had miraculously aged in front of her. The Nick Carter now staring back at her had experiences held in the stare of his eyes. It showed his laughter and his sadness, the child and the man in him. The innocence and the mischieves. Nicole wondered if she had successfully opened up the window to his soul and unravel the truth of Nick Carter.

"I can't love you the way I want to because once we get back to Florida, things will go crazy. I can't be there for you all the time like I wanted to as a boyfriend. And I want you to start your life new here and not hold back anything else. I want you to be free for the first time and enjoy life as it is. And even after all that craziness, when you've settled down and you're comfortable having a relationship with a Backstreet Boy and with me, I promise you, we will kiss again. And when that time comes, it will be forever."

"And what if I don't want to kiss you again?" Nicole asked, a smirk on her face.

"Then I'll be damn."

"You would, wouldn't you?" Nicole smiled.

"And you just have to spoil this moment again."

"Cause I can't bug you with my P.S anymore." Nicole giggled.

"Can we not start on that again, please?" Nick begged.

"Oh PPS Nick, I would have died if I had eaten that chicken wing." Nicole teased.

"Well, PPPS Nicole, I'd like to try your cooking some times." Nick bickered.

"Then PPPPS Nick, I only cook for my boyfriend."

"PPPPPS Nicole, I will be your boyfriend, mark my words."

"Okay, PPPPPPPS Nick, goodluck, just so you know, I won't be sitting around waiting for you."

"PPPPPPPS Nicole, I could be your boyfriend right now."

"PPPPPPPPS Nick, but you know you can't."

"PPPPPPPPPS Nicole, why is that, may I ask?"

"PPPPPPPPPPS Nick, cause you just told me so romantically just now that you want me to be free and start life anew."

"PPPPPPPPPPS Nicole, I take that back."

"PPPPPPPPPPPS Nick, you can't. Sorry dude."

"PPPPPPPPPPPPS Nicole, that sucks."

"PPPPPPPPPPPPPS Nick, I know. And I'm winning at this so just stop already."

"PPPPPPPPPPPPPPS Nicole, hell no! You give up!"

"PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPS No YOU give up!"

"No YOU!"

"Ha! You didn't say PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPS!"

"So did you!"

"Well you forgot first!"

"That didn't count!"

"Did too!"

"Did not!"

"Did too!"

"Did not!"

*~* "I could end all this if you would only let go of my arm!" AJ cried as he tried to pull free from Sarah's grip.

"Baby just let them be, you're taking this too far!" Sarah pointed.

"LET THEM BE??? HOW MUCH MORE CAN YOU TAKE? I WANT HIS HEAD NOW!" AJ almost yelled. "NO WAIT! I WANT BOTH THEIR HEADS NOW! LOVEBIRDS KISS MY ASS!"

Go to Top

Chapter 2 : A Brand New Day

The first day at NCOC began early for Nicole. As a new Publicist for a new born charity foundation, she had inherited the task of publicising and promoting their main objective in setting up the said foundation alongside with the other three organisations.

First she has to undergo a short interview session on her capability to establish the said new foundation so that people were aware of its existence. It was not difficult for Nicole to convince the lady who was in her mid-thirties and her assistant with her witty answers yet based on strong facts and self opinions on how to make the foundation a successful one. Ms Kate, the Managing Director was attracted by Nicole's deep knowledge and keen interest in preserving the wild life in the ocean despite of her young age. Once in a while she will whispered to her assistant and later turned to Nicole with an assurance smile.

Nicole's past experiences in dealing with paperwork related to the ocean campaign impressed Ms Kate. She knew if Nicole continued to show her good work in the club, she will have a long bright years awaiting for her especially when it comes to hold such a big responsibility.

"So what do you think Ross?" Whispered Ms Kate as she flipped the last page of papers in Nicole's file.

"Well… judging from all these papers and her correspondence… I think she's ready for the job but… its up to you…" He whispered back as he shrugged his shoulders lightly.

Ms Kate nodded her head and pulled herself closer to her desk as she concentrated on the figure sitting in front of her. Nicole wore a navy blue suits with her brunette hair all tied up in a bun and nicely clipped with glittering love clips. Not too much make up to flourish her natural looks except for glossy pink lipstick to enhance out her full lips.

"Alright Nicole… I've read your paperwork with regards to preserving wild life at Port Stephens in Australia and all your ocean assignments as well as your ocean outdoor activities… very impressive I should say for someone at your age… so before we start on anything else… let me just ask you this question… since you were the chosen one to carry this responsibility of being a Publicist, what changes would you like to bring for NCOC?" Ms Kate asked as she closed Nicole's file and placed it gently on her desk. She turned to the brunette girl sitting comfortably in front of her as she leaned back to her huge armchair.

Nicole smiled.

There were just so many things in her mind and she wasn't sure which one to start with. Perhaps she's being too excited to share her thoughts with the two interviewers.

"Well… in my opinion… changes lies mainly on the awareness of people living in the surrounding… What I meant by their awareness is that we have to change their perspective views on the importance of… conserving another beauty form of nature in the deep blue ocean." Nicole stopped as she forced her saliva down her sultry throat.

It wasn't that difficult to let everything out but judging from the way they looked at her simply ate up her usual guts in giving speech.

"As you know all the while people are trying hard launching different kinds of campaigns with different kind of motives… and in fact they have successfully drawn the attention of the public in preserving the wild life… this may sounds a bit off topic, but I hope you can bear with me for a little while…"

"Sure go ahead with it Nicole…" Supported Ms Kate, showing her interest in knowing more from the young lady who anxiously stating out her points of view.

"Thanks… like what I said earlier on… wild life such as the native birds consisting of Hawaiian Stilt… the Great Frigate Bird… and animals such as the White Tigers originating from India… hmmm… the African Rhinoceros… these animals are in the brink of e animals are in the brink of extinction and with these campaigns, the organisers managed to get the attention from the public in controlling and protecting these endangered land animals… and I'm pretty sure that if we can get the same kind of attention from these crowd or maybe even more… then I'm sure we can make them realise how important their roles are… in pertaining the population of sea creatures… such as mussels, or maybe even crayfishes, amphibians and other assorted fish."

Ms Kate was gaping as she listened attentively to Nicole's explanation She was fascinated by the way Nicole showed her anxiety in conveying her views with her hands gestures, just like a small kid trying to convince people with their talent in story-telling.

Nicole stopped and turned to Ms Kate and Ross. "May I?" She asked as she stood up.

"Sure… go ahead…" Continued Ms Kate as she nodded her head approving to her request to stand up.

Nicole walked up and stood right to the other end of the table but still keeping an eye contact with them.

"If the American Ocean Campaign can launched a huge promotion in recruiting more people to support their goal, then I would dare to say that we… will have no problem to build that consciousness inside them…. This is because ocean campaign is not something new revolving around the community these days, there are many other clubs or organisers actively seeking for election in making their own promotion so…" Nicole stopped and smiled in anticipation.

Her confident wanted them to make a guess on what she's been thinking and she has successfully done so when Ms Kate creased her forehead as if she was expecting Nicole to continue.

"So… what we need to do right now is not merely by distributing brochures and pamphlets, newsletters or magazines… these are secondary needs in promoting our main agenda… we need to come up with endless exciting promotions and campaigns to bring out our purpose of getting their supports to preserve and protect these ocean wild life. They need to be jabbed with passion and not with force, not with something they won't be able to relate themselves with our mission. Therefore… I think everyone plays a part to make this changes, I think that's about all for now…" She ended her long speech with a blushing smile as she knew how much time she has taken to impress both her employers. Must be the blabbering and stuffs, she thought as she gave a light shrug on her shoulders.

"That… that was marvellous Nicole… I mean… I am so impressed…" Ms Kate managed to exchange glances with her assistant before she turned back to Nicole. Even Ross carved out a broad smile too as he nodded his head to Nicole.

"Well… thank you… actually I'm blabbering a lot in here and I'm so sorry to take up so much of your time… you know, I mean I know how busy both of you are and here I am stating all the facts and stuffs-''

"No, no! Its okay Nicole… I'm very impressed with your knowledge… frankly if you hadn't been talking about that, I doubt I will know anything about those native birds… what's the name again… Hawaiian steel?"

"Its Hawaiian Stilt ma'am." Corrected Nicole with a smile. Her red rosy cheeks were getting brighter with red not only because of her blushes but also after taking such a compliment from someone like Ms Kate.

"See my point now?" Laughed Ms Kate as she tapped on Ross's shoulders. "That was an incredible piece of information from you… where did you learn that from?" She asked again.

"Well… its the courtesy of those who made the wild life documentaries I guess…" Said Nicole jokingly.

"I seldom see girls, teenage girls like yourself… I mean… how old are you again Nicole?"

"Twenty ma'am."

"Hmmm… a 20 year old girl who is going to sizzling the world with her work… that's quite an achievement…"

"Well… I should thank you for giving me the chance-''

"Not me… but at least I'm glad that they picked you during the previous interviews and we love giving bright and talented kids like you the opportunity to shine the world with your own creativity… guess… I've learnt one thing from here… that don't and never underestimate someone by their age, don't you think so Ross?" Continued Ms Kate as she gave a loud laugh.

"I'm with you Kate… and Nicole… if you continue to keep this spirit of yours flaming throughout your stay in here and keen to work harder then you will definitely have a smooth sail in your future…" Supported Ross as he smiled at her.

Nothing could be much happier to Nicole than to hear their sincere confession on her ability to take up the assigned job and she promised to take every inch of it into great seriousness and will do all her best to bring the club out to the world. That was her dream, and that was her promise.

"Thank you so much… so… when can I start?" Asked Nicole excitedly.

Ms Kate smiled at Nicole's enthusiasm to start her work. She's beginning to love Nicole for her intellectual knowledge, enthusiasm and courtesy with people around her. The childlike inside her was obvious in her laughters, in her eyes, in her body language and in the way she's blushing.

"Calm down sweetheart, before I let my assistant, this handsome gentleman here, Ross to show you around the building, I have to welcome you first with a handshake right?" Nicole smiled and shook her head with embarrassment at the same time. Her cheeks were fiery red as she stood up. "Welcome aboard Nicole and I hope you enjoy your stay here. If there's anything you need, don't feel shy to approach either Ross or myself or any other staffs in this building… we will try to assist you as much as possible…" Ms Kate stretched out her hands and Nicole reciprocated it with a warm handshake.

"Thank you Ma'am… I will try my almighty best to help NCOC…" Said Nicole as she turned to Ross and shook his hands.

"Alright then… come Nicole, let me show you around and then I'll show you to your little compartment…" Said Ross as he led Nicole out. He had asked Nicole to wait outside while he went back to get her files and the Appointment Letter to be signed by the Managing Director.

"Here Kate…"

"What's this?" Asked Ms Kate as she was busy typing on the keyboard.

"Nicole's Appointment Letter for your signature." Upon hearing the young girl's name, brought a wide smile on her face.

"Where?"

"Here…" Ross placed the blue ledger paper with a plain white paper on the desk.

"Ross… what do you think of her?" Asked Ms Kate.

"Who? Nicole?" He frowned wondering if he ever guessed it correctly.

"Who else then! What do you think of her?" Ms Kate repeated her question.

"I think that girl is damn good! I mean… she really has that X-factor Kate and I'm sure she will do a great job…" After hearing Ross's confession, all the more she was proud of Nicole. "By the way why do you ask me that?"

"Oh! I was wondering if you like her."

"Everyone will love such an intelligent, well-behaved and sweet girl like Nicole… well… I've got to go now, she's waiting for me outside…" Said Ross as he took the papers and walked directly towards the door.

"Ross! Don't forget to tell her, I want her to come down for our board's meeting this afternoon at two." Ross nodded his head showing sign that he got the message and closed the door behind him.

"Alright Nicole… here it is… this is your Appointment Letter… and these are simply pamphlets about NCOC for your reference, basically about rules and regulations and stuffs…" Ross handed to Nicole the ledger blue paper and a stack of pamphlets for her.

"Thank you Mr. Ross-''

"Oh come on! Don't be so formal with me! I'm not that old afterall… so just call me Ross will do…"

"Fine then… Mr… eeerrr… Ross?"

"Good… that's better… come let's go…" Ross led Nicole all the way down to introduce their receptionist, Jenna.

"Jen… meet this is Ms Nicole Anne Carrie… she's our new Publicist…" Nicole stretched out her hands and smiled at the plump figure standing in front of her.

"Welcome in Ms-''

"Just call me Nicole will do…" Said Nicole softly as she shook her hands lightly.

"Hmmm… welcome aboard Nicole…" Jenna said before their conversation was interrupted by a phone call. "Yes Ma'am… Ross is here… sure… you hold the line please… hmmm… excuse me Ross but Ms Kate is on the line… she wants to speak to you…" Whispered Jenna as she handed over the receiver to Ross.

"How long have you been here?" Asked Nicole as she approached Jenna who was standing behind her reception table.

"Well… almost two months I guess… you know the club is still new and its not fully functioning except that we have to make sure things are working on accordingly before its official opening…" Nicole nodded her head lightly.

"I see… so when is the official opening?" Nicole asked.

"I'm not sure myself… but I heard from the others, it could in a month's time… maybe… you know all these people, they simply love changing the dates so until we have the schedule in hands, nothing has been certain yet…" Continued Jenna.

"I will inform her then… sure… okay… okay…" Ross put down the receiver and turned to Nicole who was still talking to Jenna. "Okay girls sorry to disturb you but Nic… shall we go now?"

"Sure… I'm ready to go…" Said Nicole excitedly.

Ross brought Nicole first to the pantry area which was on the ground floor followed by the 2nd floor consisting the Administration department and the Human Resources department while the Financing and Statistic departments were on the 3rd floor. The Commercial department which consists of printing and promoting of one campaign and project was located on the 4th floor and that was where Nicole will be embarking her new career as a Publicist whereas the main offices and the two large conference rooms were located on the 5th storey. The 6th storey was an auditorium meant for future publicising purposes, well equipped with hi-tech sound system and great air-condition system.

After orienting around the building and introducing Nicole to most of the staffs in the all departments which took almost half the day, Ross brought her back to the Commercial department where she was led to her own office.

The place was divided into two rooms. One of the path led them to the printing room which was well-equipped with the latest model of printer that could be used for large amount of printing processes and blueprint on large poster and stuffs.

"There are two main persons handling all these printing jobs… all you have to do is to give them whatever documents to be printed out and automatically they will convert it accordingly to the printing format without the need to change anything from the original piece. These jobs require great experiences coz printing is one of the most important thing for this club, without proper installation of printing procedures, we may never get good products no matter how good is one idea based on the diskette-''

"Hi Ross! Hey! You got a new girl now huh!" Teased one of the men who was attentively doing his maintenance work at the printer.

"Hey Joe! Come on out! Let me introduce to you our new Publicist!" Shouted Ross as he signalled to his subordinate.

"Nic… this is our big man here who knows everything about printer… he's our printer man and he's our printer maintenance man-''

"Hey don't forget I am the delivery man too!"

"Yeah! He's taking most of the jobs in here!" Teased Ross as he gave a light punch on his stomach.

"I'm Nicole and you are Mr…."

"Oh come on! I'm not used to people calling me Mr… just call me Adam will do! You know Adam King but nah! Forget about the King thing, just call me Adam will be perfect!" Laughed Adam. Nicole began to realise something and that almost all the staffs she met in this building love laughing a lot. Perhaps that could be the trademark of them staying united together. At the same time she too, admired the relationship between the employers and their employees.

It was special and Nicole was happy to be a part of that environment.

"Alright then… its nice meeting you Adam!"

"Its always a pleasure to meet you Nicole! You can ask me to print anything, fix anything but just don't ask me about publicising… that's not my territory… I'll leave that to you to handle…" He said as he laughed again. Nicole gave a light giggles before someone entered the room and broke the laughter.

"Oh Nic… this is Joe… Adam's assistant… he'll be the one helping out in the printing processes and he's the one who's in charge of purchasing and ordering of papers, I mean what kind and what type of papers you want… he will be doing all the ordering for you… Hey Joe! Meet our new Publicist!" Joe merely turned around and flew a weak smile over to Nicole.

Nicole smiled back.

"I hope you don't mind him… he's actually a nice lad but its just that… his whole family just passed away in a nasty accident so he's kinda distraught right now… I mean… imagine losing all his family members in a split second… he's barely 24… poor chap…" Continued Ross as he shook his head lightly.

"No its okay… I understand that…"

"Great… just give him some time and you will get used to it… but if you do have any problems or you need them to print anything don't be afraid to go up to him-''

"I will Ross… don't you worry…"

"Alright then… let me get you to your office now… great job guys… got to go now… see ya around!" Shouted Ross to the two gentlemen.

"Sure! See ya… see ya Nicole!" Adam called out as he waved at her.

"Sure!" Nicole left the room and followed Ross from behind. Her eyes were attracted by all kinds of posters being hung on the wall. One of them was on dolphins.

"Hey Alice!" Shouted Ross as he approached the empty room.

"I'm here! I'm right here!" Nicole turned and saw a thin lady coming from behind.

"Where have you been?"

"Ladies where else!" This time round Nicole got a closer look at the lady. She looked totally different from afar. Nicole almost thought she was a young girl, almost the same age as she was but as the lady approached her, Nicole was surprised to find strands of white hairs on her head. Perhaps it was the baby pink scarf on her head that camouflaged her age from afar.

"Alice… remember the Publicist I told you about the other time? Well… here she is… she's Ms Nicole Anne Carrie…" Alice brought down her glasses to inspect the young lady standing in front of her.

"Ms Nicole-''

"Nicole will do… hi Alice!" Nicole always made a point to stretch out her hands first before the other party does.

"That's a pretty nice name there! Hi Nicole… I'm Alice and I'll be your assistant during your stay in here!" Said Alice as she put on her glasses back to reciprocate her tentative hands with a warmth handshake.

Nicole was surprised to find herself having an assistant for all these while she's used to work alone in her own turf and now to have someone there to assist her somehow made her felt uncomfortable.

Its not that she wanted to have one woman show but she's afraid if it happened without to her realisation that she's being such a fussy staff and thus creating problems in their working relationship.

"Wow! I have an assistant… that's cool…"

"We thought it will be better for you to have an assistant who will be able to assist you in your future assignment-''

"But rest assure that I won't stand in your way of doing your work neither will I meddle with your stuffs-''

"That's right! Alice has an experience of being an assistant for a Publicist for almost ten over years so you don't have to worry anything about that." Ten over years? That caught Nicole by surprise. She's hardly reached anywhere to that number of years and here she's standing with her assistant. Now, she's figuring out on how to make Alice realised what she wanted was a colleague and not an assistant.

"Thanks… it will be great for us to work together Alice… I'm sure I still have a lot more to learn from you-'' Her sentence was cut off by Alice's sudden laughter.

"Gosh! You really knows how to make me laugh now dear… we have a lot more to learn from each other… I don't know your style of working and you don't know how I take my job but I'm sure we can make it happen right?"

"You bet!" Said Nicole as she gave her hug.

"Great… looks like Alice, I'll leave Nic in your hands now… show her to her room and whatever is necessary coz I've got to go now… and Nicole, Kate wants me to inform you that she wants you to come over for the Board's meeting today at 2 sharp at Conference Room 2! You know how to get there?" Asked Ross as he opened up his hands. She nodded her head. "Good so I'll see ya there at?"

"2 sharp!" Ross smiled proudly as he made his way out of the room.

"He's gone now! Come let me show you to your room!" Alice switched on the lights and Nicole was amazed by the architectural layout of the room. It was no doubt that the room was small but looked pretty spacious with the right furniture and the right stationary decorating the whole room.

"So do you like it?" Asked Alice. Nicole gave her a strange look before she gave a wide smile.

"Of course I love it Alice! Thank you so much!" Exclaimed Nicole as she walked towards her desk. Everything was neatly arranged. All the files on her tables were nicely stacked in the file holders and all the floppy dicks were orderly stacked in the holders.

"I knew you're going to like it and in fact you have to… even if you have to lie coz I've been spending all week long decorating this room!" Alice said in a mixed of laughter and hope. She really hopes that Nicole will love her effort but Nicole definitely appreciated every bit of it even to the slightest.

"Oh Alice! This is just so sweet of you… trust me when I said I love it very much and I really do… thank you!" Said Nicole as she walked in towards her desk.

"I should be the one saying thank you now for you have make this old lady very happy today!" Exclaimed Alice as she showed Nicole to her seat.

"No! You don't have to do that… you are making me feel bad now… I'm not used to have people working for me but I'm all used to work with people so don't make this an exceptional one alright…"

"My… my… you sound more matured than I thought! Frankly when Ross told me about some a young girl coming over to take up this post, I was expecting it to be some spoilt brat but guess… I was wrong…" Nicole smiled as she tilted her head to look at Alice.

"So… did I give you that impression when the first time you saw me?" Asked Nicole.

"Not at all."

"Not at all? Not even a slight impression of it? I don't think so… right?" Finally Alice admitted to her true first impression on Nicole.

"Alright! Alright! Really… when I saw you just now, all those thoughts simply vanished into thin air and I'm glad that I can assist you in whatever way I could-''

"Not assist me but work with me Alice… we have to work together now… and for a start where can I get the club's activities programmes?" Asked Nicole as she flipped through the paper files on the table.

"I'll get it for you-''

"No I can get it myself-''

"No Nic! Like you said we have to work together so now let me do my part and that's to get you the programmes and to keep you informed about your meetings, your outings and your appointments coz that's my scoop of job… so now you stay here and get yourself prepared for today's meeting at 2…"

"But Alice-''

"No more buts now young lady… you have approximately half an hour's more to go get ready and I suggest that you make use of that time to rest coz the first meeting is going to take long…" Continued Alice and Nicole couldn't bring herself to argue more with her. Alice left her alone in the room to get in touch with the atmosphere and the surrounding of her own room.

Everything in the room completed her needs to do her usual routine and every little thing seemed to entice her and made her squeal in silent. Her green eyes became brighter each time she saw interesting stationary lying on her desk. She was busy entertaining to the words in the Ocean Book when someone intercom the line through her telephone.

"Miss Nicole… line one for you from Mr Carter…" Suddenly her serious face was lightened up with a smile, a wide one. At all the material times she was busy following Ross to each and every departments to be introduced as their new Publicist. The introduction alone took almost half the day and now she's preparing for her first meeting ever since the moment she stepped into the building.

The loud ringing tone broke her daze as she reached for the receiver.

"Hello?"

"Hey sweetie! What took you so long huh?" Asked the cheerful voice from the other end of the line.

"I'm picking my nose… what do you think? Of course I'm busy browsing through these pamphlets…" Said Nicole with light giggles.

"Hey! I almost thought you really did it!" Exclaimed his voice.

"Did what?"

"Pick your nose!" He laughed and hearing his laughter made her missed him more.

"Yeah right! So how come you are free now?" Asked Nicole as she leaned back to her chair.

"We're having a short break right now so I thought maybe it will be nice to disturb you on your first day at work." He said as he cleared his throat.

"Oh that is just so sweet of you Nickolas… I'm so touch for your thoughts… do make it a habit then!" Said Nicole sarcastically.

"Sure you bet! I'll even make it as my new hobby then!"

"We'll see then!"

"Yeah… we'll see- hey! Stop it! Hey! Give it back to me! Hey!" Nicole could hear Nick shouting from the other end of the line followed by a loud irritating squeal and cracking noises.

"Nick? Nick? Nick are you still there? Nickolas?" Nicole pressed the receiver hard to her ears so as to hear what was the commotion all about.

"Hi Nic! Howie's here!" Nicole was surprised to hear Howie's voice loud and clear.

"Hey how are you doing?" Asked Nicole as she scratched her forehead.

"We are doing great here sweetheart except for Nick… he keeps dreaming away-''

"Hey! That's not true! Don't listen to him! Aj! Let go of my hands! I said let go of my hands!" Shouted Nick from behind. Nicole gave a light giggles as she could already imagine how Nick was trying to free himself from the so-called human spider web. She has seen them doing that during the vacation and no doubt she can imagined them doing that right now.

"Nic… Nicole … I think AJ has just lost to Nick Carter and now he's giving me this eerie looks so… I think I have to pass the phone back to him-''

"You think D?" Asked Nick sarcastically from behind.

"Well… have a nice day at work Nic-'' Nicole could hear a sharp silence followed by AJ's mumbling from behind.

"Hello? Hello? Nick? Are you there?" Asked Nicole as she pouted her lips.

"Yeah I'm… here-''

"Yo Nick! You have five minutes bro!" The voice was so clear that Nicole could already distinguished it was AJ.

"I know! I know! Just go alright-''

"Don't forget-''

"I said just go! GO!"

"God! You are screaming at my ears now!" Exclaimed Nicole as she pulled the receiver away from her ears.

"Sorry about that-''

"Yeah you should!" Continued Nicole. "Should I?"

"Of course!"

"Fine! How about dinner tonight?" Nicole was tongue-tied. She would love to but on second thought… she was hesitating.

"We'll see about that huh-''

"I'm serious… the guys are inviting you over to Brian's place for dinner tonight! Leigh is cooking something for us!" Nicole shook her head as she looked down in blush. She was glad Nick was not there to watch how she blushed over her own thoughts. "So you'll be coming right?"

"Yeah… I'll be there after work then…"

"Well… if you want I can fetch you-''

"Nah! Its okay… I can go there by myself… afterall… I need to meet Nat first to pass over her things… maybe I'll get her to send me over…"

"Cool then… so… how's your first day? Busy much?" Asked Nick, still breathing hard from those hectic moments with AJ and Brian lunging at him from behind. They must have been plotting that since the moment they caught him day-dreaming while Kevin as usual would prefer to observe from afar. Sometimes Nick wonder why Kevin would kick a big fuss whenever he's the one playing the prank around but will remained silent when his cousin was one of the culprits playing tricks on him. Biased, he hissed to himself.

"Its great! Everyone is so friendly in here… they really make me feel so welcome… and you know what… I have a room for myself… I mean a room? Now that's real cool… and… and you should see these interesting stationary stuffs…" Shared Nicole excitedly as she held a staple on one hand while the other supporting the receiver.

"I can see that you are having more fun with the stationary huh?" Teased Nick as he giggled.

"Definitely! And…how's your recording today?" Nicole put down the staple and started to rock her armchair.

"Great! Everyone is so busy with lyrics and stuffs…"

"Guess you are busiest huh? You know… something like day-dreaming… does that ring a bell?" Laughed Nicole.

"Hahahaha… funny huh?" Nick gave a sarcastic cackle.

"Well… if you say so…" Continued Nicole.

"Fine!"

"Fine with me too!"

"Oh come on Nic! Don't start it again!" Said Nick in impatient manner.

"Well… since I'm at work so I'll spare you on this… for a while…"

"Yeah! Yeah! So I'm at your mercy then!"

"If you say so then!"

"Funny!"

"Geez… I didn't know its supposed to be amusing!" Jested Nicole with a spark of sarcasm in her remarks.

"Fine then! So… I guess you haven't taken your lunch yet huh?" Nick's question hammered her thoughts for a while. It was only then she realised how hungry she was at that time to survive merely on a slice of cheese bread which Natalie has left for her.

"Man! I'm all busy the whole day with my orientation and stuffs… I've forgotten lunch!" Exclaimed Nicole as she slammed her palm on her forehead.

"Hey! Its already half past one my dear girl and you didn't even have anything for a bite? You should grab something… you can't go on an empty stomach to work things out-''

"Fine! Fine! You are sounding like my daddy now!"

"Hey I thought that was supposed to be Kevin's territory!" Joked Nick as laugh.

"Funny huh! And you know what Nick?"

"What?"

"Your five minutes is up and I'm sure they're waiting for you in the studio now…" Nicole said calmly, trying hard to control herself from laughing too much but with Nick around, it meant happiness to her.

"Oh come Nic! You spoiling the moments again!" Grumbled Nick as he let out a heavy sigh from the other end of the line.

"Then don't blame me for not warning you… who knows they could just plotting another trick on you…" Warned Nicole trying to sound all serious.

"Well-''

"Nic here is the file-''

"Nick hold a sec… thanks Alice…" Alice nodded her head and left the room. "Hey… I have something to do now… so we'll continue this later tonight?"

"What if I don't want to put down the phone?"

"Who cares! I will put it down if I want to-"

"You sure you wanna do that Nicole?"

"I can do that but on second thought… Nah! I'm not that heartless afterall so about putting it down together?" Suggested Nicole.

"Fine but I have a question before we do that…"

"What now?"

"Do you miss me?" Nicole smiled, not any ordinary smile. It meant something for her, especially when its Nick Carter imposing that question to her.

"Do you?" Asked Nicole back and all she could hear was Nick's breath from the other side.

"What if I said I do?"

"Then you should know what my answer is…"

Nick smiled as he jumped with joy.

"Okay then … so… I'll see ya tonight?"

"Yeah… see ya… bye…"

"Bye…"

Nicole put down the receiver as she slouched deeper into her armchair. She has to admit that all those busy moments had kept Nick out of her mind for a while and his call has shot an instant electrifying feelings inside her. She couldn't believe how a call could change her life in a day. Those wonderful times she spent at Bahamas started to flood her mind and she smiled upon seeing them flashing straight in her eyes.

She closed her eyes before she released a deep breath.

Slowly she let her thoughts bygone in thin air as she opened up her eyes to face the schedule. She looked at her watch.

Perfect.

There's still some time left for her to make a slow walk to the conference room, at least if she's lost, she'll have the time to ask around instead of panicky. That will not give a good impression on the other board members in the meeting.

Then she grabbed the file on the table before she left her room and walked towards the elevator.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was five minutes past two when Ms Kate made her first entrance in the conference room. Nicole has already settled down at the last seat of the table, observing the other members in the room.

She realised that she was among the two ladies present in the meeting while the others were men. Well, almost of them were the same age as her, or most to most a few years older than her.

"Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen…" Greeted Ms Kate as she placed her file on the table.

"Good afternoon Ms Kate…" They greeted in unison as they were ready for the conference.

"Alright before I touch on anything… I'm sure I've told you that we are expecting our new Publicist today and for those who didn't get a chance to meet her earlier on… I introduce to you now our new Publicist… Ms Nicole Anne Carrie… she'll be the one in charge of publicising and promoting our ocean campaign…" The board consisting of seven gentlemen and three ladies inclusive herself welcome Nicole with soft claps. "And Nicole… meet this Anna, she's the Treasurer or in other words, she's the one in charge of financing, the young gentlemen over there is Alvin, Jimmy and to my right is Nathan, and Xander… they are our board committee members… they are the one who will be helping you in your promotion and stuffs… and next to Xander is our very experienced Mr. George… he's from JWR and we feel so honoured to have him in our team and he's the Advisory… and next to him is Mr. Andrew, he's in-charge of the Administration… and I'm sure you Ross here right?" Nicole nodded her head as she turned to Mr. George.

Nicole noticed that when she first stepped inside the conference room, the two older men especially Mr. George gave her a raised in the eyebrows. Every movement she made caught their attention and that was frustrating to her.

Perhaps they were having doubts lingering in their minds, wondering how far can a young girl like Nicole bring the whole club. Definitely they were expecting someone else to carry the responsibility. Someone who looked more matured, and someone who would have at least ten years of experience like Alice, to grab the post.

But for Nicole, it was a challenge for her to prove her ability so as to overset their worries and doubts in her capability being a Publicist in the club. She knew it was not going to be easy, not as easy as the time when she was being interviewed by Ms Kate and Ross, but giving up never seems to exist in her world. In fact, the other guys had been so much supportive to give her a warm welcome.

She was ready for anything now and nothing can stop her enthusiasm to start things off.

"So… Nicole… is there anything you would like to say before we begin?" Asked Ms Kate as she turned her attention to the young brunette girl who appeared to be slightly nervous.

Slowly Nicole stood up from her seat as she pushed the chair behind. Her fingers kept silently tapping on the file.

"Well… hmmm…" She cleared her throat. " Thank you Ms Kate for the introduction, and I'm… pretty sure that most of you in this room are surprise to see me walking in from that door as much as I'm quite surprise myself… for not getting lost to get in here…" Smiled Nicole as she tried to lighten up the seriousness in the room. "But of course… what is most important to me right now, is to take this opportunity to work together with each and everyone of you in here to help to bring NCOC up to another level and I'm sure to do so… is not just by having one man or woman show… but mainly on teamwork… I believe in teamwork and I believe we can do that as a team in this club… I can't say much right now because we still have a long way to go and frankly… if we work together, then I'm sure there's nothing we can't do, even if we want to bring this foundation out to the world… well… I think… that's about all I have to say for now Ms Kate…" Said Nicole as she sat down while the others were still stunned by her words.

Ms Kate gave her a proud smile. She knew how bright girl was, right from the moment she interviewed her earlier that morning. Nicole was a girl but not any ordinary girl. She's going to be the girl to bring the club out to the world. If she had had worries and doubts on how to make the campaign a successful one, then she wouldn't have to , not anymore with Nicole around.

"Very well-said there Nicole! You are so true… to make things happen either in a company, a club or even a foundation, the basic rule of success apart of being intelligent and having a critical mind, you need teamwork and I hope I can see that more often now… so people… is there anything else you would like to add before I start today's meeting?" Asked Ms Kate as she stood up and rested her palm on the table. She cooked her head sideways and looked at each member who attended the meeting. The moment her eyes darted straight at theirs, they will shook their heads and looked down.

Then she turned to Nicole's side and raised her eyebrows indicating some kind of a signal to the two gentlemen and an older lady sitting next to Nicole. They too, shook their heads.

"Good then… so I'll start then…" Lights were automatically switched off as a slide on 'NICK CARTER OCEAN CAMPAIGN" was projected on the huge white screen behind her. "As you know… we are representing Nick Carter Ocean Campaign or known as NCOC. Since NCOC is still a baby compared to the other three charity foundations and of course the world has yet to know anything about this club. There are so many things to be done to bring this club to the surface of the world so that people are aware of its existence… and the first step in doing so… is by…" The slide changed as Ms Kate moved away from her seat and started to tour around the table to explain the main function of NCOC.

They started things off with light discussions and ideas, notwithstanding with each member giving their own perceptions on what the publication should emphasise more in publicising the said foundation.

"I think its best that we get artists to convey these messages to the public… act as an Ambassador for the club." Said George, the man who was busy all the while in trying to connect his ideas to the group.

Artists? That sounds attractive, some kind like a commercial ads for those customers who linked themselves to the agency hoping they could sell their products. But that wasn't what Nicole had in mind. She wanted to make it different and special since its her first baby as a Publicist.

Nicole smiled as she gave light nods whenever George turned to her.

"I agree with him… you know… to make it big we need to use all those famous faces whom people were already familiar with… it will be easier for them to lure them to our campaign and thus… we will be gaining more supports and sponsorship from other related organisers." Supported the broad man sitting next to George.

"But-''

"I'm sure our campaign will run smoothly with them covering for our campaign… we should approach someone like Milla Kolovich… she's getting bigger now in her career as a model and actress… how about the lovely Cindy Crawford-''

"No… not Cindy Crawford people… I'm sure we do have many other choices right? Afterall… I doubt she has the time to make this promotion… give me other names please?" Interrupted Ms Kate as she shook her head.

"Well fine… how about Nicole Kidman? You know people love her with Tom Cruise and wherever there's Nicole, there'll be Tom Cruise… in other words we'll be killing two birds with one stones… or maybe singers? We do have singers making such promotions…" Continued George as he kept on stressing on using well-known artists as the main cover for their first grand opening.

"Sorry to interrupt this discussion but let me remind you that we have a budget people and our budget is still meagre… so we must know how to spend it wisely…" Interjected Anna, the team's treasurer.

"That's true! Furthermore… I don't feel like getting them into the picture as yet… just like what Anna said… we need to work accordingly to our budget…" Said Ross as he took off his spectacles and placed it on the table. He rubbed his eyes as he turned his attention to Ms Kate.

"That's right… we can't afford to spend more than what have been fixed for the commercial sake…" Supported Ms Kate as she agreed with her assistant.

"I can understand that but… this is the best idea we've got so far… unless… someone else has a better idea?" Asked George with a little resentment in his voice as he turned to the others.

Even Mr Andrew who supported Mr. George's idea earlier on took his seat and paid more attention to Nicole who was busy jotting down all the facts and suggestions given by them. She was happily entertaining her thoughts when she realised nine pairs of eyes were concentrating on her.

"Eeer…. yes?" She asked as she raised her eyebrows.

"Nicole do you have any suggestion or ideas on the first NCOC grand opening? I mean… as a Publicist I'm sure you do have ideas and suggestions right?" Asked Ms Kate as she stressed on her job. That was true. Nicole was always full of ideas, creative ones actually but this time round. She was hesitated at first to share her ideas because she knew she's not dealing with her own group of friends but people who had years of experience.

"Well… I…" She swallowed her saliva as she took a deep breath.

"Yes Nicole? Come on share it out with us… you do have one right?" Supported Ross as he gave her an assurance smile.

"Well… this is just my own point of view… there's no prejudice or whatsoever on Mr George's idea…" Said Nicole as she stood up. "May I?"

Ms Kate smiled at the young girl. "Sure…"

"Actually… I agree with Mr George's suggestion… that we should get those familiar faces as the ambassador for our campaign to pull more supports and attention… but then again… we also have to bear in mind with what Mr Ross has said earlier on… that we have a budget to stick on… so… in other words we really have to know who and what are we going to do with accordance to that budget… and most probably… most probably we can have a grand opening even without having to spend so much on approaching these famous figures to be the opening act for NCOC…" Said Nicole as she tried means and ways to get that eye contact with Mr. George.

"So… what would you suggest then?" Asked Ms Kate.

"Well… as we can see… NCOC is still a baby so in other word, it is new and it needs more exposure to the world… so I think what we need is to produce a theme for the said campaign…"

"A theme? You mean to have an objective so as we know what's the campaign is all about? Is that what you mean?" Asked Nathan.

"Exactly… because I think we should try to get more supports not only from the famous figures but… from the young generation in the whole worldwide… so if I'm given a chance… I would give this campaign a youth theme meaning-"

"We'll have to concentrate on the teenagers, right?" Asked Alvin, getting more interested in the discussion.

"That's right!" Exclaimed Nicole.

"I think she's right… first of all… kids can be easily manipulated, and when I say manipulated meaning they can absorb whatever good things that we are going to offer especially when it comes to charity work…" Supported Jimmy as he bit the cap of his pen.

"That's right, if we can get all these youths coming from all over the world together… and join hands in preserving all these wild life, then I'm sure… not only will this campaign be a successful one but it will go on and on… as long as we give them a chance to know and to protect these precious ocean wild life…" Said Nicole, sounding more confident now that she's got support from the other young members.

"That sounds interesting… so are you trying to tell me that you are going to concentrate mainly on the young generation for this campaign?" Asked Ms Kate.

"Not mainly on them but-''

"But what do all these young people know about ocean? I doubt they will even be interested to know our programmes… I mean let's look at the fact shall we? How many teenagers would rather spend their time to come and follow a certain organisers in their own activities? Very little… and now you are suggesting that we should concentrate on young generations? They won't even want to waste their time in listening to all these things and let alone to donate or sponsor anything?" Argued George as he shrugged his shoulders, showing a sign of victory over Nicole's suggestion.

Nicole smiled, and the more she smiled, the more he felt the pang of her sarcastic smile.

"Well… Mr George… I think what Nicole is trying to say is that-''

"Its true Ms Kate." Said Nicole.

"What?"

"I'm sorry to interrupt you but I think… what he said is true… if we are to conduct a survey, I'm sure Mr George is 98% correct but then again… let's think it in a more positive way… just like what Jimmy said earlier on… these kids can be easily manipulated by anything… If they can be influenced by bad companies and… and if we know just the right way to approach them to convey these awareness of preserving wild life then I'm sure… they will get the message right and then they will pass it on to their friends… from one friend to another and to another and eventually we are not only helping these wild life but also these innocent young kids from being astray-''

"Its easier said than done Ms Nicole! Its going to take ages to talk to these kids, let alone to get all these things inside their heads-''

"But you are forgetting one thing Mr George! I am a youth too, I'm just twenty but I can relate myself to commit to this campaign, not only because of my interest but those words stated in your brochures saying that, "Youth will be given a chance to prove their ability in competing with bad influences" and how about "This campaign opens to all youths who are interested in preserving wild life"… these words motivated me to join this club as I strongly believe that this club is providing good prospects for my future and I was expecting the same to be given to those kids… perhaps by not offering any positions in this club but by getting their involvement in our future outings or campaigns-''

"But-''

"I mean… just look at everyone in here… I dare to say that 80% of us here is still a youth… and yes I understand how much sponsorship is important to our club but trust me when I said these kids, these young generation is going to help us too in getting all these sponsorship if only we give them a chance to do so… and I doubt it will take ages to get these messages to them… if we know how and where to press the buttons… don't be surprise with their supports, anticipation and eagerness to join these activities." Continued Nicole as she gripped her pen tightly. A part of her was nervous especially with that sudden interruption by Mr. George, while another part of her was proud to be able to stand up for her fellow friends.

"I agree with Nicole… afterall we are still new and definitely we don't need much sponsorship right now… what we need right now is the support… if it comes to money wise… I think we can easily get Mr Carter to help us in that… he's an artist and its easier for someone like him to get any sponsorships without much difficulties…" Supported Xander as he turned to Nicole. She smiled back at him and in a way she was saying thank you in her eyes.

"And are you trying to say that you are going to put aside the aged group from this campaign?" That question from Mr. George came as a surprise.

It was unfair of Mr George to be so judgmental, she thought as she smiled, trying to cover up the disappointment on Mr. George's remarks.

"You're getting me wrong there Mr. George… I'm not saying that we are trying to put the aged group aside… the main purpose of this campaign is to get everyone involve and to do so… we have to start with kids… we can start by educating them in school, which is much more effective… as for the elderly group, we don't have to emphasise much as they have the brain to weigh the importance of these awareness and all we have to do is just to convince them a little bit more." Continued Nicole as she turned sharply to the older man standing at the opposite side of the table.

Both of them sat down, blowing breath of frustrations.

"Hmmm… that's a… very lively discussion… so… what do all of you suggest for the opening of NCOC? Are we still going to invite all these famous figures or what?" Asked Ms Kate as she turned to Nicole and then to Mr. George.

"Well… I strongly go for Nicole's suggestion, not being prejudice but I think the idea is cool…" Supported Nathan.

"Me too… I'm with Nathan." Jimmy said as he closed his file.

"Xander? What about you?" Asked Ms Kate.

"I'm with them too…" He nodded his head.

"Alvin?"

"Yeah… I'm with Nicole's idea too…" He said as he shrugged his shoulders.

"Ms Anna, Mr George and Mr Andrew? Any other ideas from you? Or shall we go with the others for Nicole's idea?" They managed to exchange glances before they shook their heads in unison.

"Good then… Nicole… I want a full proposal on NCOC'S grand opening and a speech… Anna, keep track on their expenses, Nathan and Jimmy… I want the two of you to be in charge of refreshment and free gifts… Alvin and Xander you'll be in charge of renting and supplying of things, Mr Andrew… I need the name list of guests who will be coming for the opening… Mr George, I might need you to give me the list of the programme for the whole day so in other words… you'll be working hand in hand with Nicole… I want everything to be ready by Wednesday so that we have time for any amendments or back up plans or whatsoever… we will have another meeting this Friday to finalise everything… have I make myself clear?"

"Yes ma'am…" They answered in unison.

"Great… Ross… I need discuss something with you so can you please see me in my room later on?"

Ross nodded his head as he got his spectacles on and closed his file. A wide smile shone on his face as he stood up to make his way out of the conference room.

The others followed suit leaving Nicole and George among the last few to leave the room. Nicole was about to walk out of the room when she saw George still flipping through his files.

"Well done Nicole." Said George from behind. His words came as a shock for Nicole as she stopped her steps.

"Oh… thanks… I'm… I'm really sorry about just now… I… I didn't mean to-''

"Nah! Do I look like I'm the petty sort? I know… I'm being a bit snob just now but hey! Its all about work and nothing personal alright…" Nicole nodded her head. "I like the way you present your opinions and definitely I'm amazed by your knowledge… you know old people like me used to think that we know everything but guess… its time that I'm giving young people like you a chance to dominate this line with more creative ideas…" He continued as he gave a short tap on Nicole's shoulders.

"No… its time we give ourselves a chance to work together… shall we?" Asked Nicole as she stretched out her hand.

"Yeah…" George took that hands with a warm smile. Nicole couldn't care less if that was sincere, as long as he's willing to give her a chance to prove her worth.

"I will definitely need your guidance and I will appreciate it very much if you could teach me the rope coz I've read your book before… established in the year 1988 about the first attempt in saving the wild life-''

"You did? Wow! That was my first and only book then-''

"And that was a great one. Really… I still have the book with me…"

"Keep up the good work Nicole… I've got to get going now…"

"Thanks Mr George…" George turned around and gave her a wink before he left the room.

Nicole was left alone in the room. She took a deep breath as she walked towards the window. Amazing, she thought. She has survived the first day at work without much difficulties and its all thanks to the supports by her colleagues and of course from her best friend, Nick Carter.

Nick Carter?

Nicole slapped her forehead with her palm knowing that she's going to be late for her dinner appointment with the others. Worst still, Natalie must have waited for her at the car park.

She grabbed her file and rushed off towards the elevator.

"What took you so long?" Natalie asked as she showed her watch.

"I'm sorry! I've got a long meeting… I totally forgot the time!" Explained Nicole as she gave her sister her ever innocent smile.

"Keep that smile away from me Nic! You know you are late and I am not going to spare you just because you give me that smile!" Chided Natalie as she started to turn the steering wheel.

"Fine! Fine! I'm sorry alright… hmmmm… how about me giving you a treat? You know… pizza or something?" Coaxed Nicole as she put on her seat belt.

"Hmmm… apology accepted then BUT I'm not free tonight-''

"Well I'm not talking about tonight! At least after I get my first pay huh?" Laughed Nicole leaving Natalie shaking her head in red.

"Funny huh!" Scoffed Natalie as she pressed on the accelerator.

"Was it? Eeeer… Nat… could you? You know… I know I'm late but really… you don't have to speed… whoa!" Screamed Nicole as she held on to her seat tightly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The conversation that took place between herself and Nick after dinner the night before kept playing in her head since the moment she walked out of the house to get to her working place. Its true what he said, she too will missed him now that they will be busy with their own tight schedules and programmes.

But her numerous meetings in a day and following Ms Kate to attend appointments with their future sponsors, giving brief introduction on their main objective in setting up NCOC kept her much busier than to entertain those thoughts.

Days after days and weeks after weeks, Nicole spent most of her time making researches in the local library as well as books she bought and ordered from another countries. She's always preoccupied with her work that she seldom has the time to pamper herself with good lunch or even a good rest. All her energy and efforts were used up in creating a perfect speech for the opening and running an errand almost all over the building to meet up with various departments.

The only time where she can leaned back to her chair and enjoyed a few moments of calmness was when she received calls from Nick Carter during his breaks.

"Hey! Have you taken your lunch?" He asked.

"Gosh! Its already one? Man! I'm so engross with these papers… I'll take mine later… what about you?" She asked.

"We're taking a break and Johnny has ordered a pizza for us!"

"Pizza? Wow! Now you are making me hungry!" Exclaimed Nicole as she could hear her stomach grumbling from inside.

"I know and that's the reason why I call you!"

"Oh I see… thank you so much for telling me that! Could you eat one piece on my behalf there?" Joked Nicole as she gave light giggles.

"Its my pleasure… by the way I've ordered you a-''

"Nic… someone is looking for you…" Interrupted Alice from outside.

"Who is it Alice?"

"Its a pizza boy…"

"Pizza boy? Hmm… Nick hold the line will ya?" Nicole pressed the mute button and walked towards the delivery boy.

"Are you Ms Nicole?"

"Yes…"

"Here is your pizza ma'am and could you please sign here-''

"But wait… Alice… did you order this?" Alice shrugged her shoulders. "I think you make a mistake I didn't order any pizza…"

"But someone did and told us to send it over to you… its has been paid anyway ma'am so could you please acknowledge here for me please?" Requested the delivery boy.

Nicole was reluctant at first to sign the paper and the receipt but Alice told her to accept it in order to make the job easier for the poor chap. She walked back to her room with the said pizza on one hand and quickly she grabbed the receiver.

"Nick? Nick? Are you still there?" Asked Nicole.

"Oh… ye…ah… what's up?" She could hear Nick munching from the other end of the line.

"I don't know… an angel is sending me a pizza…" Said Nicole.

"Oh thank you!"

"What?"

"So you do like the flavour? I specially order for an extra cheese for you-''

"You? You order this?" Exclaimed Nicole as she gaped in disbelief.

"Yeap… and that's what I wanted to tell you just now but guess they are fast huh? So do you like it?" Asked Nick again.

"Gosh… why are you doing this? I mean… yeah of course everyone would love to have free food but… you really shouldn't have to… you are making me feel so bad now…"

"I know you are going to skip lunch again today if I didn't order that for you… so now… take ten minutes off from your lunch time and enjoy the pizza… I got to go now… if I can make it home early tonight… I'll call you again at home okay?"

"Okay then… hey!"

"Huh?"

"Thanks!"

"Sure… bye!"

"Bye!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Hey Jimmy! Have you seen Nicole?" Shouted Ms Kate as she passed the main entrance of the building. He showed signs that indicated no. "Gosh! Where is this girl? Everyone is already here… hey Ross! Ross!" Ross stopped his steps and turned to see Ms Kate coming towards his direction.

"Hey Kate… what's wrong?" He asked.

"Have you seen Nicole? Everyone is already here and she's nowhere to be found…" Asked Ms Kate as she turned to Ross.

"Oh! She's at the back stage… trying to get the final preparation before the guests arrive…" He explained as he checked his list.

"Gosh… she's scaring me… could you do me a favour Ross? Can you please call her and tell her the guests are already here and we can start it now…" Whispered Ms Kate.

"Sure!" Ross left her and made his way to the small tent behind the stage.

"Hi Ms Kate!"

"Hi Mr Carter! Its really nice of you to come over today…"

"Its the grand opening afterall… of course I have to be here to witness the special event… so how's everything?"

"Doing well Mr Carter… everything is doing well…" She said in mixture of nervous and laughter.

"So where's our Publicist?" Asked Nick Carter who looked smart in his suit. He would prefer not to wear one if given a choice but Kevin has told him the night before to get himself a suit for the opening. Its the presentation thingy, he mumbled through the phone.

"She's making preparation before getting on stage…" Replied Ms Kate.

"I see… how does she fare so far?" Asked Nick again.

"She's been doing such a great job… I've never seen a girl as full charisma and enthusiastic as she is… and I'm sure she's going to hypnotise our sponsors with her speech…" Continued Ms Kate as she gave a proud smile.

Nick smiled triumphantly.

"Kate… we can start now…" Whispered Ross who came from behind.

"Alright then… please take a seat Mr Carter… we will start in a minute…"

All the while Nick hasn't got any chance to meet Nicole yet but he kept a lookout hoping to meet her somewhere among the crowd.

"Nick!" He heard the familiar voice calling his name. He turned and he saw this angel smiling at him. She looked so much different, and so much beautiful. "Hey… look I can't talk much to you right now but we'll meet after this huh?" Said Nicole as she touched his hands.

He was too speechless to say a thing except a nod from his head.

"… and I'm proud to present to you our club's Publicist, Ms Nicole Anne Carrie who will elaborate more about NCOC in her speech… please welcome Ms Nicole Anne Carrie…" A loud applause was given the moment she stepped on the stage. There were whisperings among themselves, stunned by the presence of a beautiful young lady on the stage carrying one of the high posts in the club.

"Thank you Ms Kate… first of all I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all our honourable guests and a special welcome to the founder of NCOC Mr. Nickolas Gene Carter for your willingness to spare some of your precious time to be here with us today in the official opening of Nick Carter Ocean Campaign…" A round of applause was given as Nick nodded his head from his seat. "Well… before we proceed on to the ribbon cutting ceremony which will be carried out by Mr Carter himself, let me briefly elaborate to you the main agenda of us setting up yet another ocean campaign. I'm sure… that ocean campaign is not something new or strange to you and in fact… I'm quite certain that you have come across a few other ocean campaigns being established by other major foundations. But our main concern is not what the other foundations have done in pertaining to their roles in preserving the ocean wild life, its all about NCOC. In NCOC, our task is to preserve and protect the sea creatures from the brink of extinction and exploitation. The first step in doing so is by getting each and everyone of us present today get in touch with the ocean life personally. What I meant by personally is not just by browsing through those brochures and pamphlets but mainly with your involvement in our future activities held up by our young team. We will be conducting a frequent visiting to neighbouring schools, giving talks and speech to convey these messages to the students. We will be organising a beach outings, Charity promotions as well as ocean carnival. Our main interest is to sow that passion of appreciating those exquisite creatures of the ocean in the hearts of our youngsters. We have to make them see and relate themselves to the importance of their roles in preserving these beautiful and exotic wild life. Of course our main interest also lies in the older group of people who will be able to assist us with their generous views, comments and suggestions so as how this ocean campaign would be better in the next future. Our generous sponsors are kind enough to give us the trust and the opportunity to be here today and we going to make sure that besides than putting a certain amount in the foundation or the daily subscription on newsletter, its worthwhile to see your money helping us to save these wonderful animals from undergoing a critical moments which we called it an extinction period. Today, we are going to join forces with our sponsors and who knows tomorrow we will all be joining hand in hand with the young generation and maybe too… we will be able to join forces with the entire world to save our little planet of the ocean." The crowd gave a loud applause for the great achievements by NCOC. It was not easy to get participation from a young group of people but again, with Nicole around, almost everything was possible.

"She's good huh?" Whispered Nick to Kevin.

"Oh yes she is… I wonder why didn't I get her to come over to JWR?" Whispered Kevin back.

"Because she's more interested in ocean rather than forest bro…" Kevin gave Nick a smirk as he continued to clap.

"Thank you but again… its not just a dream of mine or any of the staffs in NCOC… we are going to make it a possible effort provided that each and everyone of us presence today will do our part in preserving another form of nature beauty that lies beneath the ocean. Together we stay united, I'm sure the ocean can be protected… maybe not forever but at least we know we can protect it for a much longer time… so I ended my speech for this morning with the hope that you will now have a clearer picture on how we are going to carry this NCOC and how much we appreciate your supports in our future campaigns. If you need any enquiries on our activities and programmes, do feel free to see me and in fact our staffs standing at your right hand side will be more than obliged to help you with that so… thank you so much for bearing with me and now I will hand over this mic to the Managing Director of NCOC, Ms Kate Wilson." Nicole left a deep impression on the sponsors and guests who came that day. Both Nick and Kevin were impressed by her speech, needless to say she has managed to draw more polls for NCOC.

"Thank you Ms Nicole for the wonderful speech and… now let me present to you our founder for NCOC to come up to the stage to cut the ribbon. Please welcome Mr Nickolas Gene Carter…" The guests clapped their hands and stood up to see him cutting the blue ribbon on the stage with Nicole handed over a pair of scissors to him. A perfect picture of them standing next to each other caused a wild whisperings among the guests.

The photographers never fail to snap shots on Nicole and Nick during the entire event, either they were on the stage, off the stage and even after the ceremony. They were seen talking, chatting and laughing with each other showing how loving they were. But the question was, who's Nicole Anne Carrie? Could she be the next someone special in Nick Carter's life besides than Amanda Willa Ford?

"We're best friends!" Nick exclaimed when asked about Nicole.

"Oh! He's my best friend!" Exclaimed Nicole when one of them asked about her relationship with the popstar.

At the end of the day, they shrugged their shoulders. Judging from their intimacy, they looked too good to be just best friends but then again, nothing was certain and that certainty was what they are going to dig out from the two of them.

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