One Heartbeat - Chapter One

Ferryn Phillips glanced in the mirror one more time before taking a deep breath and wiping her sweaty hands on her jeans. Tucking her hair behind her ear by nervous habit, she tried to stand tall. She'd done this hundreds of times. Why tonight was any different, she had no idea. Glancing at her watch, the time was confirmed by a knock on the door. Before she could open it, a familiar face popped in.

"Ferryn, you're on in ten!" Dan smiled as he made his way towards her. "Don't be nervous. You're a pro at this!"

Ferryn gave him a weak smile and nodded. "I know this. It's just a habit. I'm just going through the motions."

"You'll do great tonight. I wouldn't have you fly all the way out to LA if there weren't going to be some pretty important people here tonight. This could really help your career" he stated.

"Thanks, Dan. For everything. I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you." She said as she leaned in and hugged him.

"Your talent stands alone. Go get em'."

Ferryn grabbed her guitar and strapped it over her shoulder. The lights were always too bright, hot and mind numbing. She felt lost on stage. She hated being in the spotlight. Her work was only in the music. The words. The melodies. The feeling. Her voice was just something she had to do in order to give the gift. Public performances was what she disliked about being a song writer.

Tonight she was going to suck it up, put her fears behind her and give it her best. Open mic night at one of LA's well-known clubs was what she needed to get her songs heard. Music producers liked to sniff around clubs like these and Dan Matthews had given her the opening spot. Her only fear was letting him down and making herself look like an ass.

Before she knew it, he was on stage introducing her and she was taking a seat on the stool in front of the microphone.

"It is my pleasure to introduce to you, a song writer all the way from Greenville, North Carolina. Ferryn Phillips!"

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Tom Kaulitz took a seat in the black leather booth that were positioned around the small club. His attention snapped to the stage as the audience gave the opening performer a welcoming of applause. His head turned when he felt a hand slap his back in a friendly gesture. "Tom, it's been forever! How are you?" Dan asked as he slid in beside Tom.

"I've been good. Busy but good. Loving the life as a producer these days." He said as he grinned.

Dan nodded towards the stage. "You need to pay attention to this girl. I swear, I see big things for her. Her talent is endless."

"That's why I came here. I need a change of pace. New music, new lyrics, new talent." Tom spoke as he listened intently.

"I hate to cut this short but I have to make sure the next songwriter is ready backstage. Good to see you, Tom!" Dan shook his hand as he stood.

"Nice to see you too, Dan". Tom took in the girl on stage as she began to strum her guitar effortlessly and sing.

"I may seem strong but it's easy to break me. I've made my share of mistakes. I'm stubborn and I've been know to make life crazy but all you have to do is hold me..."

Tom listened intently as he took in the raw words and acoustic sounds of Ferryn's song. She looked like she was somewhere else. Lost in the world of music and lyrics. He smiled at that. She looked genuine and he hadn't spoken a word to the girl. He noted her look of comfort as he his eyes grazed around her body. Jeans that stopped low on her hips and the blue T-shirt that made her green eyes vivid. He noted black flip flops adorned her feet. Her light brown hair flowed around her shoulders as they moved with the rhythm. She moved her small fingers back and forth against the acoustic guitar. His thoughts were interrupted as her voice grew louder. She came in for what he could only assume as the ending to her song.

"I don't want to be hard or even proud. I don't need you to fix me. I don't need to be found. I just need to be loved..."

Her voice came to a whisper as the song faded out and the small audience erupted in applause. Tom couldn't help himself as he followed suit. Who was this girl? Why was he drawn to her?

Ferryn walked off the stage and back into the dressing room to retrieve a bottle of water. She took a long drink followed by three deep breaths. Calming her racing heart, she set her guitar down and walked out the door.

"Time for mingling." She said to herself as she put on a smile. Dan caught her by the arm and hugged her close to his side. "You had them eating out of your palm tonight! The song was amazing!"

She turned to him and grinned. "You're going to make my ego grow too big for the room if you keep that up, Dan!"

"You need more faith in yourself. You have talent I could only dream of having!"

"I just want to be a song writer. I want someone to be inspired by them and sing them. I get the feelings that come out of it. They get to sing it and we both get paid. In the end, every one is happy."

"You are priceless. Come on. Let's go mingle. I already have four producers out there that would love to speak with you. Oh, Tom Kaulitz is here. I was raving about you. Look out for him!" He said as he ushered her out by the bar.

Ferryn stopped mid step and turned to Dan. "Tom Kaulitz?" she spoke in an annoyed whisper. "I'm not down with the emo-pop shit. Sorry. I mean I listened to Tokio Hotel but the thought of working with him seems like it'd be a step backwards. Not to mention he makes himself out to be one of the biggest manwhores."

Dan chucked. "I don't know what happens between his sheets but I do know he is a very talented man, Ferryn. It might do you some good!"

"I'm pretty sure I'd rather eat dirt than to slut myself up to get someone to buy my demos. Sorry to disappoint you."

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Tom watched as Ferryn walked from table to table, greeting the stuffy music producers. She would smile and reach her hand out to shake theirs, all the while listening intently and remaining professional. Every once and a while they'd say something and she'd throw her head back and laugh. A carefree laughter that went right to his heart.

He caught her catch a quick glimpse of him out the corner of her eye and turn her head quickly back to her company. He'd love a chance to speak with her and find out exactly who this Ferryn Phillips was.

Coming out of his brief reverie, he waved the waitress over and ordered himself a drink. When she came back, her overly flirtatious chest heaved in his face as she placed the drink in front of him before turning to leave. She swayed her hips as his eyes followed her ass.

Ferryn took this moment to give Tom Kaulitz a full glance. Rolling her eyes and scoffing in disgust, she averted her eyes away from him and excused herself from her company. He was the playboy he made himself out to be. Checking out the ass of a young waitress. Nice. Real professional.

After thanking Dan for his generosity for the evening, Ferryn retrieved her guitar and purse and made her way towards the door. As she was about to step out into the cool evening air, she felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning around, she was faced with none other than Tom Kaulitz himself.

"Ferryn?" He asked quietly. "I'm Tom Kaulitz. I was hoping I could have a chance to talk to you for a moment."

"I was actually on my way out. My flight leaves really early in the morning."

Tom's face dropped. "Another time?" He asked. He found himself confused by her icy tone.

"Sure." She replied breezily and walked out the door. Tom stood dumbfounded as he watched her leave. Dan only watched from the bar. Walking over to Tom, he nodded towards the door.

"She's touchy, Tom. Don't take it personally."

"How could I not? She looked at me as if I was the last thing she wanted to see."

"She has her reasons. Don't ask me what they are though. She can be stubborn. If you really want to talk to her, she's at the Westin down the street."

Tom sighed to himself. Was she even worth it? "Thanks, man. I owe you one."

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Ferryn put the plastic key card into the door and waited for the light to turn green. She opened the door and walked into her room. She carefully dropped her guitar and purse on the desk by the window.

Kicking off her flip-flops, she walked over to her suitcase and grabbed a pair of shorts and a tank top. Comfort was the key. After she changed, she pulled her light brown hair into a quick ponytail, not caring that hair was escaping every which way. She grabbed her book from the beside stand and lay back on the hotels heavenly bed before she began to read. The panoramic windows gave her a breathtaking view of LA at night, adding to her relaxation of a hectic week.

Her silence was interrupted as someone knocked on her door.

"Who in the hell?" she cursed as she padded to the door. The face that greeted her on the other side of the door was the last one she thought she'd see. Blinking to make sure she was seeing straight, Ferryn confirmed that she was staring into the eyes of none other than Tom Kaulitz.

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Suddenly feeling naked, she covered herself as nonchalantly as possible. "Shit, where is my bra when she need it?" Her tank top was nearly see through or so it felt.

"Can I help you?" She asked coldly.

He looked around nervously. "I was hoping I could talk with you about your music for a second."

"Now? What on earth couldn't wait until the next time I come to LA?" She spat.

"Um, did I miss something or do you just strongly dislike me?" Tom asked confused.

"Well you see, I'm not real big on producing or song writing with playboys. Oh, and before you even think about it, I don't sleep with people to get ahead in life so if that's what you came here for, you're wasting your time."

Tom stood with wide eyes looking nothing but confused. "Listen, honey, I don't sleep with anyone to get further with this business. That just isn't my style. I try to keep my personal life and professional life separate and I get really annoyed by rumors. You should probably take the time to actually get to know me before you start believing whatever bullshit it is you've read."

Ferryn rolled her eyes before she stepped back to allow him entry to her hotel room. "Come in." He brushed past her and stood awkwardly in the middle of the large room looking out the window. "You can have a seat." She said motioning to the couch as he sat down. "Would you like something to drink?"

He shook his head. "No, thank you." Ferryn nodded and went to her suitcase to grab the most covering shirt she could find. Thankfully she'd packed a hoodie for her brief trip and pulled it over her head as quickly as possible. Once situated, she took a seat in the desk chair across from him. Distance. She needed that.

He cleared his throat and began to talk. "Your performance was great tonight. I loved the song."

Ferryn smiled tightly. "Thanks." She shrugged.

Tom nodded and looked around the room. "You really don't like me do you?" He asked.

"Hmm. From what I've read, seen and heard? Not so much."

"Ouch." Tom said as he hung his head. "Don't you know half that shit you read is bull?"

"It very well could be but right now I'm not convinced."

"I wasn't aware I was here for an interview. I came here to praise your song and your talent but if you already have a negative opinion about me, I may as well see my way out." He said as he stood and began towards the door.

She could tell he was offended and suddenly felt bad. "Why am I being such a bitch in the first place?" She asked herself. "Tom, wait. I'm- I, um- I'm sorry. Dan has said nothing but nice things about your producing and yes, I've read about a trillion things about you I didn't care for but you're right. I have no reason to prejudge you based on gossip."

He shook his head. "Are you going to be nice to me now?"

Ferryn couldn't help but give a half smile. "I was thinking about it."

Tom took his turn in doing the same. "Good. I'm a pretty nice guy, Ferryn."

"We'll see." She laughed quietly.

Tom smiled. "So how long have you been writing?"

"Since I was like, 10." Ferryn answered.

Tom's eyes opened wide. "That long? Wow."

"I love words and emotions. They just kind of spill out of me. And music, well that speaks for itself. It's in my blood. To simply say 'I love it' sounds too cliche." She answered truthfully.

Tom nodded in awe. "I noticed you were in your own little world up there tonight. You looked at peace."

"I don't think I'm ever at peace on stage. I hate it. I'm no where near the talent of a singer. Too bad it's the only way to get my songs heard."

"You have a great voice, Ferryn." He said quietly.

Ferryn looked around nervously wondering how to take such a compliment. She hated her voice. "Thank you, Tom." She cleared her throat. "So you're a big producer these days, huh?" She asked.

"I wouldn't say big. I enjoy being behind the scenes. I feel comfortable there."

"Mmmhmm, I know the feeling."

Silence filled the room before the sounds of Tom's cell phone buzzing against his leg halted him from further conversation. "Excuse me for a moment please." Tom stood and walked to the door.

Ferryn nodded and took the opportunity to step outside the glass doors to the balcony. She glanced out at the gorgeous night sky of Los Angeles. She loved her visits here. North Carolina had some breathtaking views and would always be considered her home but LA owned a piece of her heart. So many firsts had taken place here for her, both good and bad. She breathed in deep as she tipped her head back and closed her eyes, letting the breeze gently brush over her face.

She jumped when she felt a hand gently graze her shoulder. "Sorry! I didn't mean to be to scare you." He replied.

"Don't worry about it." Ferryn shrugged it off.

"Wow, this view is killer."

"Mmm, I love it. Something about cities and cool night air takes me away. It's one of my many serenities."

"I have to agree with you once again." He said as he stood beside her, mimicking her stance.

"So tell me about Ferryn Phillips"

"What do you want to know, Tom Kaulitz?" She mocked him.

"Where did you grow up? How did you become a song writer? What do you like? What do you not like?"

"Are you writing a biography on me or something?"

"Not this week." Tom laughed. "I'd just like to know more about you."

"Why? I'm a little thrown off here." Ferryn turned towards him.

"Do you always dodge this many questions? Haven't you ever made a friend before?"

"Friends? What in the hell are they? I've always wanted one!" She gushed sarcastically.

Tom couldn't help but laugh as he shook his head. "Oh Ferryn Phillips, you're a professional smart ass at heart, aren't you?"

Laughing fully now, Ferryn turned and walked back into her spacious hotel room. "You know it, Tom." She said before plopping down on her bed, sitting cross-legged.

He followed her, taking a seat in the lounge chair beside her. "I'm waiting." He sighed.

Ferryn rolled her eyes. "If I tell you my life story, what's in it for me?" She questioned.

Tom waggled his eyebrows. "What would you like?"

His answer was in the form of one of the decorative pillows from Ferryn's bed smacking him in his face. "You're an ass."

"Ferryn, I was joking. You need to lighten up or we're never going to be able to work together."

"I don't remember agreeing to working with you Mr. Kaulitz nor to I remember being asked."

"The nights not over." He replied.

They were interrupted as the words to Bayside's Duality blared from Ferryn's cell phone lying on the bedside stand. Quickly, she snatched it up and answered a cheerful, "Hi baby!" She stepped into the bathroom and closed the door.

Tom stood there annoyed. "Baby?" Of course she had a boyfriend or hell maybe even a husband. He didn't remember Dan mentioning anything to him but that didn't mean anything. Regardless, he had no right. This was a business meeting of sorts but Tom couldn't help but to be drawn to her. She was like some kind of addictive mystery. She was her own style of gorgeous in her own simplicity. She was a true smart ass. He could almost bet that he'd like her even more if she shared more of herself with him. His first goal was to make her see he wasn't such a playboy as she'd labeled him.

He wanted to learn about her. Her secret stories that poured out into her songs. He wanted to hear more of them. Who the hell was that Ferryn Phillips that kept his eyes glued like a moth to a flame on stage just hours earlier?

Not but three minuets later, Ferryn exited the bathroom to see Tom sitting on her bed against the headboard.

"What do you think you're doing, Mr. Kaulitz?" Ferryn asked in her best annoyed voice.

"I think Ferryn Phillips reads cheesy romance novels." Tom declared as he laughed.

Ferryn's cheeks turned a lovely shade of pink as she saw what Tom had in his hands. "Oh my God, Tom, put that down!" She gasped trying to reach for it. He turned quickly, getting away from her reaching arms.

Tom cleared his throat and read out loud. "Ahemm.. 'He repositioned her legs and lay between them. Her arms went around his neck in welcome. When he entered her, her body closed around him like the petals of some erotic flower'"

Ferryn paused. She was positioned on her knees, now realizing she had ended up between Tom's out stretched legs. Giving up her fight to retrieve the book, she began holding her head in her hands from embarrassment. "You're a sick man, Kaulitz".

"I'm the sick one? You have a dirty book!" He laughed.

"There's nothing wrong with a woman enjoying a little romance."

"Not getting any, sweetheart?" Tom asked in all seriousness.

Ferryn did take that opportunity to slap him hard on the shoulder, only to lose her balance and fall into his lap. She received a painful grunt from him as her elbow landed right on the most priceless part of his anatomy.

"Serves you right." She laughed as she pulled herself off of him, her hair going in every direction. "What are you doing on my bed, man-I-just-met?"

"I got bored." He replied trying to nonchalantly heal his aching body. "Let's watch a movie."

"A movie? What the heck, Tom. I just met you."

"And?" He grabbed the remote from beside her. "Movies are the best way for two people to become friends." He winked as he turned on the TV.

She looked at him confused. "Music. I thought you were here to discuss music."

"I tried. You had a stick up your ass. I'll have to warm you up with a chick flick. Maybe there will be some sex in it." He said as he waggled his eye brows.

"Kaulitz, get your mind out of the gutter! If you keep speaking about sex, that playboy roll is going to stick in my head for good." She warned.

"Whatever. You need to shush. The movie is starting."

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Ferryn looked over at the man sitting on her bed. "How in hell did I end up with on of the most talented producers in my hotel room? And why does he have to be so damn charming?" She honestly wasn't a hundred percent sure why he'd even come to her room tonight. "Had Dan put him up to this? Had he mentioned something to Tom about me?" Her mind was going a mile a minuet and it was all she could do not to stare at him. He remained upright against the head board.and had undone few of the buttons of his white shirt. "Shit. His skin looks so... touchable. Today was not the best day to be reading romance novels." The scene she'd read while alone earlier was hotter than the one he'd chosen to read in the moment of mocking one of her guilty pleasures.

One arm was propped up over his head making him look relaxed as his other was on the bed between them, his fingers curled into a loose fist. His legs were laying out comfortably in front of him, his slightly baggy jeans set low on his hips. His shoes had been kicked off before she'd even known he'd done it. He looked damned near sexy.

Ferryn could feel the heat of him even though the bed was large enough to fit five people. She could smell him too. Something she'd tried to avoid since she opened the door that night.

He caught her gazing over at him and gave her a flirtatious smirk. "Like what you see?" He asked.

She laughed and rolled her eyes. "Oh, yes. I just can't get enough of you."

Tom chuckled and wrapped his arm around her shoulders, bringing her close. "I'm honestly a nice guy if you'd just get to know me."

Ferryn looked into his eyes. They were a gorgeous chocolate brown. Why wasn't she pulling away? The scent of him so close to her was crumbling her resistance as every second passed. She knew she shouldn't be doing this. Her world was complicated enough without the likes of Tom Kaulitz making it any more dramatic.

"I might try." She replied, smiling a little bit.

"Good. I think we could be friends, Ferryn. Something about you struck me tonight. Whether it's your passion for music or your talented lyrics or maybe it's that serious tough girl act you pull, I see something in you. Something special."

Ferryn blinked, reigning herself in for a moment. Still tucked under his arm, she looked into his eyes and couldn't find the words to say.

She didn't like him. He was a playboy. She should have slapped him by now and told him to get off of her but why did the closeness and the heat of him make her feel safe? Was that even possible from someone you'd known for less then five hours?

"Tom, you shouldn't say things like that. Please."

"Sometimes you can't help it, Ferryn."

"I really should be getting to bed. My flight leaves early tomorrow afternoon." She spoke softly, not meeting his eyes.

"So sleep. I don't snore."

"Tom, you are not sleeping in my bed and I am not sleeping with you."

"I never said a word about sleeping with you like that. Believe it or not, two people can share a bed and not be lovers. There are several types of intimacy." He scooted down the bed. His arm still wrapped around her shoulders took her with him. Carefully, he reached below them to pull the covers up over them, tucking her to his side. "See? No harm in holding a friend."

Ferryn couldn't pull away. Why was her heart pounding so hard if felt like it was going to jump out of her chest but still at the same time, she felt so comfortable.

"How do I know you're not going to kill me in my sleep?"

Tom laughed loudly. "If I was going to kill you, I'd have done it by now."

"But how do I know you're not going to take advantage of me when I'm sleeping?" She said as she tucked the covers around her as tightly as she could.

"No offense, Ferryn, but I prefer the woman I make love with to be fully conscious. It's just not as fun for me."

She gasped. "Did he just say make love? Didn't most men use phrases like 'fuck' or 'screw?' Who was this man? Oh right. It was Tom Kaulitz. Hollywood's biggest playboy. But if he was a playboy, why is he holding me so closely and making me feel protected and cherished?" Her confusion began to rise and her resistance slowly crumbled.

"Okay, Tom." Ferryn whispered reaching over and flipping off the TV.

"Okay what, Ferryn?" He asked. He looked down into her emerald colored eyes, only to find them already closed.

"Just 'Okay'. Goodnight, friend."

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Ferryn was awoken by the bright light shining through the windows of her hotel room. Groaning, she tried to roll over only to realize a masculine arm was laying tightly across her middle. She instantly froze, trying to search the deep crevices of her brain. "Who the hell is in my bed?" She was never one for one night stands. She glanced down and realized she was fully clothed. "Thank God. Still, who's in my bed?" She tried to remember last night as best as possible. Her answer was delivered shortly as her bedmate's thickly accented morning voice met her ears.

"Morning, Ferryn." Tom called out, running a hand up and down her arm. Ferryn turned towards him glaring.

"Hi." She said coldly.

"Aw, not a morning person?" He asked.

"I have to shower and get ready to leave. My flight leaves soon." She said as she exited the bed and began to gather her things together from around the hotel room.

"Alright. Mind if I use the little boys room real quick?"

Ferryn waved her hand in the general direction of the bathroom. "Help yourself."

While Tom was in the bathroom, she took the time to get out the clothes she'd need for the day and worked quickly on packing her stuff. When Tom exited the bathroom, she couldn't help but notice how rumpled and adorable he looked. She hadn't even wanted the man in her hotel room last night, much less her bed but she couldn't help but notice how well she'd slept in his embrace. Still, one night couldn't dictate one's personality or one's motives.

Tom walked out of the bathroom and took the opportunity to stroll over by the window and glance down at a bustling LA. Putting his hands over his head, he leaned back and stretched, his shirt riding up just a bit and showing the smallest peak of his lower abdomen. He looked over at Ferryn to see turning her head quickly, trying to cover up her spying as she busied herself in folding her clothes and placing them neatly into her suitcase.

He left the window and took a seat beside her. "Were you checking me out?" He asked with a grin.

"Psshht, you wish, Kaulitz!" She replied annoyed.

"Back on your broomstick, I see. Do you mind if I make some coffee?"

Ferryn scoffed at his rude comment but nodded. "There's a pot with all the stuff you need over on the sink."

"Thank you. See, it doesn't hurt to be polite." He said as he sent a wink in her direction.

She rolled her eyes before she began pacing the room, searching for things she had missed. "I'm always polite. You must be on something."

Tom laughed loudly. "Oh yes, you're just as sweet as they come. You didn't put me down a handful times last night. Not to mention elbow me in the most prized region of the body."

Ferryn tried hard not to but failed miserably as she laughed. "Tom Kaulitz has a damaged ego and penis! What will he do next? Critics say his social life as a playboy is over."

"Ok lady, just so you know, it'd still work perfectly fine. And just so you know, that hurt. That's it. We're not friends anymore." He stated firmly.

She took that opportunity to fall dramatically on the bed. "Whatever will I do?"

Tom stood in front of her, coffee cup in hand waiting for it to cool before he shook his head. "You, Ferryn Phillips, are too much. And you'd miss me, don't lie."

Ferryn sat up and tried not to meet his eyes but they were burning into hers. Whatever she was feeling, she knew she wasn't going to analyze it here and now.

"I really need to shower, Tom. I have to get ready to catch my flight home."

"I can take a hint. Go shower. I can let myself out." He said.

Ferryn nodded and grabbed her clothes and walked to the bathroom. She grinned over her shoulder. "Bye, Tom."

The smiled he returned went straight to her heart. "Bye, Ferryn. I don't suppose you'd give me your phone number for future music type discussions would you?"

"If you think of something you need me for, I'm sure you know the right people to get in contact with me."

He nodded. "Damn, this woman is impossible." He heard the bathroom door click shut and took this time to down the rest of his coffee before going beside the bed to collect his shoes.

He gathered himself together and began to tie his shoes when he heard her cell phone blare loudly. Hesitating, he picked it up and glanced at the screen. When the word Mom blinked across it. He pondered on if he should get Ferryn himself or just let the voicemail get it. Deciding on the wiser choice, he left the phone alone and finished tying his shoes. The phone stopped ringing and he stood and walked toward the door. Tom was once again greeted with the loud music of Bayside as he turned around. The screen once again confirmed that it was her mother and started to wonder if their was some type of reason for her constant calls. Perhaps a family emergency?

Picking up the phone, Tom walked to the bathroom door and knocked. He could hear the sounds of the water hitting the tiled floor of the bathtub. When Ferryn didn't respond, he gently turned the knob on the door surprised to find it unlocked. He stepped halfway in and called her name.

"Ferryn?" He called out holding her constantly ringing phone in his hand. No response. He stepped in a little further, trying to look anywhere but towards the shower. Tom could already see the steam coming out of her adorable ears once she discovered he was in her bathroom.

A little louder he called out to her. "Ferryn! Your cells been going off like crazy! It's your Mom."

"Tom?!" She shrieked. He heard a thump of what he only assumed to be Ferryn losing her balance and falling. "What in the hell are you- Ouch! Son of a bitch." She yelped.

Tom bolted forward keeping a hand over his eyes. She was livid but he didn't care. She was obviously hurt and in pain. He tossed her cell onto the marble countertop and took the three steps towards the shower. "Ferryn, are you okay?"

She tried to pick herself up from the slippery tub but she felt back down. "No! My ankle is fucked up!" She whimpered.

"Will you let me help you please?" He begged. "Tell me what I can do?"

"Are you kidding me? I'm sitting here naked with a man in my bathroom I met less than twenty-four hours ago. Get the hell out!" She cried.

"Ferryn, stop being a brat. If you're hurt, let me help you. I won't look I swear!" He pleaded.

He grabbed the towel she'd set out by the sink and walked back to the shower. "I'm going to open the curtain now. Is that okay?"

"Let me at least try and stand again before you see me like this." She said as she grabbed the side of the tub and shifted her weight to her upper arms and came down on her opposite foot. "Shit, Tom, it hurts." She whimpered.

"Are you ready for me to help you? I'm going to open the curtain with my eyes closed, give you your towel and help you get out so we can check out your ankle, okay?" He asked.

A sound escaped her lips with a mixture of pain and annoyance before she finally replied. "Okay."

Tom opened the towel wide and slid the shower curtain back, waiting for Ferryn to grab it and wrap it around herself. He carefully reached over and turned off the hot spray of water that was still coming down on her and himself.

Keeping a hand over his eyes like a sun visor, he cautiously looked at her. "You covered?"

"Yes. You can open your eyes." She said as she tucked the towel around her so it wouldn't fall off.

He looked down at her to see her face contorted in pain and as she fought back tears. He leaned into the shower and placed one hand on the small of her back and the other underneath her knees. "Put your arms around my neck."

He carefully lifted her out of the shower and brought her out into the room and sat her on he bed. "Okay, now what hurts?" He asked.

"My ankle. I twisted it when I fell!" He gently lifted her right foot in his hand to inspect it more thoroughly. It was turning a lovely shad of purple already.

"Let me get you some ice. I'll be right back." He spoke hurriedly as he grabbed the ice bucket and took off for the door. Less than two minuets later, he returned with a tub of ice and began placing the cold chips in the complementary plastic bag the hotel provided.

Once it was filled, he placed it on Ferryn's swollen foot. "Shit, Ferryn! Your leg is bleeding!" He gasped.

"Ugh, I was shaving and the razor flew from my hands when you walked in."

He ran into the bathroom and grabbed some toilet paper before coming back to her aid.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I was tying my shoes and your mom called twice in a row. I thought it might be important."

"My mother is a worry wart but I can't be mad." She said as she self-consciously began trying to cover up her towel clad body.

Tom went to the closet and retrieved an extra blanket that were usually in hotels and placed it around Ferryn's shoulders when he suspected her nervousness. Tipping her chin up to meet his eyes, he looked at her in all seriousness. "I swear I didn't look." He whispered.

She nodded, not knowing what to say. She still knew next to nothing about him, nor was she sure about how she felt toward him but being a bitch right now was the last thing on Ferryn's mind. Sure it was his fault she was in this position but he was taking care of her with nothing but kindness. She couldn't find it in her heart to fault him.

"I have to hurry up. I'm going to miss my flight." She said as she tried to stand from the bed. Once her feet hit the floor and her body weight shifted, she toppled forward only to land in Tom's arms. "Easy there. Why don't you sit down. I'll bring your clothes to you."

He came back from the bathroom holding what he'd guessed were her clothes she'd placed on the counter of the bathroom. He handed them to her and turned his back. "I promise, once again, that I won't look."

Ferryn laughed as she attempted to dry and dress herself. Even though he had his back turned, she still felt odd changing with a man in the room.

"Done."

He turned around carefully to see she had indeed managed to get herself dressed. "What time is your flight?" He asked glancing at his watch.

"12:15. Could you help me stand please?" She asked. "I have to finish getting ready."

He nodded and was in front of her within seconds as his hands came out to help her. Gently he lifted her as she took the time to catch her balance. "Are you sure it's not broken, Ferryn? I could take you to the ER."

"Don't be silly, Tom. It's probably just sprained if anything. I'll tough it out. Thanks for the ice." She said as she began hobbling around the room.

"Would you like me to drive you to the airport? It'd save you time." He offered.

"I was just going to call a cab. Really, it's fine." Ferryn spoke as she bumped into her suitcase toppling forward once again. Quickly she caught herself but Tom was in hot pursuit behind her, helping her remain vertical.

"Let me help you get your stuff together and I'll drop you off. It's the least I can do. I got you into this mess."

She sighed and thought for a moment before giving in. It would be easier than catching a taxi and having to slowly haul her luggage into it. "Okay."

"Okay good. Now tell me what I can do." He asked.

"Nothing really. I'm going to attempt to dry my hair real quick and make my face look somewhat less frightening before I step into the land of the beautiful."

Tom snickered a bit. How could he tell her she looked amazing the way she was? Her hair was wet and going in every direction from her attempting to towel dry it. Her green eyes still stood out with a vivid clearness. Her face was a pale perfection.

"You worry way too much, sweetheart."

Ten minuets later, Ferryn appeared from the bathroom looking adorable. Dressed in black yoga pants and a tight pink T-shirt with the word Greenville printed across the front, she looked as though she had planned this outfit solely based on comfort. Her now dried and touchable looking hair had been pulled into a high pony tail and her feet looked like they had on the same black flip flips from last night. He also recognized one of her toes sparkling with a small toe ring. The simple but angelic features of her face had been lightly brushed with make up and as she breezed by him, he caught the faintest scent of a spicy perfume.

Ferryn grabbed her purse from beside the bed and placed her cell phone in it. "Did you call your mom back?" He asked.

"Yes. Like I said, she worries. It's been a while since I've spoken to her. She wanted to make sure I was coming home this evening."

"I just thought something was wrong." He said sheepishly.

"It's fine, Tom. Really. My ankle has stopped hurting already. We can leave whenever your ready."

"Just waiting on you Ferryn. I have your suitcase. Lead the way."

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

Fifteen minutes later, Ferryn sat in the passenger seat of Tom's expensive car as they sped down the highway towards the airport.

"So back home. To Greenville right?" He asked.

"Yeah. I miss it already and I've only been here for 3 days." She laughed.

Tom saw a new side to Ferryn this morning. He knew her guard had been let down a little by her shower indecent but little by little, he started to see small parts of her personality slip up from the façade she tried to uphold. He knew he was drawn to her, weather in the fashion of a musician or just a person. He knew next to nothing about her but that still didn't stop the flirtatious notions that kept circling around in his mind.

"Do you come to LA a lot?" He questioned.

"It honestly depends. I haven't been out here for about six months before this."

He nodded as he turned up the radio a little tapping his fingers to the beat. He noted Ferryn taking in the sites as she looked out the window. He could hear her humming softly along with the tune so Tom reached forward to turn up the volume a little more.

"You like this song?" He questioned. Turning her eyes towards him, she gave him a bright smile. "I love it! The piano melody does something to me. I want to absorb it into myself."

He nodded in agreement. "I feel you there. Did you want to stop somewhere and get something for breakfast?"

"No, thanks. I'll grab something real quick before I board."

"Okay. Sounds good." Tom said before chatter was muted in the car. The only sounds were coming from this radio in a soft whisper. Not long after, Tom was pulling up to LAX and hesitant to let Ferryn go. He still had so much to learn about his new friend.

"Here you go, Ferryn. Want me to come in with you?" He asked.

"No thanks, Tom. You've done enough for me by bringing me here."

"Don't mention it. I'm really sorry again about your ankle. You sure it's okay?"

She nodded and stuck her arm through her purse ready to grab the door handle. "It's fine. I know you were hoping to catch a peek. I know how you roll."

He scoffed. "Are you sure you need an airplane to fly back on? I'm sure that broomstick of yours is handy."

Ferryn laughed. He was trying to irritate her and she wasn't talking the bait. "I think I left it back at the hotel." She shot back.

"So I was thinking I'd love to work with you sometime in the future and if you'd agree, how would I get in contact with you?" He hinted hopefully.

"If it's meant to be, you'll find me."

He grabbed her hand and ran his thumb over the front of it. "Please, Ferryn?" He whispered as his dark eyes bore into hers. Her heart sank and she almost gave into him. She leaned forward and wrapped her arms around his neck, drinking in the scent of him. She tried to pull back but his arms held her against chest.

"Tom, I have to go." She spoke softly as she leaned back. He leaned down and placed a soft kiss on her forehead. She pulled away from his kiss as she leaned back and opened the door. "I'm sure it's not hard for a playboy to find my number." Ferryn winked as she retrieved her suitcase from the back seat and slammed the door shut. Tom rolled down the window and gave his his most flirtatious smile, sassed with all the cockiness she believed him to have.

"Ferryn!" He yelled. She leaned down to the opened window to hear him.

"Yes?" She asked coyly as she raised an eyebrow.

"I looked." He winked as he put the car into drive and slowly drove away.

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

Ferryn dragged her tired body into her loft. Airplane rides always did a number on her and right then, all she wanted to do was sleep. She checked her messages and rolled her eyes at the constant ramblings of her mother. She pressed erase and walked the spiral stairs to her bedroom. She pulled back the covers and climbed into the one thing she'd missed the most: her bed, her safe haven, her home. She fell effortlessly into the pillows and wrapped herself up. She closed her eyes and before a second thought crossed her mind, she was asleep.

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

Buzzing

"What the hell Is that? Make it stop!" Ferryn rolled over as her cell phone vibrated obnoxiously against her bedside stand. She rubbed a hand over her face before she she reached for the phone aimlessly and tried her best to sound alive and alert as she answered.

"Hello?" She asked, her voice thick with sleep.

"Hey. Did I wake you?" A deep voice asked.

"Mmm. Yes, you did but for you it's okay." She smiled.

"How are you, babe? I've missed you. Just wanted to make sure you got in safe."

Ferryn couldn't help but smile. "I'm okay. Just tired and on the verge of becoming nocturnal. I got in safely. The flight was long but I think the open mic night did some good. I've had several people with interest."

"Good and of course you do! You're amazing! How could they not love you?"

"Hunter, you're too much for my ego but it's always wonderful to hear your praises." Ferryn smiled.

She could feel the grin in his voice as he continued. "I'm your biggest fan. Don't forget it, babe. I'll let you get back to sleep. I just wanted to make sure you were back home where you belong. Call me if you need anything. Love you!".

"Thanks, Hunter. I'll be in touch soon, I promise. I love you too!" She said before she hung up.

She set her phone back on the night stand before she glanced at the clock beside her. Big red numbers displayed that it was 12:58. She realized that she was still exhausted and decided to take advantage of the free time she had. She rolled over and closed her eyes. Her even breathing led her back into a land of slumber.

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

His hands were everywhere. Touching, caressing, making her want him even more. He trailed kisses down her neck until he was met with her collar bone. Dragging his caresses back up, he finally met her mouth one more time before pulling back. He looked deeply in her eyes as he spoke in all sincerity as well as desire. "I want you so bad. Please."

With a nod of assurance, she ran her hands down his back. He began to kiss her again, stirring her into a heated whirlwind. When he came back up this time, he looked to her for any sign of regret before he steadied himself above her.

He groaned out in pleasure as he entered her. His movements were sure as he unhurriedly brought them to rapture. As they cried out together, he leaned down and spread kisses across her face. He moved to her cheeks, her forehead and finally her lips in a gesture of love. Sighing, he slid off of her before he brought her close to his side.

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

Ferryn came out of her hot sleep session breathing a little heavy. Rewinding her dream, she did a quick play back as her mind went a mile a minute. She hadn't just had a sex dream, had she? And had the star been "Tom." She whispered to herself.

Shit.

She pulled off the covers and glanced at her alarm. She decided it was early enough in the morning to be awake. She padded to the bathroom only a few steps away from her. "Yes, a long relaxing shower will do. Scratch that. A long cold shower will do." Why on earth was she having a sex dream about a man she loathed? Did she really hate him? He was gorgeous and his arms around her made Ferryn feel safe and secure. Wanted and desired. And then there was his scent.

She peeled off her T-shirt and inhaled deeply. Surely his scent would have vanished by now. She gasped as she was met with the faintest hint of his masculine cologne that still lingered on her clothes and suddenly he was everywhere. Their first encounter and his chiseled features. The dark color of his brown eyes. His smile and the sexy laugh he'd give her. The moment he knocked on her hotel room door and the way she hated him yet he still remain a gentleman. His calming caress. What it felt like to wake up in his arms and "Oh." Her thoughts had gotten away from her.

She dropped the shirt and peeled off the rest of her clothes. Ferryn turned on the tap as she stepped into the marble shower and closed the clear door. As she wet her hair, she tipped her head back and shook it, trying her best to will away the erotic and confusing thoughts of Tom Kaulitz.

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

Tom walked into his house and kicked his shoes off by the door. He felt in dire need of a shower and made his feet begin in that direction. He was almost there when he heard a familiar voice call out to him.

"Hey, assface! Thanks for calling me this morning. I though we were going to breakfast!

Tom smiled at his brother Bill. "Sorry. I ended up staying with a friend last night. Then I took her to the airport this morning."

"Oh a her, huh? Get some action, did you?"

Tom scoffed. "No, Bill. I didn't. Believe it or not, sex is not the only thing I think about! I'm capable of being a good friend to a women too!" He barked.

"Since when? What crawled up your ass? Rough night?"

"Bittersweet. I'll just leave it at that. I'm going to shower."

"You-know-who called while you were gone. I wonder why she didn't call your cell?"

"Probably because I hit 'ignore' each time. Whatever. I'm going to go shower then maybe mess around in the studio if you need me."

"No, that's okay. Go make music and I'll leave you alone with your PMS!"

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

Tom sat at the piano in his home studio. He let his fingers gently run over the ivory keys. He played a melody here and there before he rubbed a hand over his stressed out face. Emotions began to pour out in gentle waves. He grabbed the pen lying beside his notepad and got lost in the thoughts and emotions that poured out of him.

Comfort comes from the ticking clock. It lulls me to sleep tonight. If I break it maybe it can stop eternity from stealing all my time. I wait here with another little hole in my heart. I'm damaged even at my best and seem to be falling apart. I'm barely breathing with a heart that's barely beating. But through the pain there's always some healing and in your name I can finally find some meaning to this broken, beaten life of mine.

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

"Ferryn! I've missed you!" Jessi said as she hugged her best friend enthusiastically.

"Jessi! I've missed you too!" Ferryn said, hugging her back. They walked into their local Starbucks and placed their orders before they took a seat at a table in the corner.

"So spill it! How was LA?"

"It was good! I got several contacts!."

"As I knew you would. So give me dirt! Anything good happen?"

"What makes you think I have dirt?" Ferryn asked confused.

"Hmm. Could be your mother said she called you like ten times within five minutes and said you never answered. She then proceeded to call me and see if I'd heard anything."

"My mother is a worry wart. I was in the shower when she went on her calling spree. I had a little, uh... accident in the shower. I called her back later though."

"Accident, huh?" Jessi said waggling her eyebrows.

"Mind out of the gutter please!"

"What happened? I'm your best friend. I need details."

"I, um... someone showed up at mic night. I was kind of a bitch to him. I think Dan told him where I was staying because he showed up at my door later that night. He drove me to the airport this morning." Ferryn said, waiting for the immediate grilling she knew she'd get.

"Ferryn Layne, you had a one night stand?! Details now!"

"Okay first of all, I did not have a one night stand. I'd hope you know me better then that. Second, it was Tom Kaulitz."

"Tom Kaulitz? Where do I know that name?"

"He's a producer in LA. He was in a band. Tokio Hotel. All possible talent aside, he's one of Hollywood's biggest playboys or so they make him seem."

"They make him seem? Why do I feel there's more to this?"

"He was actually pretty nice. I almost feel bad for being such a bitch to him. Almost. I haven't quite made my mind up as to what I think of him yet."

"Do you have a way to contact him?"

"No. I refused to give him my number. I didn't want to be another notch on his bed post but as for musical purposes, Confucius say: If he wanted to get in touch with me, he could easily find a way."

"Do you want him to contact you, Ferryn? I sense there's more to that story also."

"Maybe if I wanted some pointless sex with a Hollywood socialite but since I'm not a whore, I'm good. I have way too many things to do. I don't have time for anything like that. I'm shooting three album covers within the next two months on top of writing and whatever else comes along. Pretty soon, I won't know my ass from a whole in the wall."

"Ferryn, not every guy is like your ex. You have to realize that. Some time or another, you're going to have to let go."

"I've let it go, Jessi. I really have. This is just my time to focus on me and my career. I have ambitions. I'm going to do what I can to see they go somewhere."

"I have no doubt. Just don't shut your heart out. You have so much to give."

"I know, I know. I'm just not looking into things too deeply. I have a life to live. I hate to cut this short but I have to get to the gym! It was great to see you though! And give my god-daughter a hug and kiss from Auntie Ferryn. I miss her!"

"I will and it was great to see you too! I feel like we never spend time together anymore. You're always on the move somewhere." Jessi said standing and embracing her friend in a quick hug of goodbye.

"You know how I am! Bye, Jessi!" Ferryn laughed before walking away.

Stepping out into the semi-busy streets of downtown Greenville, Ferryn stopped at the stoplight and was waiting for it to turn green when her cell phone rang. She snatched it out of her bag and held it to her ear as she answered. "Hello?"

"Ferryn Phillips?"

"This is she. Who's this?"

"This is Sam Light with Liquid Music. I think we met in LA the other night?"

"Yes, the name sounds familiar. What can I do for you, Sam?"

"I wondering if you'd be willing to lend your talent for a upcoming movie soundtrack. We have a deadline though so we'd need you day after tomorrow at the latest and you may be out here a while. Are you interested?"

"Of course I am! I'm honored. Name the time and place!"

"I'll email you a full itinerary along with your flight information. See you in two days!"

"Okay! Bye, Sam. Thank you!"

Ferryn hung up her phone and took a deep breath. Her career was about to take off. She could feel it. "LA, here I come." She whispered to herself, hoping she had what it takes.

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

Ferryn sat at the sound board in the small studio, fiddling with the knobs and trying to find the right beat. Since she arrived two days prior, she'd been hard at work on making the second track for what was suppose to be a huge up and coming movie soundtrack. She tried to keep her cool as she repeated to the singer in the sound booth to bring her pitch up about three notches. She rubbed soothing circles to her temples. Ferryn had been working non-stop from the second she stepped off the plane and into LA.

Sam had whisked her away and they'd been writing, producing and making music for the past 48 hours. It was today that started to get the worst of her.

"Ferryn, you know you can take a break." Sam told her from the chair across the room.

"I'm fine, Sam. We need to finish this."

"We will finish it. You haven't slept in forever. You need to rest. You won't be any good if you get sick."

Ferryn shook her head and laughed. "I don't get sick, Sam."

"Okay, if you say so. Be stubborn. Finish this track and take a break. Get something to drink at least. There's a vending machine down the hall."

"Whatever you say. Just let me finish this track."

Ferryn looked to the girl in the sound booth. "Mariel, could you please repeat the second verse one more time and give me a lighter 'ohhhh' sound at the end?"

Mariel nodded and Ferryn tweaked the sound board as she sang to bring it to the right pitch. "Much better! Thank you."

Mariel smiled and continued to read the verses off the handwritten page in front of her. Finally, they were rolling.

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

An hour and a half later, Ferryn sat on one of the couches in the studio sipping on a strawberry Gatorade and munching on a small bag of pretzels. She had to admit that Sam was right, it felt good to eat a little something. Ferryn had the tendency to work until she was exhausted. She was hard headed as all get out.

"You have a song that I'd love to start with next." Sam said from his seat in the corner.

"Great! Who's going to be singing it?" Ferryn asked while sipping her drink.

"I'd like Mariel to do it but I want your voice to be in the background for most of the track."

Ferryn almost choked on her drink and begin to cough profusely. "Me? Are you kidding me, Sam? I don't sing. No."

"Ferryn, your voice would mix perfectly with Mariel's. I know you can do this. Stop worrying so much. It will take an hour tops to get your voice in it. I even have another producer coming in here to help us get it just right. But I have to get going. I think you can handle whatever glitches you'll run into while I'm gone. I'll be back." Sam said as he walked toward the door to leave.

Ferryn sat there dumbfounded. She placed the lid on her drink and dusted off her salty hands on her jeans. She stood up and stretched. Alone in the studio! She made her way over to the leather chair in front of the computer and brought up the tracks she needed to edit and began working.

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

He watched her from the window of the door, noticing her sense of calmness first and foremost. Ferryn tapped her hand on her lap as she sang along to whatever song she was working on. She twisted the knobs and pushed buttons randomly to make it sound just right. Her hair shook gently as she moved around with ease. Every once in a while, she'd lean her head back and close her eyes. He could see her shoulders move with a sigh and watched as she'd rub the bridge of her nose in what could only be an act of exhaustion. He'd only seen her four days prior. He thought his chances were slim to see her again yet there she sat in all her talented, beautiful glory before him. His heart skipped a small beat, for what reason, he didn't know.

He decided he'd been staring for too long and took that moment to enter the studio. He opened the door slowly and he walked softly into the room. He stood there for a moment and watched her move around and sing along with the music before clearing his throat.

"Well if it isn't Ferryn Phillips." He said with a smile.

Ferryn swung around in her chair startled by the familiar voice she'd just heard. "Tom!" She gasped.

"In the flesh." He said walked towards her. "Should I hug her?" He decided against it. "How are you?" He asked cautiously.

"I'm fine. Sam sent you to work with me?" She asked. He eyes wide and questioning.

"Yeah, he did. Is that a problem?"

"No. I guess not." She said quietly.

He smiled and took a seat beside her. Ferryn cursed to herself. She could already smell him, that intoxicating cologne he wore made her think things that should be illegal. She took in his casual look of his loose fitting jeans and polo shirt. His feet were adorn with sneakers that matched the red in his shirt. As her eyes moved upward and she noticed his black rimmed glasses. Glancing even further up, she noted he was wearing a red and white ballcap backwards over his black braids. "Seriously, be still, heart. Shit, this is gonna be a long day. Professional, Ferryn. Be professional."

"I didn't know you wore glasses." She spoke softly.

"There are a lot of things you don't know about me, Ferryn. But yes, I do wear glasses. Mostly when reading but they're helpful when I'm in the studio also."

"They look nice. Make you look smart. Like a professor." She smiled shyly.

He chuckled. "Thanks. How's the ankle doing?"

"Fine. Bruised but not broken."

He looked down and found himself starting at the fact she was barefoot. Shaking his head, he looked back at her. "So we meet again. Has to be fate since I couldn't get a phone number out of the lovely Ferryn Phillips." He said.

She laughed at that. "Or it could be that this is LA and you're everywhere. And maybe slipped my name in somewhere."

"I had nothing to do with this. Honestly. Sam called me and told me he needed an extra producer to get this soundtrack done. I simply agreed. I didn't know I'd be working with you until I walked through that door."

"It's okay, Tom. I'll believe you. It's just, this is business okay? This could make or break me and I can't put my job on the line."

He nodded. He was taken aback by her business demeanor. He could tell Ferryn held back more than she let people see. He slapped on his best business attitude and they got to work.

"Where do we begin?"

Ferryn handed Tom a folder that held song lyrics, melodies and intricate instructions of what to do with the song. Along with it was a CD with Ferryn's name on it that he guessed was her demo of the song.

"Sam sprung it on me today that he wants me to do harmonies on the song. Clearly, I'm not a singer but I want to keep my job so here we are."

"You have a lovely voice, Ferryn."

"I have no desire to be a singer though. I just want to write songs and tweak around with them so they sound good. They must be desperate for musicians or something."

Tom turned to Ferryn and looked her in the eye. "Ferryn, Sam is one of the top producers anywhere you go. If he has heard something and thought you'd be good for it, he's taking a pretty good hunch and running with it. I'd trust his opinion. He knows you can do this, as do I."

"Thanks, Tom."

"You're welcome. Now who's doing lead vocals?"

"Mariel. I don't remember her last name but I've been working with her for the past two days."

"Is she planning on coming back today?"

"I honestly don't even know. Sam told me to start from scratch until she got back in here. Whatever that means." Ferryn shrugged.

"Okay, Miss Phillips-"

Ferryn interrupted. "How you know I'm a Miss Phillips?" She laughed.

He picked up her hand and kissed her knuckles quickly. "I see no ring.! Oh and I know my dirt." He winked flirtatiously.

"You think you're pretty slick, Kaulitz? I could have a husband and three kids back in Greenville."

He looked at her seriously and a little hurt shadowed his chiseled features. He slid back a little in the swivel chair. "Are you?" He questioned softly.

Ferryn took a second to study him. She could see the wheels turning in his head. Still, she didn't feel like being a bitch. She looked into his eyes earnestly and slid her chair to fill the space he'd pulled away from. She grabbed his hand and laughed softly. "No, Tom. I'm not."

He let out a silent whoosh of relief before he looked down at her delicate hand on his. "You seem to have left your broomstick back in Greenville. What's the occasion?"

She scoffed but couldn't help but laugh a little. "Excuse me? It's called PMS and if you knew a thing or two about women, you'd know my broomstick isn't the half of it."

He threw his head back and laughed wholeheartedly. "You're too much, Ferryn. But about the broomstick, please keep it in Greenville. I like this side of you."

"Everyone does."

He shook his head and began to shuffle through the folder. "Okay, business. Since Mariel No-Last-Name isn't here, I think we should record your harmonies right now. That way we can mix everything when she gets back and does her vocals."

"You want me to sing now?" Ferryn asked shyly.

"Yes, stop being shy. Let me pop this in and give it a listen then we'll get started."

"Ugh, alright."

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

Two hours later, Ferryn stood in the sound proof booth, barefoot and chewing nervously on the inside of her mouth. With headphones around her neck, she looked at Tom through the window and waited for the heads up.

"Okay, Ferryn, let's give it a try. You know what you're doing. Just come in at the end of 'time' and let it go softly through the first verse. Stop right before 'They're always on your side' and we'll pick it up from there."

"Okay, let's do this." She nodded as she placed the head phones on her ears and listened for the track to begin.

Twenty minutes later, Ferryn took the headphones off and listened for Tom's assurance. "Ferryn, you got it! Come on out."

She stepped out of the sound booth and sat down by Tom as he tweaked with knobs and clicked things on the computer in front of them. "That was seriously the fastest I've ever recorded harmonies for anything in my life."

"Well it was my song so it's not like it was hard but thanks, I think." Ferryn smiled kindly.

"You amaze me. This song is really nice. You wrote this?"

"Yes, I did."

"They knew talent when they saw it."

Ferryn began to blush. She never took compliments well and she certainly didn't know how to take them from one of LA's biggest producers. It's not like her voice would be used on the actual song. She was pretty much like a back up singer of sorts when it came to this track. They were still her words though and she deserved credit where credit was due.

"Honestly, thank you but I'm just doing what Sam told me to do."

"That'll change. You'll see. I'll show you how talented you are."

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

The Next Day

Ferryn slammed her hand down on the sound board loudly and stood up with frustration. "No! I said it doesn't sound right! It's missing background vocals and the music behind it makes it seem like a trashy rap song! This song was strictly written for acoustics behind it. Nothing more."

The other sound engineers groaned loudly at her outburst. "Ferryn, we don't have time to do it that way! Sam wants the song now!"

"I don't care! I didn't write it to sound like some kind of every-day garbage. Either do it with acoustics or don't use it!"

Sam chose that moment to come in a connected room off the studio. "Ferryn, are you alright? Have you slept at all these passed few days?"

"No, Sam. I've been trying to prefect this soundtrack and that's not going to happen if they keep up this nonsense with this track."

"Take the rest of the day off. Go back to the hotel and get some sleep. You're running on empty. Go recharge yourself, please. We'll re-work the track tomorrow afternoon. I promise. Now get moving!"

Ferryn scoffed as she picked up her messenger bag and walked out the door. On an anger rampage, she almost didn't feel the arm grab hers as someone passed her.

"Ferryn, where are you going?" Tom asked.

"Back to the hotel. Everyone has a stick up their ass and they're going to fuck up one of my tracks! I'm sick of it!"

Tom's brows furrowed in confusion. "I'll look into it, okay? Do you need a ride back to the hotel? I just have to drop this disc off for Sam."

"No, thank you. The hotel is right around the corner from here. I'm just going to walk. This is a safe part of LA, isn't it?"

"Well it is but I'd still feel better driving you."

"I'll be fine, Tom. I'll see you later." Ferryn said as she stormed off.

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

Tom walked into the studio and handed Sam the disc he'd been waiting for.

"Thank you, Tom. I appreciate you fixing this on short notice."

"It's not a problem. What's wrong with Ferryn? She seemed pretty upset a second ago.''

"The girl has been working for the past three days on nothing but coffee and adrenaline. I don't think she's sleeping for shit back at the hotel either. She keeps coming back with improved ideas and new ones."

"So she went to sleep?" Tom questioned.

"I hope she's going to sleep. She nearly crashed and burned today."

Tom nodded and exited the studio. "Why do I feel there's more to that angry Ferryn I bumped into?"

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

Ferryn tossed the pen onto the desk when she heard a knock on the door. "Ugh, now who is it?"

She opened the door and was with the familiar brown eyes of Tom Kaulitz.

"May I help you?" She asked coldly.

"Can I come in, Ferryn?" She rolled her eyes and stepped back to allow him into her hotel suite.

He followed her to the desk with several papers spread about aimlessly. "Aren't you suppose to be sleeping?" He asked carefully.

She shrugged and didn't even look up as she went back to her task. "I have stuff to do, Tom. I don't have time to sleep."

He gently grabbed her chin to force her to look into his eyes. "Ferryn, you have dark circles under your eyes. Sam says you've been going non-stop since you got here. You need to sleep, honey." He said as he ran a soft finger under her eye.

"I can't sleep. Haven't you ever been so anxious and exhausted at the same time to the point where you just cannot sleep?"

"Yeah, I have. Have you tried sleeping?"

"Yes. It was pointless."

He took her hand and forced her to follow him. He headed into the bedroom and pulled back the covers on the bed. He pat the bed and looked at her with anticipation for her to crawl in.

Ferryn looked him as though he was crazy. "What are you doing?"

"Quit arguing and just get in the bed, Ferryn." He said sternly.

She stood there, arms crossed and an annoyed look over her face. "I'm not tired." She lied.

"You just said you were. Now quit being stubborn and get into bed or I'll call Sam."

Ferryn let out an annoyed groan of frustration but slipped herself between the sheets. Tom walked to the widows and closed the curtains, trying to drown out any light.

He returned to the opposite side of her and slid off his shoes. To Ferryn's surprise, he crawled in beside her. She looked at him like he was crazy. "Tom, what do you think you're doing?" She snapped.

"Roll over." He instructed. He laughed lightly at her wide eyed expression and replied a quick, "Just do it."

Doing as he said, Ferryn rolled onto her back and positioned her head on the pillow to face him. "You're so bossy, Kaulitz!"

"Just do it, woman!"

When he saw she was situated he began to rub slow, soothing circles on her back. Ferryn immediately let out a sigh of pleasure that went straight to his groin. "Mmmm, what are you doing?"

"Helping you sleep. Relax. Close your eyes."

Ferryn closed her eyes and continued to enjoy the comforting touches that seemed to be lulling her to sleep. Silence quickly took over and Tom thought she was finally asleep. As his hands stilled, her voice interrupted his thoughts. "You're nice, Tom."

"I told you I could be, Ferryn."

She rolled over so she was half on her back. She glanced up at his heavy eyelashes. He looked just about as tired as she was. "I miss this. Sleeping close to someone. You don't realize how much you miss it until it's gone." She spoke softly.

Tom suddenly understood what she meant and his heart sank a little. He'd been craving this for a long time too, just the presence of a woman. Holding an arm out for her to snuggle up to, Tom was a little shocked to find Ferryn doing just that.

She wrapped her snugly against him and softly kissed her forehead. "Try to sleep. You need it."

Melting into his touch, Ferryn found herself on the verge of sleep as his hand rubbed softly up and down her arm. She spoke in a hushed tone. "You keep ending up in my bed, Tom."

He laughed quietly as he kissed the corner of her eye. "All we're doing is sleeping. For now at least." The last part was a mere whisper but he knew she'd heard him by the way he felt her tense against him. "I'm messing with you, Ferryn. Sleep."

He continued his gentle strokes up and down her arm. He felt her relax once again and knew she'd fallen asleep. On the verge following her sleep, Tom asked pondered. "What do I want with Ferryn? Was I really joking about what I said earlier?" He willed his brain to shut off for just a while. He tried to rid the thoughts that crossed his mind and followed Ferryn into what he could only hope was a peaceful slumber.

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

Tom woke some hours later and felt the spot beside him was cool. Ferryn was no longer sleeping comfortably in his arms. He immediately felt the loss. He let his eyes adjust to the darkness of the hotel room. He glanced around and noticed a glow of light coming from the balcony. He pulled the covers off and padded in that direction. He found Ferryn wrapped in a thin blanket on one of the chaise lounges that overlooked the city. She looked contemplative, yet peaceful at the same time. Not wanting to startle her, he began his intro in a soft voice.

"You okay, Ferryn?" He questioned, taking a seat in the lounge beside her. His arms immediately caught chill of the night air and goosebumps formed on his skin.

Ferryn looked up at him and smiled. "Fine. Just thinking."

"You feeling any better?"

Ferryn yawned and stretched a little. "Yes. I get so focused with things that I often forget to stop and take care of myself. It's stupid, I know."

"You're dedicated to this job. Nothing wrong with that but you do need to take care of yourself, Ferryn."

"I know, Tom. I will." She said hoping to change the subject. For some reason, having people constantly on her back made her feel like a child. A little voice in the back of her head reminded her that it felt good to have someone who cared about her. Especially enough to come over and make sure she slept. It was kind of unsettling in a way.

"So what are you up at this odd hour for?" He asked.

"Just thinking. Taking in the city. Kinda forgot where I was when I woke up. Scared me a little."

"Scared you?"

"I'm not used to waking up with a stranger in my bed." She laughed quietly.

"Am I a stranger to you?" He asked, looking directly into her green eyes.

"You know what I mean. I don't know you very well. This is all kinda weird to me. I don't do this kind of thing."

"Do what kind of thing? And have you taken the time to get to know me, Ferryn?"

"You know, this." She waved her hands in the air aimlessly. "Sleeping with someone I don't know. And no, I haven't taken the time to get to know you. I'm not sure if I should."

He looked wounded by that and Ferryn immediately regretted her words.

"First of all, this-" He waved his hands in the air just as she had before he began again. "Is nothing to be ashamed of, Ferryn. We're friends. Yes, maybe we're going about this a little backwards but it's nothing you should feel ashamed of. Finding comfort in the opposite sex is not a crime. We're not having sex. It's not a crime to enjoy someone being close to you. And what do you mean you shouldn't get to know me?"

Ferryn bit her lip as if she were carefully contemplating her next words. She pulled the blanket tighter over her shoulders. "This is a business thing, Tom. It could make or break my career. I don't want people assuming I got ahead because I slept with you. This is LA and I know how things move here. I don't want to be sucked into it. Rumors get started and things get twisted so quickly. I just don't want or need anything negative affecting this. I've worked at it for so long."

Tom looked down at the concrete floor and suddenly understood what she was getting at. He'd be lying if her words didn't sting.

"You think my name is going to bring you down?"

"What? Tom, no! I just meant-"

He interrupted her. "You did too, Ferryn. Whether you meant to say it or not, that's how it came out."

"I just don't want to get involved in something I can't handle, okay? I have no intentions of staying here for longer then I have to. This place feels so jaded to me. I don't want to be a part of it."

His brows furrowed at that. "What will I do when Ferryn goes home. Would she call me? Did she want to see him again?" Tom felt he had made headway with Ferryn over the passed few days and he felt like whatever they had built was all crumbling down right in front of him.

"Can I ask what you've read about me that's so horrible, Ferryn? I know this is all still in the back of your mind. I think you might be surprised to learn the truth."

She almost looked guilty by the question. "I've just heard stories and read things. You've had your fair share of women according to the talk. You've went from one woman to the next, cheating on them?" She left the last part a question and watched as he shook his head.

"I've dated a lot. I guess you could say yes to that. But dating does not always entail everything people often assume it does. And cheat on a girlfriend? I'm not perfect nor do I claim to be, but I've never cheated on a girlfriend. I have more integrity in myself to do something so low. I tend to treat my girlfriends pretty well and get nothing or very little in return. You were right about people twisting things around." He huffed. A glimmer of hurt more then evident in his brown eyes.

Ferryn felt like shit then. If what Tom was telling her was true, she'd made a complete ass of herself. She knew that had been her reason for distancing herself from Tom but she never expected to see him again, let alone work with him. She didn't want to get mixed up in his playboy ways and trash her name before it even got a chance at its own start in the music world.

Ferryn could kick herself as she did a run down in her mind. Each time she'd given in eventually to him sleeping in her bed, sex or not, it still had to mean something. You didn't fall asleep in the arms of another man if you didn't have some type of trust for him. It just didn't work that way or at least, not in her mind. And somehow along the way, she had managed to get herself mixed up in a whirlwind she wasn't prepared for.

"Tom, I'm sorry. I don't know what to say." Ferryn silently cursed herself. "Bullshit." She always knew what to say. What she wasn't prepared for was Tom standing and walking briskly from the balcony.

Feeling like an ass, she followed him into the hotel room and watched as he was putting his shoes on in a hurry.

"You're leaving? It's the middle of the night." She questioned softly.

Tom looked up with hurt eyes nodding. "You'll learn one day, Ferryn, that not everything you read is the truth and that assumptions hurt even worse when someone bases their opinion of you from a lie. And not everyone in LA is as jaded as you make them out to be. You have to learn to look outside the box a little bit. I thought I saw better in you, Ferryn Phillips." And with that, he picked his keys up from the night stand and walked out the door.

What Ferryn didn't know is that Tom's heart stung just as much as hers did. Walking away from her had proven to be harder then he'd thought.

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

She stood there staring at the door, suddenly feeling a loss. Her mind began it's own battle arguing with itself as she cursed herself quietly. What had just happened?

Even more exhausted than before, Ferryn locked the door and turned the light out before throwing her pathetic self into bed. She tossed and turned for several hours. She knew exactly what was missing and exactly how to cure her bought of insomnia. She carefully played over in her head the careful harmless words he'd used earlier to describe whatever was going on between them. She tried to imagine just hours earlier; his scent, his strong arms as they enveloped her through her sleep. Lost in her thoughts, Ferryn lay her head on the pillow Tom had been using and breathed in softly as his scent took over her mind. She closed her eyes as she finally found slumber.

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

A Week Later

Ferryn stared hard at the computer in front of her, occasionally flicking buttons on the soundboard whenever necessary. Mixing music and perfecting tracks were her final tasks of the soundtrack project. Running a hand over her bleary eyes, she tried to stay awake. It had been one week since she had watched Tom walk out of her hotel room and one week since she'd had what could only be counted as a good night's rest.

Her days to come after that were spent in the studio basically non-stop. The occasional five hours back in the hotel room she got each night were spent tossing and turning. They were a constant reminder of what she had said to put herself in this current position. She hadn't spoken to Tom since then and the guilt was eating her alive.

Thinking he'd have to be back to finish up the soundtrack had proven to be a false assumption. She wanted a real chance to apologize face to face but that didn't seem to be in the cards for Ferryn. She hoped to finish the current track she was editing and wrap the project that night so she could be on a flight back to Greenville by tomorrow morning. While she was excited to be going back to what she called home, Ferryn couldn't help but to feel as though she was leaving something important behind. She didn't want to leave without making amends. She was torn between her professionalism and making things right with this guy who had suddenly come into her life.

Sam came bursting through the door. The look of determination was written all over his face. It stirred Ferryn out of her thoughts.

"How are things going, Ferryn?" He asked.

"Not bad. Almost finished."

"Good. Everything is sounding amazing. I'm glad we found you for this project."

"I'm glad too, Sam. I've enjoyed every second of it."

"Great. We'll definitely keep your name in mind for future projects."

"Sounds good."

"Can I hear what you have so far of that track your working on? I have to head out soon but wanted to give it a listen real quick."

"Oh, sure. Let me finish this last part and I'll give you a listen." Ferryn put her hair behind her ears as she shifted in the seat and began to play the track. Sam took a seat beside her and began to listen with interest.

Ferryn took his nodding along to the beat and tapping his fingers on the chair as a good sign. She needed Sam Light to like her work. He was the backbone behind Liquid Music and the one who'd be signing her paycheck.

She studied him a little more intently. His dark hair and muscular build told Ferryn that he was a man who'd been in the business long enough and knew exactly how it was done. He couldn't have been a day over forty though.

"I like it, Ferryn. I think it will blend beautifully with the movie. Good work. We have everything thus far and once you're done with this track, we'll get the ball rolling to final production. I'll be in touch with you. You still going back to Greenville tomorrow?"

"Yeah, I'd planned on it."

"Had enough of LA yet?" He grinned.

"I'm afraid so, Sam. You can't take the Greenville out of this girl. I miss it."

"I don't blame you. LA is something else. It sucks you in, one way or another."

"So we're all set here? I'll drop off my final discs up front and you'll get them correct?"

"Yes. That sounds like a plan. I might have a few more producers come in and fix last minute glitches but you did an awesome job."

"Other producers?" Ferryn questioned, trying not to get her hopes up.

"Yeah, I'm not sure who yet. I know I might need Tom in here eventually to work on a few things. That man's talent amazes me. I'm glad he worked with you, Ferryn. The track your voice is on is amazing."

"Thanks and, yes, he is a talented guy."

"He's had a rough year, that guy. I don't know anyone else who's had their heart stomped on worse but still kept on rolling. He's one of the most level headed, genuine guys I've ever met in the business." Sam spoke honestly.

Ferryn felt more like the scum of the Earth as Sam spoke each word.

"He's had his heart stomped on?" She asked softly.

"Yes. 'Stomped' is putting it lightly. The guy was head over heels in love. Apparently it was a one sided thing though. She was cheating on him for a long time and he had no clue. Let's just say she drug it out into the public eye and made him look like a fool. He was the last know. I've never seen him so lost in his life, but he bounced back up, as he always does."

"I didn't know. He seems like a good guy."

"He's great. He's one of the best friends I've had in this business. Always willing to lend himself for the greater good of others. You know the type, wears his heart on his sleeve.''

"Sounds like it."

"He spoke very highly of you, Ferryn. Said he met you last time you were here for open mic."

"Yeah, we didn't get off to the best start, I guess you could say."

"He'll grow on you, I bet. Just don't make up your mind without giving him a chance. I bet you anything he could be a great friend to you."

"I don't doubt he could be."

"Well, I have to get a move on it. You know what to do when you're done. I'll be in touch, Ferryn. It was a pleasure working with you." He said as he stood, patting her on the shoulder.

"Bye. Thanks for everything!" She waved as she went back to work.

"Work? Yeah right." Her mind was having its own argument with itself. "Ask for his number! No be professional." Ferryn went back an forth before taking a deep breath.

"Have a good flight, Ferryn!" He called as we opened the door.

"Do it before he's gone, you idiot!"

"Sam!" She called out. He turned towards her, hand still on the door looking at her intently. "Would you be able to give me Tom's number by any chance?" She asked timidly.

He looked at her and nodded, always a business man but an equal amount of a soft side. "Sure. I know he said he had a project he was working on in New York or something. Not sure when he was leaving though." He pulled out his blackberry, brought the number up and read it out loud to Ferryn.

She grabbed a random piece of paper from the folder of papers she spread out aimlessly in front of her and scribbled it down as fast as she could and turned to Sam.

"Thank you, Sam. I appreciate it."

"No problem, Ferryn. I'll see you later." He waved and with that he was out the door.

Ferry tried to finish her task but she couldn't help but glance at the number scribbled just minutes earlier. She knew if she continued this annoying habit that she'd never get anything done. She tucked the number back into the folder and continued working.

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

Ferryn paced her hotel room, making sure she'd picked up everything and had it packed for her leave. When she got back that night, her mind began its usual arguments with her guilt-ridden self. She glanced at the number, starring at it and picking up her phone several times only to throw it back down on her bed and sigh in frustration. She had no clue what was holding her back. The situation only wore on her nerves even more.

Tom deserved an apology and Ferryn deserved to explain herself and even give him a chance. She wondered what he was doing right at that moment. "Does he have a girlfriend? Ugh, why is that any of my business?" The solitude of her hotel room was finally getting to her. Ferryn glanced at the clock beside her bed and realized it was already one thirty in the morning. That meant that it was three thirty back home and normally she'd be asleep, comfortably in her bed. She grabbed her phone and padded softly to the one place she'd found peace in her hotel room: the balcony.

Sitting down in the familiar chaise lounge, she opened her phone and began catching up on random text messages she'd received from friends and family while being away. She'd never found the sanity or peace and quiet to respond until now. She let everyone know she was doing fine and would be home tomorrow. Then she brought up her contact list and stared at the name she'd added to her cell phone only hours earlier.

She closed her eyes and breathed in a sigh of nervousness as she pressed send. Not expecting him to answer this late made her heart rate slow down as she listened to the phone ring. By the 4th ring, Ferryn let out a deep breath as his voice mail clicked on.

"Hey, it's Tom. Sorry you missed me but if you leave your name and number, I'll be sure to get back with you."

Ferryn waited for the beep before she spoke, hoping with everything in her that she didn't sound like a babbling idiot.

"Hey, Tom. It's, um- It's Ferryn. I was kinda hoping we'd get the chance to talk before I went back home. I wanted to apologize for the other night and for a lot of things I said. I hope we can start over eventually. Anyways, I'm leaving in about five hours but uh, give me a call sometime if you feel like talking to me again. Bye."

And with that, Ferryn shut her phone and stood up to make her way back to her bed. She tossed herself pathetically down on the bed before she covered herself up and flipped on the TV. She prepared for another sleepless night before it was time to board her plane.

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

Ferryn walked quickly into the headquarters of Liquid Music and began her destination down the hallway until she got where she needed to be. Talking kindly with the lady at the front desk, she handed her the tightly sealed envelope with Sam's information on it and smiled. Once it was placed in secure hands, she turned to walk out of the reception area and glanced at her cell phone. Noting she had no new messages, she shut it and threw it aimlessly back into her blue messenger back and continued toward the door.

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

Tom pushed the up arrow and waited for the doors to slide open before he walked into the elevator. He pressed the number three on the keypad. He watched as it lit and the elevator began moving up. As it dinged, he stepped off and made his way down the hall. Running a hand over his exhausted features he walked up the counter and greeted the person he'd been looking for.

"Morning, Mr. Kaulitz."

"Good morning, Charlie!" He smiled brightly.

"I just received the disc Sam wanted me to forward to you." She said as she picked it up and handed it to him.

"Already? I thought that wasn't suppose to be done for another week or so."

Charlie looked at him confused. "Miss Phillips just dropped it off. She was in the studio late last night finishing it."

"Miss Phillips? You mean Ferryn?" He asked as his stomach did a flip flop.

"Yes, Ferryn Phillips. You just missed her."

"Thanks." Tom said in a hurry as he grabbed the envelope and took off for the elevator. He pushed the down button repeatedly until the doors opened and he waited anxiously until it landed on the first floor. He burst out of the elevator and jogged over to the main entrance of the Liquid Music studio. He ran out the door looking around with a small glimmer of hope.

He looked down the street only to see a cab pull off from the curb and hung his head low as it began to drive away. He'd just missed her.

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

Ferryn had just buckled her seat belt with a click as she sat back in her seat and was digging through her messenger bag for her iPod. She placed it beside her and waited until the captain announced that they were going to be taking off in a matter of minutes. She leaned back and closed her eyes trying to will away her stress.

Leaving LA felt good but she was also happy for everything the past few weeks had entailed. She'd grown as a songwriter and as a producer in such a short amount of time. Her career had a path now and she had gained the respects of some pretty big people in the business. The future was looking promising.

Doing a run down, she couldn't help but to think of the man she'd become closer with and in one moment, had willed it all away. She was a fish out of water and he'd done his best to befriend her. She'd let her assumptions and bitter words get in the way. Now she was on the way back home to Greenville, and all she could feel was guilty.

Ferryn prided herself in being a good person but right then, that was the last thing she thought of herself. Her mind flashed back to Tom and his smile, his low key flirtatious mannerism and his easy approach. He could make her laugh and be professional at the same time and she loved that. But she blew it and now had no idea how she'd fix her faults when he she was about to be over 2,000 miles away from him.

She willed her mind to shut up as she leaned back in her seat and stared aimlessly out the window.

Her phone buzzed loudly in her purse. She rummaged through it and picked it up. She stared at the name that flashed before her on the caller ID. She took in a deep breath before she answered. Shaky hands opened it and lifted it to her ear.

"Hello?"

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

"Hey, Ferryn. It's Tom."

She closed her eyes and took a minute to gather herself. "Hey. I'm glad you called."

"We must have just missed each other. I just left the studio and they said you just left there yourself."

"Yeah, I worked on the tracks for Sam last night and finished what I could. I was suppose to leave them for him to give to you or something."

Tom laughed a little. "Yeah, I got it. So you're heading back to Greenville today?"

"Yeah, getting ready to take off soon, I think." She said as she looked out the widow beside her.

"You're already on the plane?" He questioned softly.

Ferryn immediately heard the drop in his voice and it pulled at her heart strings. "Yeah. I was hoping we'd get the chance to talk before I left." Her declaration hung thick in the air.

"I was hoping for that too."

"I'm sorry for what I said, Tom. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings."

"Apology accepted."

"Can we start over?" She asked softly.

She could almost here the smile in his voice. "I'd like that, Ferryn."

"Good. Me too."

"So back to Greenville again, eh?"

"Yes. Let's hope I get to stay for longer than 24 hours this time."

Tom let out a carefree laugh. "LA loves Ferryn. What can we say?"

"It seems to. Sam said you're leaving to work on another project?"

"Yeah, I think I'm suppose to leave sometime this week. I haven't been given the final word of where or when yet though."

"Well, good luck with everything."

"Thanks. So what are you up to once you get back home?" He asked.

"Uh, sleep I hope. I might do a few open mic nights here and there. Oh and I have like four photo shoots I need to get done. I kinda had to put them on hold when I left last minute for LA."

"Photo shoots?"

"Yeah, I do album covers for Indie bands here. I also shoot random things here and there. I love photography just about as much as I love music."

"Well, check you out, Miss Multi-tasker."

Ferryn laughed at that. "I enjoy the work."

"I feel like there's so much more I have to learn about you, Ferryn."

"Oh, I've only just begun, Tom. Same goes for you though."

"It will happen in time. I have your number now. There's no escaping me." He said as he tried to sound intimidating.

"I wasn't trying to escape you. I'm sorry I based my opinions of you on lies and assumptions."

"It's in the passed now. We're starting over."

"Good. I promise I'm not always a bitch." She chuckled and she could tell he was grinning as he spoke again.

"Let's hope so. The Ferryn I know can be pretty brutal."

"Yeah, yeah. I really don't want to sit on a plane for the next four or five hours."

"You could sleep." He suggested.

"I could try. I don't really sleep well on airplanes. I'll probably just listen to my iPod or read." Ferryn suggested.

"Read? Got anymore of those dirty books?"

Ferryn could just picture the seductive look on Tom's chiseled features as he said that. "None of your business, Mister."

"There's no shame in reading kinky books."

"Kinky? What the hell? I don't read stuff like that!" She defended. Ferryn didn't even notice the pink complexion on her cheeks until her face suddenly felt hot.

"If they're not kinky then what kind are they?" He laughed.

"We're not having this conversation. Next subject."

"Aw, come on. Um, let's see here." Ferryn could tell Tom was up to no good. "What kind of sex do they have in the books?"

"Tom! Oh my god. Mind out of the gutter now please!"

He snickered at her outrage and could picture her all flustered and embarrassed. "I'm curious, that's all."

"They're romance novels. It's cute sex, okay? Nothing kinky or whatever else you're thinking. Now please, new subject."

"Fine, party pooper. Do you have any idea when you're getting back to LA?"

"Not off the top of my head. I know Sam said he'd call me if anything came up and or if he needed me for anymore snags in the soundtrack."

"Well, you should come out her a few days early next time you visit. I could show you around LA and stuff."

"That'd be cool." She agreed shyly.

"Cool. It'd be fun."

"Okay, it looks like we're about to take off. I have to get going. I'll talk to you soon though?"

"Okay. Have a safe flight. You'll be hearing from me soon. Call me when you land if you'd like, just so I know you made it home safe."

"Okay, Tom." His firm voice was a little unsettling. He was always looking out for her and she wasn't used to that.

"Have fun reading your dirty book, Ferryn. Bye."

Ferryn rolled her eyes but couldn't help smiling. "Bye, Tom." She said before she closed her phone and shut it off. Being friends with Tom Kaulitz was going to be an adventure.

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

Ferryn pulled out her cell phone right as she slid into the back seat of the taxi and began to fill out the needed info. Running her fingers across the keypad, she sent Tom a quick message as she'd promised.

I made it back home safe and sound. My dirty book was quite entertaining. Talk to you soon.

Ferryn

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

Tom felt his cell phone vibrate against his thigh as he walked into the front door of his house. He didn't expect to hear from Ferryn so soon but smiled as he opened the message. Shaking his head, he text her back.

Glad to hear you made it back alive. Thank god for dirty books

Tom

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

One Week Later

Ferryn had just made it into her loft, juggling her camera and her messenger bag. She tried not to drop either of the two objects as she tossed her keys to the small stand by the door. She set her stuff down and grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge as she kicked off her flip-flops and plopped down on the couch.

Rubbing a hand over her tired features, Ferryn glanced at the clock before flipping on the TV. Noting it was only 3:30, she began flipping through the channels before settling on a Lifetime movie. She only made it to the first set of commercials before she drifted off to sleep.

Twenty minutes later, the sound of her cell phone singing loudly woke her from her slumber. She answered it without glancing at the screen to see who it was. "Hello?" She answered half asleep.

"Ferryn, it's Tom. Did I wake you?"

She rolled over and sat up a little. "I must have dozed off watching TV. It's fine."

"How have you been?"

"Busy but good. You?"

"Same. Sorry I haven't called sooner. The vibes have been great in the studio this week."

"It's okay. That's good to hear!"

"Yeah. So what have you been up to?" He asked softly.

"I've gotten two of the photo shoots done. I went down to the lake the other day with some friends and other then that, I've just been hanging out. Trying to get my body clock back to Greenville time."

"Sounds like a productive week so far!"

Ferryn laughed. "Yes, it has been. I was so exhausted when I got home that I turned on the TV and only made it through twenty minutes of the movie. I'm a winner."

He chuckled at her antics. "Nothing wrong with sleeping. One of my favorite hobbies."

"Mine too but I feel if do it too much, I waste the day away."

"I know that feeling. Any word from Sam yet?"

"No. Nothing yet."

"He'll call. I know he will."

Ferryn let out a yawn. "I figured he will. I'm enjoying being home for now."

"So there's no way we'd get you back to LA anytime soon, huh?"

"Who's asking?' She asked curiously.

Tom laughed as he tinkered around with the soundboard in front of him. "Uh, Me?"

Ferryn felt her heart flip flop. "You want me to come to LA?"

"If you want to." He answered absently, silently holding his breath.

"I'm sure I'll get there soon enough. And if I didn't have prior commitments, I might say yes."

"I understand, Ferryn. It's cool."

"So what are your plans for the rest of the day?" She asked casually.

"My brother and I might catch a movie later on. It's kind of a low key day. I've been tinkering around in the studio here and there."

"Sounds fun. I didn't know you had a brother."

Instead of putting blame on Ferryn for not knowing this bit of information, he decided to inform her now. "Yeah, he's my identical twin although I'm 10 minutes older. He lives with me, he's a model. He's also a giant ball of dork. You can't not love Bill."

"That's awesome. Do you have any other siblings?"

"No, it's just me and Bill. You?"

"One sister and one brother, both older."

"Aw, Ferryn is the baby." He laughed.

"Yeah, yeah. I'm the coolest."

"No doubts there. So how old are you?"

"Is this 50 questions?" Ferryn laughed as she stood up and stretched, cracking her back in the process.

"It's called Getting to know my new friend, Ferryn." Tom said as he stood from his chair in the studio and walked upstairs.

"I'm twenty-six."

"Ah, my assumptions were close."

"And you would be?"

"Twenty-three. We're so old."

"Oh, yes. So old, Tom. We better get fitted for hearing aids soon."

He let out a full laugh as he walked into the kitchen going right for the fridge. "You're something else, Ferryn Phillips."

"Why thank you. I aim to please."

"Is that so?" He asked, humor laced in his voice.

"Did someone spike your water with Viagra?" She questioned.

He let out another laugh. "Not that I'm aware of. I'm just teasing you. If it bothers you, I won't do it."

"You're fine, Tom. I just like teasing back."

"Okay. If you're sure."

"I'm good. You're fine."

"Thanks. You're not so bad yourself." He smirked, the cockiness evident in his voice.

"Ugh, you're too much. I need to get up and find something for dinner."

"Do you cook?"

"Yeah. I just got a new Easy Bake Oven last week."

"Oh, look who just took a double dose of sarcasm."

"Yes, I can cook. I'm actually pretty good at it."

"Maybe you could give me lessons sometime. I suck at it."

"You can't cook anything? Geez, Kaulitz. I'm kind of shocked."

"I never said I can't make anything. I've been known to make a mean Poptart or two."

"Oh Poptarts! Where do I sign up?"

He laughed again as he poured himself a glass of tea and took a drink before setting the glass back down on the counter. "What are your specialties?"

"I'm really all about making pasta and grilled chicken. It's my favorite."

"That sounds good. You'll have to teach me sometime."

Ferryn walked into her small kitchen and begin searching the refrigerator for something to eat. "Maybe sometime."

"Okay good. So what's for dinner tonight?"

"It looks like a chef salad will do for now."

"Sounds good to me. Can I come over?"

"Sure, Tom."

"Okay, I can take a hint. I'll let you get back to making dinner. Call me when you're not sleeping or cooking." He smiled when he heard her laugh and could hear the sounds of her rummaging around, opening things.

"I'll do that. Have fun with Bill tonight."

"I will. Later, sweetie."

"Bye."

He hit the end button and slid his phone across the counter top.

"Sweetie, eh?"

Tom placed his hand across his heart as he gasped for breath. "My god, Bill! You scared the shit out of me!"

"Sorry. I couldn't resist. Who were you talking to?"

"A friend."

"You call you're friends, sweetie?"

"Sometimes. Yes." Tom replied. He could tell where this was going.

"Do I know this friend?" Bill asked as he stepped around Tom and opened the door to the fridge.

"No, you don't."

"And you met her where?"

"I met her a few weeks ago at an open mic night for songwriters. I actually worked with her recently on a soundtrack."

"Ah, she's a singer?"

"No. She's a songwriter actually. Hence why she was at an open mic night for songwriters." Tom held his fingers up with air quotes for extra affect. "She's just kind of getting into the whole production thing. She's amazingly talented though. A lot of fun to work with too."

"And?" Bill looked at his brother as if he expected more to the story.

"And, what? She's a great girl. I don't know her all that well yet but she keeps me on my toes. She's a fierce ball of energy."

"Is she single?"

"You know what, I'm not even sure."

"Do you plan on finding out? I mean, do you like her?"

"Yes and I'm not sure. A part of me wants to but then a part of me is still messed up from you-know-who."

Bill nodded knowingly. He was still angry at Tom's ex for doing what she did to him. He hadn't been the same since.

"Give it time, Tom. You're still healing. It will happen when it's meant to be."

"Yeah, I know. I find myself thinking of Ferryn at weird times of the day. She has this addicting personality."

"Ferryn, huh? She'd be lucky to have you, brother."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence, Bill. Are we going to the movies or what?"

"Yes, let's go. Let me just grab my wallet and we can go."

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

Three Weeks Later

Ferryn grumbled and rolled her eyes as she tried to perfect the photos on the screen before her. It seemed the band she had photographed earlier in the day wasn't in to mood to play the role of models and the pictures looked like absolute shit. She'd managed to scrounge a few possibilities for what they were looking for but if they didn't approve, she'd have to shoot it all over again and that was something she wasn't looking forward to.

Her days were spent in the typical fashion of her keeping busy. She'd gotten six new assignments for photo shoots through the company she worked for and had buried herself in the work, perfecting photo after photo and loving every second of it. Until today.

She kept in contact with Tom every now and then, having random phone conversations with him here and there. Through their periodic chats, it became a 'thing' to share their daily tasks and they spoke casually of life and music and then there was always their never ending banter and harmless perverted innuendos.

Ferryn was starting to admit to herself that she began to miss his company. She was actually growing restless, having heard nothing from Sam and she had began to feel a void from being in LA. She just didn't have the courage to bring it up to Tom even though he had asked but she kindly filled him in that she was plenty busy with work at home and was always happy to share a melody or song idea with him.

She found out quickly that his knack for music didn't end in person but was with him wherever he went. He'd always lend her an opinion or make a kind suggestion when he knew a better way to go about something artistic. She'd even found herself holding the phone out as she played a melody, asking for his honest opinion. Ferryn was quickly coming dependent on his weekly chats. They gave her something to look forward to and seemed to be keeping her sane in her crazy world. His creativity was good for her life.

Ferryn exited out of the photo editing program she was working on. She stood and grabbed her things before saying her goodbyes and making her way out the door.

She needed to take her angers and frustrations to better measures and the one thing that did that for her was the gym. That was another one of the hundred reasons she loved her loft. The fifth floor came equipped with a state of the art gym. It had everything you could possibly ever need to stay in shape. Better yet, it was opened twenty-four hours a day.

As Ferryn walked into her loft, she tossed her stuff down. She quickly changing into her work-out clothes before heading up the elevator to the gym.

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

She turned her iPod down and removed the headphones from her ears. She took a long drink of water from the bottle she'd brought with her just as her cell phone chirped loudly. Glancing at the caller ID, she smiled as she brought it to her ear.

Taking in a deep breath and trying to control her breathing, Ferryn answered. "Hello?"

"Hey, Ferryn! How are you?"

"Hey, Tom. I'm-" She gasped, trying to suck in some oxygen. "I'm okay. You?"

"I'm fine. You sound out of breath. Are you alright?"

She took another swig of water trying to calm her racing heart. Working out had kicked her ass. "I'm fine. Just leaving the gym."

"Oh, you had me worried for a second."

"I'm fine. Burning off some anger and energy"

"What's wrong?"

"Just had some issues today at work. I might have to re-shoot a band. The photos turned out like crap. Things have just been sort of nuts"

"I'm sorry. Keep your head up. Things will get better."

She smiled. She could always count on Tom for a boost of confidence. "You're right. They will. Thanks."

"Anytime. So what are you up too for the rest of the day?"

She didn't think anything of it before she answered. "I'm pretty sure I've been suckered into playing tonight at a friend of mine's piano bar. I'm actually kind of excited. I haven't played in an atmosphere like that in a while."

"Oh, that sounds like fun actually. I kind of wish I could be there to see you."

"I'm sure you've got more important things to do."

"You're important to me, Ferryn." He spoke softly but his voice was firm and final.

She didn't know how to respond. She unlocked her door and walked into her loft, willing her beating heart to slow down.

"I, um- Thanks." She responded, hoping he'd change the subject.

"I didn't mean to scare you. Just making a statement."

"No, it's- You're fine. It just took me by surprise is all."

"Okay, so what's the name of this piano bar?"

"Um, it's called 88 Keys. It's on 10th Street. Ever been there?"

"It sounds familiar actually."

"Have you spent a lot of time in Greenville?" She asked, kicking off her sneakers.

"I have friends who used to live here. They still have their flat there and everything. They call New York home now. I guess you could say I've gotten my fair taste. It's been about four years or so though."

"That's cool. I love it here. I can't imagine living anywhere else."

"It is a great place. So what time are you going on?" He asked casually.

"Do you plan on stalking me or something, Kaulitz?"

He laughed at that. "My stalker schedule is full for the rest of the afternoon. I might be able to pencil you in around ten pm though." He joked.

Ferryn couldn't help but laugh. The mood was finally not so thick. She was grateful. "My very own stalker? I've always wanted one. And it's you! How did I get so lucky?"

Tom rolled his eyes and laughed as he continued. "You smart ass. You're lucky you're so adorable."

"Or else?" She gigged, edging him on.

"Or else I might have to um... yeah. I got nothing."

Ferryn let out a light-hearted girlish laugh. "That's what I thought. Not a bad bone in your body, Sparky."

"Um, Sparky?"

"You heard me. Now what are you up to today?"

"Working and talking to you of course." He quipped.

"Always working. A man after my own heart."

"You know how it goes. I actually have to get going. I just wanted to say hi and see how your week and day were going. I'm sure I'll talk to you soon."

"Okay, Tom, I'll talk to you later. Have a good night, stalker." She snickered.

He laughed. His smile shone in his eyes, forming small crinkles in the corners. "Goodbye, Ferryn."

"Bye, Tom."

And with that they hung up as Ferryn headed straight for the shower to rinse away her work out and get ready for the piano bar.

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

"Ferryn Phillips! Get over here, gorgeous!" Hunter said as he opened his arms, anticipating her embrace.

Ferryn walked over to him and embraced him tightly. She pulled back as he leaned forward, kissing her cheek softly.

"I've missed you, love!"

"I've missed you too, Hunter. Things have been crazy busy lately. You're lucky I agreed to come tonight." She grinned.

"LA seems to love you, I hear. Who wouldn't?" He said eying her up and down. "You look amazing!"

Ferryn blushed but rolled her eyes. "You're not so bad yourself."

"We're glad you came tonight! It's been a while since I've heard anything new."

"You know how I feel about being a performer. You're lucky I love you!"

"I love you too, babe. Now get moving! Show us what you've got!"

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

Ferryn took a seat at the baby grand piano, rubbing her fingers over the keys before actually playing anything. Leaning forward, she spoke softly into the microphone perched in front of her. "This is song I wrote not to long ago so bare with me as I work out all the kinks. This ones called 'In the City'."

She began to sing, her voice shaky at first but she immediately got lost in the song.

There are parties every Saturday night
The bars full of perfume, cigarettes and a good time
It's a place you can't stand for longer than one night
'Cause these boys only listen when I sing
And I just don't feel like singing at all tonight

Here in this city
A girl could get lost in these lights
I'm searching for a reason to light outta here
When there's nothing here I can hold on to
Can I hold on to you?

The faces and conversations are always the same
Wolves in sheep's clothing whispering Hollywood's name
They Steal gold from the silver they see
But that's just not me

Ferryn's eyes were closed. She played the piano keys by memory and faded away with each word she sang. Feeling a random chill hit her arm, she opened her eyes as goosebumps suddenly formed on her skin. Glancing around the bar, looking around at nothing in particular, she continued.

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

He watched from the door, taking in the site of her. Her light brown hair had been pulled into a high pony tail but seemed to be curly and cascading down her back. The black tank top she wore was low cut and scooped down her chest in a modest way. Looking further, he noted the light colored jeans and her typical foot apparel of flip flops. Her heavily mascaraed lashes were thick sweeps across the top of her cheek bones as her eyes were shut as she sang. She looked gorgeous.

Sliding as quietly as possible into a small booth, he watched in awe. His eyes never leaving her.

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

She played on as she scanned the audience again. Familiar faces and some unfamiliar met her eyes. Doing a once over, she came across a pair of piercing brown eyes as her head snapped back. "It couldn't be!"

Though it was dark, she could make out certain features as he looked back at her. Her eyes never left his as she she continued the song. She had to be losing it. No way her eyes were telling the truth.

I need someone to save me
I'm fading away
I need someone to save me
I'm fading away
Am I gone?

Here in this city
A girl could get lost in these lights
I'm searching for a reason to light outta here
When there's nothing here I can hold on to
Can I hold on to you?

Their eyes never left the other as she finished softly. He immediately stood up and applauded with everyone else. Ferryn gasped. It was him. Dressed in dark jeans and a white button down shirt, rolled up to his elbows. He looked gorgeous. That was the only way she knew how to put it. It still didn't explain what he was doing in Greenville at the piano bar watching her sing nonetheless. Still she couldn't help but to smile. She'd missed him and he was there!

He walked up to her as she walked towards him, surpassing all the compliments and musical praises from her friends and strangers alike. Meeting in the middle, they stood there, neither moving.

"Tom?" She whispered softly.

He smiled, melting her insides in the process. He took a step closer. "Someone order a stalker?" He joked.

With wide confused eyes, she looked at him as if he had two heads. "You're nuts." She laughed before she closed the distance between them and wrapped her arms around his lean frame, resting her chin on his shoulder. She breathed in his scent, all to familiar in a strange but comforting way.

Tom was taken aback by this but welcomed the heat of her easily. He expected her to pull back immediately but she didn't. He graciously rubbed her back with one hand as she mumbled against his neck. "I've missed you, Tom."

"I've missed you too, Ferryn." He spoke, his voice thick with emotion.

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

Ferryn looked around nervously, blinking at the realization that Tom really was standing in front of her. It hadn't sunk in yet. Stepping out of their embrace, she looked up and smiled at him bigger than she realized.

"Seriously, what are you doing here?" She asked pulling him into a booth out of the way.

"Working of course." He smiled as he took a seat beside her and rubbed the back of his neck nervously.

"Who on earth would you work with in Greenville?" She asked. Tom had been known to work with the big names and Ferryn was finding it hard to believe anyone of that level would be there in Greenville.

"Some up and coming artist. I was asked to produce and write a track, so here I am."

Ferryn noted his dark eyes in the dimly lit room of the bar and smiled back. "I'm glad you're here." She repeated.

"Me too. I got to see you perform! Amazing by the way."

Ferryn laughed quietly as she punched him in the arm. "I cannot believe you were serious with all that stalker talk on the phone. I thought you were just in an extra weird Tom mood."

He grinned and shook his head, poking the dimple at the bottom of her chin. "You'll learn to never underestimate me, Ferryn. I am a man of many creeper abilities."

"Don't I know it!" She smirked but then grew serious. "How long are you here for?"

"I hope to get this wrapped up in three or four days. Just a guess though."

"Oh, okay." Ferryn tapped nervously at her pants leg. "Would you like something to drink?"

Tom nodded, already standing up but Ferryn stopped him. She waved over one of the waiters that made constant runs to the tables through out the night. After Tom placed his order, he turned to Ferryn, waiting for her to do the same.

"I'll just have a bottled water please."

The waiter nodded and turned to walk away. Tom looked at her funny. "No alcohol?"

"No. Don't drink really. I'm boring."

"Nothing wrong with that. I'm sure you could have a good time regardless."

She tucked a run away curl behind her ear and winked. "I do, thanks."

Tom smiled and winked back as the waiter placed his beer down in front of him, along with Ferryn's water. They sat there and chatted for the next hour or so. Time became irrelevant and they spoke aimlessly of events that they'd missed while listening to the other musicians sing at the piano in the distance.

It was after everyone had started to fade out of the bar and pass by Ferryn with goodbyes that Tom noted how late it had actually gotten. He observed the genuine way Ferryn would smile as she thanked those who praised her. He couldn't see one fake bone in her body and he respected that about her. Tom had remembered her saying she didn't take compliments well but she knew how to be gracious as they were handed to her. Her smiled glowed in the dim glow of the club and he couldn't take his eyes off her.

Tom noticed a tall, curly haired man walk towards Ferryn and wrap his arms around her as she stood to greet him. He watched as the man's hands lingered at the small of her back and he kissed the corner of her mouth softly. Tom suddenly felt uneasy. She'd never mentioned a boyfriend to him and he swiftly felt like he was stepping on toes. He tried to ignore the jealousy he felt as Ferryn turned in the man's arms and smiled towards him.

"Tom, this is Hunter Brown. He's the owner of this bar and a very good friend of mine. Hunter, this is Tom Kaulitz. Singer, producer, musical extraordinaire." Ferryn said as she watched them shake hands.

"Nice to meet you, Tom. Ferryn's told me a lot about you."

"Likewise. This is a nice place you have here." Tom nodded. He watched with careful eyes as Hunter never let his grip go from around Ferryn's waist. Once again, he felt out of place.

"Thanks. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Having the talent of Ferryn doesn't hurt." He said as he winked at her. She laughed flirty-like and slapped Hunter's chest.

"I know what you mean. It seems to be endless." Tom spoke quietly as he shared a soft smile with Ferryn.

"Well, I hate to cut this short but I've got to get things closed up. Hopefully we can talk more another time." Hunter said as he finally released his grip on Ferryn and placed another kiss on her cheek before walking away.

Ferryn slid back into the booth and looped her arm with Tom's before smiling up at him brightly. "I'm really glad you're here, Tom. I hope you had fun."

"I enjoy your company. I'm glad I'm here too." He said, his eyes burning into hers.

Suddenly feeling at a lost for words, Ferryn stood up and pulled Tom along with her. They walked through the bar and stopped in front of the black piano she'd played hours earlier. She ushered her friend to sit down beside her.

Tom rubbed his fingers lightly over the keys as he looked over at Ferryn confused.

"Do I get a private show or something?" Ferryn laughed and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear and stretched quickly.

"No. You got to hear me sing, now it's my turn to hear you."

Tom arched an eyebrow and couldn't help it as his lips turned up in the corner into a grin. "You think I'm going to play for you, eh?"

Ferryn crossed her arms and turned towards him on the slick bench. "Yes. I've always wanted to hear you sing with nothing but a piano."

"What if I have a horrible voice?" He challenged.

"Pshht. Please, Kaulitz. I'd bet my life on the odds of that."

"Wow, Ferryn. That's a lot of faith you have in me."

"It is a lot because I know I'm right. Now come on, Tom, please?" She looked up at him with hopeful eyes and he couldn't help but to cave.

"Okay, Miss Adamant. I'll play you a song. Any requests?"

"No. I nagged so you get to choose."

Tom laughed playfully, situating himself in front of the piano. "How kind of you, sweetheart."

Ferryn just grinned and turned to face him while scooting back on the bench and folding her arms, waiting intently. The club was next to empty and she was more than excited for what was about to come. Her own private Tom show.

Tom turned towards her, suddenly looking shy. "This is one of my favorite songs so, um- Yeah. Here we go."

Ferryn nodded as he begin to play.

The familiar melody began to play and Ferryn held her breath.

Turn down the lights
Turn down the bed
Turn down these voices
Inside my head

Lay down with
Tell me no lies
Just hold me close
Don't patronize
Don't patronize me

She watched him get lost in the song. His voice was smooth and strong all at the same time as his long slender fingers slid over the ivory keys with eased perfection. His face contorted with seriousness as his lips glistened as he sang. She willed away the tears that were burning behind the depths of her eyes as she watched him continue in awe.

I can't make you love me
If you don't
You can't make your heart feel something it won't
Here in the dark
In these final hours
I will lay down my heart
And I'll feel the power
But you won't
No, you won't
Cause I can't make you love me
If you don't

I'll close my eyes
Then I won't see
The love you don't feel
When you're holding me
Morning will come
And I'll do what's right
Just give me til then
To give up this fight
And I will give up this fight

Ferryn's heart swelled with each word. A song she'd forgotten about but always held close to her heart. It was now a bittersweet memory but she didn't feel like interrupting Tom as he sang. His voice was unexplainable. She wished she could bottle the sound of it and listen to it whenever she wanted. It soothed parts inside of her that she'd never known to be broken. Instead of bringing up the past, she smiled once again and grinned as he turned towards her and sang the ending.

I can't make you love me
If you don't
You can't make your heart feel something it won't
Here in the dark
In these final hours
I will lay down my heart
And I'll feel the power
But you won't
No, you won't
Cause I can't make you love me
If you don't

Tom finished softly and turned towards his awaiting audience noticing that she was grinning ear to ear but her eyes were glistening with tears.

"You alright, honey?" He asked concerned, already reaching out for her.

Ferryn nodded but accepted his embrace. "I'm fine. Just reminded me of someone. You're amazing, Tom. I'm speechless."

"Thank you, Ferryn. That felt good. Are you sure you're okay?"

"I'm great." She gave him a confident smile. She looked around and noted that Hunter had begun to turn all the chairs upside down as he did every night right before he put the bar to sleep. "Where are you staying tonight?" She asked, as she stood up. She passed one more wave to Hunter as she watched him work.

Tom stood and followed her to the door. "I'm at the Hilton on Greenville Boulevard."

"That's not to far from my loft. Want to come over and watch a movie or something? Or do you have to work early?"

"Oh, I'm curious as to what the 'or something' entails." He laughed.

Ferryn laughed and rolled her eyes. "Always in the gutter, Kaulitz."

He winked flirtatiously at her. "A movie sounds fun and no, I don't have to work until late morning."

"Alright. I'll lead the way." Ferryn said as she walked outside in the cool summer air of the night and hailed a cab.

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

Tom stood with his hands in his pockets as Ferryn unlocked the door. She pushed it open and flicked on the light as she held it open and waited for Tom to step inside.

"Welcome to casa de Ferryn." She laughed.

Tom stood there and looked around speechless. The moment he'd stepped in, he was immediately drawn to the high ceilings and wide space of what could only be described as a city loft. The door led to a wide open living room with modern and comfortable looking furniture. From there, Tom's gaze couldn't miss the way the windows went all around the center of the room and over looked the city, with lights and cars flashing every which way. The sounds were what set it off. It was absolutely breathtaking.

What wasn't adorned by windows held a brick texture to it and was the color of sandy brown. It looked rustic and stylish all at the same time. From the living room he noted what had to be a small but roomy looking kitchen decked out with none other than black granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances. Around the counter top, neatly aligned, were four bar stools. To the left of that in a small nook, sat a dining table with chairs with a bowl of fruit neatly positioned in the middle. From there his eyes followed the spiral staircase that looked like it lead to a true fashioned loft bedroom.

Behind that, he could see more space that led to another room, not to mention a couple of doors here and there. Following Ferryn, he caught eye of two sliding glass doors that had to lead to a balcony. They were Ferryn's favorite or so it seemed in his short time of knowing her.

Tom turned to her and smiled as she kicked off her flip flops before he spoke. "This place is amazing, Ferryn."

"Thank you. I love it, everything about it. It's home."

Tom followed her into the living room as he gazed around him at the surroundings. He noticed there were photos everywhere. Large snapshots of everything you could think of. People smiling, some with Ferryn in them, several landscape photos, others he couldn't make out, some from places he'd never seen and even a random painting here and there. This place was slowly becoming everything he'd built in is mind about Ferryn. An artistic city girl. He was intrigued and touched at the same time. She just kept getting better and better to him.

"I'm speechless, Ferryn. This place is amazing! The photos- I don't even know where to begin."

"I took most of them myself. Just places I've been, people I love, something that strikes my interest at the moment."

"They're breathtaking. I'm jealous." He said as he walked over to inspect a painting more clearly.

Ferryn laughed as she walked towards the kitchen. "Want something to eat or drink before we decide on a movie?"

"Bottled water if you have it, please."

"Coming right up." She said. "I'm going to go put on some sweats so I'll be comfortable. Make yourself at home. Oh, and all my DVD's are on the shelf beside the TV. Pick out whatever you want to watch and I'll be back in a second."

"Okay, thanks!"

Ferryn returned downstairs less then ten minutes later wearing a blue and white pair of cotton drawstring pants and a gray tank top that hugged her body. Her face had been washed free of the make up she'd worn earlier but her hair still remained high on the top of her head in a pony tail.

Tom turned to glance at her and smiled. She looked adorable.

"Well, don't you look cute." He grinned at her as he kicked off his shoes and wiggling his toes.

"Ha, I wish!" She said as she rolled her eyes. She took a seat beside him on the comfy black sofa.

"You have to know you're cute, Ferryn."

Ferryn raised an eye brow at him, looking like she was thinking intensely. "Not all the time but thank you for reminding me, Tom."

"Anytime." He wrapped an arm around her shoulders and squeezed gently once. "I picked out a movie. I hope it's okay with you."

"If I own it, I doubt I'll have a problem with it." She laughed.

"Well then, let's get this show on the road." Tom said as he pushed play on the remote that he'd picked up from the coffee table.

"Yes sir, Mr. Kaulitz." Ferryn stated receiving a chuckle from him.

They had been watching the movie for maybe twenty minutes when the phone in the kitchen began to ring loudly. Ferryn got up and walked quickly to answer it as Tom continued to watch the movie.

When Ferryn hung up the receiver, she looked in the direction of the couch. She coughed loudly and crossed her hands over her chest in question and determination.

"Um, what do you think you're doing, Tom?" She asked. He was now taking up the entire couch. His long body was now laying the length of the couch.

He looked around confused, mischief playing on his chiseled face. "What do you mean, Miss Phillips?"

"I mean your skinny ass has taken up the couch!" She laughed and kicked at one of his socked feet hanging over the edge.

"There's still room." He said patting the small space beside him and raising his eyebrows.

Ferryn rolled her eyes again. "Whatever, skinny man. I'll just make myself comfortable." She stood in front of him before carefully plopping down right on his stomach and bringing her legs up cross-legged. "Right about here."

She broke into a fit of giggles as Tom made an exasperated noise that was mixed with shock and his airway being compromised. "Well then, make yourself at home."

"I did, thank you. Now what happened in the movie while I was gone?"

"Uh, don't you own it?"

"Well, yes but it's been forever since I've seen this one."

Tom groaned loudly. "Cramp in my arm! Can you just?" He said as he pulled his arm out from behind Ferryn. She lost her balance and went toppling down into the small crack of space between Tom and the couch.

"Ugh, I think I'm stuck. Could you please move?" She asked looking up at him with amused eyes.

"No. You're going to have to stay there. It's the rules. It's what you get for sitting on me."

"You took the couch! It wasn't my fault that I can't see the TV well if I sit in another chair."

"Well, are you comfortable?" He asked putting an arm around her back casually as she was pressed up against him sideways.

"I guess." She mumbled.

"Good, then you're staying put."

"Fine, Mr. Bossy pants." Ferryn said as she settled her head on his shoulder and continued to watch the movie.

"Whatever, Sassy pants." He mocked.

"You're such a dork, Tom." She laughed, laying her hand on his chest in an attempt to get comfortable.

"Like you're not!" He said poking her side and turning his head back to the movie.

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

The ending credits were coming across the screen and Ferryn blinked tired eyes in its direction. Rumpled and her muscles feeling stiff, she tried to move to loosen her aching bones.

"Nice of you to wake up." Came a male voice.

"Whatever! I was awake the whole time!"

"Is that why theirs drool on my shirt?" Tom laughed.

Ferryn pulled back mortified, searching his shirt. When she found nothing resembling his accusation, she punched his arm hard. "You liar! Don't do that to me!"

Tom laughed and sat up. "Had you for a second."

"Yeah, yeah. You're just so smooth."

He stretched his arms over his head and turned to her while yawning. "So I've been told." He winked playfully. Ferryn rolled her eyes and it was then that Tom remembered how the rumors of his 'playboy ways' and smooth stories with women are what had drawn her away from him. "I'm kidding, Ferryn. Stop thinking bad things."

She stood upright and walked toward the kitchen, Tom right behind her. "I'm not. What you do with women isn't my business."

"Well just know I'm not like that, okay? I can be a good guy."

"I know this. You have nothing to prove to me. It's not like you're knocking down doors trying to get to me or anything silly like that."

Damn. What if he wanted to?

"Any man would be lucky to have you, sweetheart."

She smiled up at him as she reached for an apple on the counter. "Want anything to eat? When was the last time you ate anyway? You're going to waste away to nothing, Tom. I could make you something."

"Calm down. I ate on the plane earlier this afternoon, I guess and I promise I wont waste away but just in case, what were you going to make me?"

"What would you like?" She challenged, opening the fridge and scanning it quickly. "It's kind of late and the fridge is a little on the bare side. Is PB&J alright?"

"Sounds good. I'm still on LA time."

Ferryn got the bread out and went to the cupboards to grab the peanut butter to began making his sandwich. Tom stepped beside her and tried to wait for her to hand him the knife but she continued her task.

"Ferryn, I can make it myself."

"It's not Pop Tarts. Who knows what could happen if I let you take over!" She stuck her tongue out at him.

"Woman, I can make more than Pop Tarts. I was kidding."

"Yeah, right. But you're a guest in my house. Don't worry about it. Want to go check out the balcony?"

He nodded and smiled as she handed him a paper plate with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on it. He watched her clean up the mess she'd made.

"Sure and thank you." He said as he kissed her cheek graciously and took a huge bite. He followed her toward the glass doors.

"You're welcome." Ferryn smiled as she opened the doors and waited for Tom to join her at her favorite place.

"The view out here is amazing!"

Ferryn beamed up at him. "I love it here. I love all balcony's but this-" She gestured to the view. "Is my favorite place ever."

"I was starting to notice you had a thing for these but I didn't say anything. I can see why though. Very peaceful and serene."

"Yes, call me weird but I have a thing for balconies. Everyone has their place." She turned from her spot over the solid railing. "Shit, Tom, did you inhale that thing?" Ferryn questioned as she watched him shove the entire other half of his sandwich in his mouth in one bite.

Tom tried his best to swallow before he spoke again. "I'm a growing boy! I can't help it." He said, wiping his mouth with the napkin she'd given him earlier. He took a seat in one of the thickly patted lounge chairs that were sitting on the deck.

"I bet." Ferryn laughed as she sat down beside him in her own chair.

"So how long have you lived here?" He asked casually.

"A little over four years. My grandma and grandpa owned this building and they left it to me when they died. I used to come with them to check up on things and fix up stuff. My grandma would always either find me dancing around the openness or sitting on the balcony on the floor in my little dresses and saddle shoes. She said I always had the biggest smile on my face when she'd find me. This was one of the best things I've been given."

"Wow, that's generous of them."

"Yeah. Think how mad my brother and sister were when they got the short end of the stick." She grinned wickedly.

"Something tells me they weren't left empty handed."

"You're right. So tell me something about you now?"

"I get at least four more questions before it's my turn."

Ferryn looked confused. "Okay?"

"Describe yourself in 3 words."

Ferryn didn't hesitate before she answered confidently. "Artistic, loving and easy going."

"That's four words but I'd have to agree." Tom smiled. "Um, if you weren't a photographer or songwriter, what would you see yourself doing?"

"Something else with music maybe. Music therapy has always been a thought."

"Sounds like you'd be good at it too."

"Thanks. I truly believe it's the drug everyone fails to see sometimes."

"You're probably right. Best accomplishment in life?"

"Probably living on my own and supporting myself. It sounds lame but it was something I always feared growing up. After that, selling my first song maybe. I was amazed someone wanted to pay me for something I enjoy so much."

"Both very good things to be proud of and I've heard and seen your work, Ferryn. It stands alone in the talent field."

"Thank you, Tom. You're always so kind when it comes to my work."

He looked over at her. Her eyes was shinning and her lips were turned up in a smile. He grabbed her hand from the short distance between them and squeezed it once before letting it go. "I mean it too. You have the potential to go big places."

"I hope I'm ready."

"You will be." He winked. "Okay, I have two more. Let's see here. Oh! If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?"

"Just one? Let me see. I just wish everyone would be happy. People often lose site of it and I know that the world isn't full of rainbows and sunshine but I think people often forget to how to truly be happy and put in the effort to get there."

"I like you, Ferryn Phillips." Tom said, smiling slightly as he put his hands behind his head and crossed his legs on the lounge chair.

"I like you too." Ferryn smirked. "Oh and it's my turn."

"Let's have em!"

"What one place do you let all your problems go and feel completely at ease?"

"Oh, that's a good one. But that'd be in my studio. I love fiddling with everything in there and making music. Writing it, fixing it, perfecting it. There are no words to describe it. It's just in my blood. At the end of the day, it's where I want to be." Tom spoke seriously, his eyes far off somewhere else as he used his hands to help his voice.

"Once again, we can relate."

"Don't you see? We're destined for one another." He joked sarcastically.

"Oh, Tom! I'm so glad you figured it out. I've been waiting for you catch on!" Ferryn sat up and began her dramatic ramble. "We will be so happy together! Take me now, you handsome stud." Ferryn said as she threw herself into his lap and threw her arms around his shoulders.

Tom's laughter was continuous as he shook his head. "Over kill, Ferryn. You're hurting my ego, once again." He said and jokingly swatted her butt as she pushed off of him.

She was quickly in front of his face starring intently at his lips. "Um, can I help you?" Tom asked in question.

"You just, um- You have peanut butter on your lip." She said laughing quietly.

Tom immediately brought a hand up to his lips and quickly wiped them off. "Did I get it all?"

Ferryn grabbed his jaw and inspected it closely. "Yeah. Looks that way."

"You wanted to kiss it off me, didn't you?"

Ferryn threw her head back and laughed, her voice loud in the quiet night air. "How did you know? That was suppose to be my secret! I love making out with gorgeous producers!"

Tom took hold of her wrist gently and his touch forced her to look at him. "I still have one more question."

Ferryn couldn't come up with anything sarcastic or witty at the moment. He smelled so good. "And?" She asked her brows coming together in anticipation.

"When was the last time you had a bone melting kiss that made the world and everything around you stop?"

Ferryn swallowed hard. "Um, that's a little deep, isn't it?"

He could feel her tense a little. "Maybe. You don't have to answer if you don't want to."

"No, it's fine. It's just been a really long time. I'm not sure I remember it exactly."

Tom noted that her eyes took a new demeanor of sadness. "That's not right. I'm sorry if I dug up something. I won't do it again."

"No, stop apologizing. We're friends right?" At his nod, she continued. "It's just kind of complicated. I kind of miss it, that's all. It's been a while since I've let myself get lost in another man."

Silence suddenly filled their small space of openness.

"Are you up for the challenge? Strictly as a friend helping out a friend?"

Ferryn gasped. "Are you serious?" She sat up from Tom's lap, suddenly feeling too close. Moving to the small space of the lounge chair at his side, she felt better with distance.

"As a heart attack but only if you want."

She tucked a lose strand of hair behind her ear and was suddenly nervous. All sarcastic comments left aside, she decided to give it a go. "Okay. If you want."

"Okay then."

Tom watched her carefully, thinking she was going to pull back at any second and run back into the loft but she didn't. He leaned forward as she met him half way as their lips met in a gentle collide. Tom pulled back slightly before going in once more, this time deepening it. At the sound of the moan that escaped Ferryn's lips, he slipped his tongue across the seam of her lips asking permission to take it further. When she obliged, he pushed his tongue inside carefully touching and tasting with hers. Tom's hands cupped her face carefully as he took control of kiss. Ferryn's hands dove into his braids, holding on and pressing herself against his chest. He snaked one of his hands to her side, skin meeting skin where her tank top had ridden up exposing the soft flesh of her hip. At the warm shock of his hand, Ferryn pulled back, gasping heavily.

She looked at Tom with confused eyes. She took in his red and swollen lips, thinking hers looked very much the same. It took her a minute to find her words. "Wow."

Tom laughed quietly sitting up. He tried not look like he'd just basked in a really great make out session. "Wow is right."

"Did we just wreck what friendship we had?" She asked suddenly looking regretful.

"No, we didn't. Not if we don't let it." He reached up to cup her face and tucked an escaping strand of hair behind her ears. "We're just two friends who were curious and went for something. We satisfied a long overdue need. Nothing more. It's called living in the moment."

"You're right." She stood up and went to gaze out over the balcony for a few minutes before returning to her chaise lounge. "You never answered your own question."

"My own question?" He asked, confused.

She waved her hand in the air uselessly. "About what just happened. About who was the last person to, you know..." She trailed off.

"I thought my answer was pretty clear a second ago." He laughed gently.

Ferryn winked flirtatiously at him, proud of his answer. "Okay, my turn for more questions. What's your favorite color?"

"Oh, digging deep now, huh?" He snickered. "But it's red, I guess."

"I figured it might be. If you could have one super power, what would it be?"

He thought for a moment before answering. "X-ray vision might be nice."

Ferryn rolled her eyes. "Perv."

"I'm kidding, Ferryn. I think it'd be cool to be able to fly."

"Okay, that's better. Guilty pleasure?"

"Um, video games, I guess."

"That doesn't seem so guilty."

"Okay then, junk food."

Ferryn looked at him like he'd just told the biggest lie. "Can I get a 'yeah right' for one hundred please? Where the heck does it all go, Tom?"

He laughed as he patted his stomach. "Whatever. It goes here."

"You're like as skinny as they come!"

"I guess I just burn it off somehow."

"Lucky! Favorite kind of ice cream?"

"Lemon but it's hard to find so probably anything Ben & Jerry's."

Ferryn grinned widely "Ahh. I see our friendship growing stronger. Ben & Jerry's has one of my favorite flavors of all time."

"And that would be?"

"Cinnamon buns. I might give my last dollar for it. It's sex in a pint." She said seriously.

Tom laughed. "That good? I don't know if I've ever tried it but I think I might need to. I don't think I've ever heard someone compare sex to ice cream."

"I promise it won't let you down!"

"Well, only if you promise." Tom smirked.

Ferryn yawed so big that her jaw cracked and couldn't help but to look guilty and as she laughed at herself. Tom did the same. "Is it someone's bed time?" He asked, raising an eyebrow.

"No. I'm fine."

Tom glanced at his watch. It had already reached the early morning hours. Still on California time, he tried to tell his body that he had to be up for the studio in only a few hours. "Actually, I need to get back to the hotel and get some sleep. I have to be up for the studio in less then six hours."

"You could have stayed here, Tom. You don't have to stay at a hotel. I have an extra bedroom."

"Thank you, Ferryn, but I know you keep a busy schedule and didn't want to interfere with that. It would have ruined my surprise too."

They both stood and walked back into the loft. Tom stopped by the couch to put his shoes back on. As they walked to the door, Ferryn wrapped an arm around his slim waist before looking up at him. "Thank you for coming, Tom. I'm glad you're here."

He looked down, smiling and kissed her forehead before reaching for the door handle. "I'm glad I came too, Ferryn. I had fun tonight."

Ferryn blushed quickly, feeling the heat in her cheeks rise at the wink he gave with his confession. She'd be lying to herself if she didn't agree. "Call me when you're done in the studio. I'll talk you around the city."

"I'd like that Ferryn and I will."

"Will you be alright getting a cab?"

"Yes. I'm a big boy." He teased.

"Well, fine then." She sassed back, joking with him. "Goodnight, Tom."

He opened the door and leaned forward, hugging her quickly. "Night, Ferryn. I'll call soon."

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

Ferryn was busying herself in her weekly tasks as she always did. Since her surprise visit from Tom, she'd been overwhelmed and distracted all at the same time. His sudden presence in her life had her mind whirling and contemplating the simplest things all at once. She'd be lying if she said she wasn't waiting for his call to say he was done in the studio but she hadn't wanted to bother him while creating music. The man was working and Ferryn didn't want to ruin that.

The night he left, Ferryn found it oddly hard to sleep in the comfort of her own bed. Her mind quickly flashed back to Tom's challenge, as he so charmingly put it. His lips felt exactly like she expected them to. Soft but firm and more inviting as each second passed. To make matters worse, the masculine scent of him had lingered on her pajamas and thoughts of him crept into her mind as she slept. She decided it was pointless to will away any traces of him and she finally found slumber hours later that night.

Each day Ferryn spent with Tom, she'd tried to open her mind a little bit more to who he really was as a person. Her conscience still regretted the way she'd treated him when they first met but she also found it useless to hold onto something in the past. She'd never forget the look in his eyes the night he'd walked out of her hotel room and left her feeling like the biggest jerk in the world. She tasted the bitterness of her words as she swallowed thickly. Since then, he didn't openly give deep down details to his love life but Ferryn enjoyed learning more about him each time they spoke. Refusing to analyze her feelings for him, she simply enjoyed his friendship and their shared love for music. He brought a sense of comfort to her life. As time went by, Ferryn began to tuck parts of her past a little more where they belonged - in her past - and it seemed a little easier to breath.

Truth be told, the fact that he was in her hometown and would be calling sometime in the near future seemed to make her work breeze by. Ferryn couldn't wait to share Greenville and the best things she found in life with Tom and see what he thought. She knew he'd appreciate it for what it was. Two days after his surprise visit, his call came just as she was coming back from her morning workout.

"Hello?" Ferryn asked as she reached for a bottle of water from the fridge.

"Hi. Sorry this took longer than I thought but we've been working non-stop. I meant to call you sooner."

Ferryn laughed as she swallowed a big drink of her water. "It's fine, Tom. You have nothing to apologize for. I take it that it went well?"

"Yes. The vibes were great. I really enjoyed myself."

"Good, I'm glad." She smiled, even though he couldn't see. His talk on music always made her feel like they shared a connection.

"Me too. So how have you been? Like I said, I had planned to call sooner. I hope I didn't stop you from working on anything."

"No, don't even think that. I've been good. Finishing up some things here and there. Finished my last album shoot for a while so that's a good feeling."

"I'm glad. So yeah, I'm finished for the rest of my stay in Greenville if you wanted to get together."

"Yes! I want to take you to a few places. I'm excited!"

Tom could hear the smile in Ferryn's voice as she spoke and it warmed him from head to toe. "Name the time and place and I'll be there." He said.

"How about I pick you up at your hotel? Say 10:30?" She questioned.

"Sounds good. I'm in room 1107."

"Okay, see you in a bit. Bye!"

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

Dressed in her usual low rise jeans, a tank top and flip flops, Ferryn walked down the hallway of the classy hotel until she found Tom's room and knocked lightly.

She heard the faint sounds of rustling around and laughed quietly as she heard Tom curse loudly. Her smile quickly faded as he opened the door clad in nothing but a towel secured around his slender hips. At that moment, Ferryn forgot her own name.

"Sorry. I'm running a little behind. My brother called and wouldn't stop rambling about something that happened last night so I lost track of time. Come in and I'll be ready in just a minute."

Ferryn continued to stare. Her eyes were drawn to the masculine chest in front of her. It had been far to long since she'd had a beautiful male body for her viewing pleasure. She drank in every dip and curve of his muscular stomach and chest, to each vein that ran along his well defined arms. Her eyes moved south to the small trail of hair that dusted his lower abdomen and lead to -

"Ferryn?" He asked with a smirk.

Shit. How long have I been staring?

Ferryn cleared her throat and blinked quickly before gathering herself. There was no way to recover from that. "Shit. Tom, I'm sorry."

Tom laughed and stepped aside, allowing her in his hotel suite. "It's okay. I knew you were checking me out. I'm hard to resist." He winked.

Ferryn didn't even pretend to deny his accusation. Still her sassy persona made its appearance. "Well it's not every day I open the door to a half naked man behind it. I am human." She emphasized.

"Don't I know it." He laughed. "Have a seat. I'll be done in five minutes."

Ferryn nodded and took a seat on the couch in his suite. The room was beautiful with modern decor that overlooked the city. Still trying to clear her memory Tom's naked flesh, her mind had very little time to recover as he stepped out of the bedroom. Dressed in a pair of loose fitting black jeans and a blue T-shirt that hung loosely over his chest, she found herself staring once more. His matching blue sneakers completed look he had going on, along with the large sunglasses that sat on top of his head. He slid his wallet and hotel key into his pants pocket.

Tom walked casually over and plopped down on the couch next to Ferryn. Her curious gaze following him. "You're doing it again." He remarked playfully.

"I'm sorry. You just- You look good."

"Seriously? What the hell is going on?" Ferryn asked herself. "Caught starring, or drooling more like it, twice within a ten minute span! This can't be good. What has come over me?" And to top it off, the second he'd sat down, the woodsy scent of his cologne overtook her senses and her heart skipped a beat.

"You're not so bad yourself." He replied playfully.

Ferryn found herself grinning flirtatiously. She opened herself up to their constant banter and fed off it. They walked to the hotel room door and she opened it as Tom followed close behind. "Okay, Kaulitz, where to first?"

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

Ferryn walked through the endless racks of clothes and tried to find Tom in between it all. Taking him shopping on Greenville Boulevard had been a good idea until he decided he was in a shopping mood. Happy to oblige in his sort-of-vacation shopping spree, she tagged along and enjoyed herself. She finally found him searching through a rack of jackets. He held one out triumphantly as he awaited Ferryn's opinion. "What do you think?"

"What the hell is that?" She asked, her face full of confusion and disgust.

"It's a jacket, Ferryn." He laughed.

"It looks like a jacket with a tail and a sweater attached to it."

Tom looked disappointed but laughed a little. "So is that a no?"

"It's up to you, Tom. I'm just here to give my opinion." Ferryn said as she moved on to a rack of jeans.

He sighed and put the jacket back on the rack and moved towards her. "It's a no. I can take a hint. Bill would have liked it."

"Hey, you wear what you want. It's none of my business."

"I value your opinion." He said as he placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Why thank you. It's very important you consult me on your fashion choices to prevent a disaster."

He laughed as they continued through the store. "Did you become a fashion expert overnight too?" He said rolling his eyes playfully.

"No. I really don't care what people wear as long as they're comfortable. I just draw the line when one of my friends wants to wear something that looks... well, like that did." She said as she grinned at Tom.

"Yeah yeah. Where to next?"

"Have I killed the shopping vibe?" She asked as she walked towards the counter to pay for the T-shirts she'd found. Tom stood beside her, waiting to do the same.

"No. I just know you were really excited to show me your home and I'm excited to see it. I can shop anytime in LA."

"Very true. I haven't decided where to take you next. But you're enjoying yourself?" She questioned.

He smiled at her genuinely, his deep brown eyes holding with hers. "I'm having the best time. I'm glad I came."

His eyes melted into hers and she tried to ignore the little flip flop her heart did as he smiled softly at her. Ferryn couldn't help but notice that when she was around Tom, she felt as though her world made sense. From all the bad she'd heard about him, none of it seemed to be true. She was glad he'd come into her life.

She pushed away her thoughts and confusion and smiled back at him. He took his bags from the counter and looped his arm through hers as they exited the store. "I'm glad you came too."

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

Ferryn took Tom everywhere, sharing her favorite parts and pieces of Greenville. She saw a new side of him that day, little bits of an inner child peeking through. He was always willing to goof off and laugh with her, ignoring who was overlooking or giving them strange looks. He seemed to enjoy her sense of home and she was happy about that. There final stop for the day had ended at one of her favorite spots, a rarity in her life that she actually shared with anyone.

As time ticked by, Ferryn found herself questioning Tom more and more than she felt comfortable doing. Part of her felt she was on the verge or ruining her career since he was such a huge part of what she did. She feared the people that worked in the business but something else in her saw a lonely side to him. They seemed to compliment one another and for once, she decided to take his advice from their chat on her balcony and just live in the moment and not question everything so much. So that's what Ferryn did or tried hard to do.

Her hair blew softly in the breeze of the Greenville night air as she leaned her elbows on the bridge that over looked the river. Ferryn took a deep breath, engrossed in the smell of summer at night in the city. Opening her eyes, she looked over at Tom who seemed to be equally lost in the sights before him.

"What do you think?" She asked softly, tucking a piece of hair behind her ear.

He turned to her smiling. "I love it. I can see why you love your home town so much."

"I do. I come here when I need to think. I actually wrote a song here once. Several have been written after coming here. It seems to clear my head for some reason. It has a sense of calmness. The air, the breeze. It all puts things into perspective for me. One of nature's little simplicities."

"You know what I love about you?" He asked turning towards her, his hand coming to cup her cheek casually.

Her breathing sped up a little by his touch. "No, what?"

"You love the simple things in life. You appreciate several things for what they are. I've also noticed you have a carefree sense about you. It's something to admire, Ferryn."

She smiled. "Thanks. I love life and living it. You only get to do it once. Why not enjoy it?"

He took his hand down from her cheek and rested it on her shoulder before sliding it over her back and around her shoulders to pull her against him. Without even thinking, Ferryn rested her head on his shoulder as he leaned down and kissed her forehead.

Turning as best as she could, she looked up at him. "You're a good guy, Tom. I mean it. I'm sorry I misjudged you."

"The past is what it is. No sense in looking back but if it's any consolation, thank you. You mean a lot to me, Ferryn. You have helped repair little parts of my heart."

"You've done the same for me." She turned and smiled at him. Her eyes shined as the cool air whipped across her face. Taking a deep breath and a huge leap of faith, Ferryn continued carefully. "I'm sorry she hurt you, Tom. She obviously didn't know a good guy when she saw one."

At first he looked at her confused, wondering how she knew. She could see the wheels turning in his head. "How did- Who told you?"

"Sam mentioned something."

He nodded slowly before smiling with sad but grateful eyes. He sighed and contemplated his words before he continued. "You're right, Ferryn."

"You deserved better. I'm just sorry you had to go through that. You're such a great guy."

"I loved her with everything in me. I must have been pretty stupid. What hurt the most was having to find out from a fucking tabloid that someone you picture your entire life with is sleeping with someone else. I was so blind, so stupid."

Ferryn wrapped her arms around his neck. "You're not stupid, Tom. She was too selfish to accept your love in the first place. Everything happens for a reason."

He nodded, laying his forehead on her shoulder. He breathed in the scent of her soft skin, cooled by the chill of summer. "I haven't dated since then. I miss the little things of being in love." He looked up through glassy eyes.

Ferryn's heart thudded against her chest a little. "Exactly what is he getting at?"

"I'm here, Tom. Whenever for whatever. Hugs, a shoulder, random kissing challenges." Ferryn said. She was very serious but added the last part to make him laugh.

His head snapped up and she could tell with the smile that spread across his lips that she'd just opened up a can of worms. "Random kissing challenges, huh?" He smirked, as he turned towards her. He backed her against the railing as his hands went directly to her hips.

She laughed and rolled her eyes. "I was trying to make you laugh."

"I believe you just spouted off options and I get to choose one. And I believe I'd like to go with-"

"I was kidding, Tom." Ferryn said but her eyes immediately darted to his lips.

"You mean you haven't thought about the other night at all?"

"Um, maybe. Maybe not." She lied.

"Am I a bad kisser?" He asked as his hands still rested casually on her hips.

"You know the answer to that."

"Then what's the problem?"

"I'm not in any condition to analyze things right now. It's not as if I could kiss you and just forget about it. This has nothing to do with friends playing some silly little game.We surpassed that the other night."

"Who's asking you to forget it, Ferryn?"

"I don't know. I just- It's just that-"

He pulled her closer and tipped her chin up to his face, inching closer as his breath skated over her cheek softly. "Just what, Ferryn?"

She swallowed thickly. Her eyes focused on his lips, how close they were and how soft they felt before. "I don't take random kisses lightly. I'm not one of those girls."

"I know you're not. I don't take random kisses lightly either." He pulled her closer to him. His hands inched up the small of her back.

Her skin shivered beneath his touch. "It's just-" The words on her lips suddenly faltered and she couldn't continue.

"Just what? Tell me." He asked, his dark eyes staring fiercely into hers.

Her mind was suddenly blank and all arguments set aside. Ferryn lost all train of thought and went with the first thing that came out of mouth. "Just nothing."

She waited a half a second before his lips moved the short distance and brushed over hers softly. The hand on her back came up to her neck to hold her still as he continued with the gentle brushes. He ran the tip of his tongue just underneath her top lip. Ferryn wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. Her lips were full participants in his little game.

His kisses became hungrier and he casually slipped his tongue inside the softness of her mouth. Her tongue immediately brushed against his. Their lips continued fervently, their tongues mating against one another in a rhythmic dance, until finally air seemed scarce and they pulled back panting. Breathing deeply, Tom never released his hold on Ferryn and his forehead rested against hers. His warm breath flitted over her neck is what shook her from the sexual haze of his lips. He spoke softly, almost in a whisper. "Tell me why this feels so good, Ferryn. So right.."

She looked up at him. Her green eyes lingered with confusion. "I don't know, Tom. I wish I knew myself. But-" She started to continue but his lips halted her as he whispered against her cheek.

"There's always a but. Don't think so much. Just live in the moment."

"I'm trying. There are just some things from my past that I have yet to let go of completely. Some things I have to sort out in my head. I'm sorry."

Tom nodded. He tried to hide the disappointment he felt deep inside. He released his hold on her and took a step back, trying to calm his racing heart and the tingle in his lips. "It's fine, Ferryn." She could hear the obvious disappointment in his voice.

"Tom, I mean it- There's something I have to-"

"Great timing." Ferryn thought annoyed, as her cell phone rang loudly. "Where the hell did I put it?" She tried desperately to dig it out of her back pocket that suddenly seemed deeper than the length of her hand. "Shit, I can't get it." She cursed as it continued to ring loudly and obnoxiously.

Tom took a step forward and snaked a hand around her waste. His large hand dug in the slim pocket on her butt. He skillfully pulled the silver object free and couldn't help but bite his tongue as he read the name that flashed brightly across it.

Ferryn smiled gratefully and snatched her phone up quickly. She hoped to answer it before it went to voice mail. She stepped away from Tom, trying to make her voice sound something close to normal. The tremble she felt had subsided by then.

Tom watched her curiously, wondering what the hell had just happened. It seemed he'd gone from sharing an important part of himself with her, to joking around about a kiss, to reliving it once again. The more he kissed her, the more he craved the taste of her lips. The more he found himself addicted to Ferryn Phillips, a women who wouldn't give him the time of day at their first meeting.

Each time he spoke with her, he saw a new side of her and caught a new piece of her personality that drew him to her like moths to a flame. He didn't know every little detail about her but he was getting there at a safe and steady pace and he was fine with that. Tom never expected his trip to Greenville to turn into what it had but he hoped they'd be able to put things into perspective. He hoped that he'd learn about whatever was holding Ferryn back. And right now, the one thing Tom really hoped to know was the relationship between the woman he'd just kissed and the man on the other end of the phone.

Before he could think any deeper into the situation, Tom turned to see Ferryn walking back to him. A half smile lay across the gentle features of her face. "Do you still want to go back to the loft? I know it's late but I did promise I'd make you at least one dinner while you were here and grace you with my culinary skills."

Tom looked up. He was confused that the conversation about "them" - if there was or ever would be a "them" - was over. She didn't want to talk about it and he'd have to respect that. He couldn't help the nagging hunch that whomever was on the phone had changed her demeanor. He decided to make light of the mood and he smiled gratefully. "You mean peanut butter and jelly again?" He teased.

Ferryn laughed and grabbed Tom's hand. She tugged him along with her as they headed in the direction of home. Once they began walking, all tension seemed to be set aside but Tom never let go of Ferryn's hand. Ferryn didn't protest. They continued walking, cracking jokes along the way and taking in the hustle of the city at night in the process.

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

Tom pat his stomach loudly, doing his best to make it stick out and give the affect that he was full. "I do believe you've out done yourself, Ferryn. That's one of the best meals I've had in a long time."

She turned from the sink and smiled at him, gracious for his praise. "Why thank you, Tom. I'm glad I could dazzle you with more than peanut butter and jelly."

He stood and gathered the dishes from the table, meeting Ferryn and placing the dirty dishes carefully into the soapy water of the sink. Tom looked at her "comfy" attire, as she had called it. Loose fitting black sweats that sat low on her hips and a tight gray T-shirt. Feeling as if the awkward tension had flowed from the night, he bumped his hip into hers and winked when she laughed at him.

"Watch yourself, Kaulitz."

"Oh, I'm watching, Miss Phillips." He mocked back. He turned to grab the glasses they'd used at dinner.

"Tom, you don't need to help. Take a glass of wine and go relax." She said as she pushed him away gently. Ferryn had insisted that when they got home that he join her in dressing "comfy" and offered him a pair of her brothers plaid pajama pants and a loose fitting T-shirt. He looked adorable.

"I want to help. You made this amazing meal. It's the least I can do."

"If you insist. Can you grab that bowl for me please?" She took the bowl from Tom's hands and placed it in the sink before she began to wash it. Once it was rinsed and dried, Ferryn walked over to a cabinet at the corner of the kitchen and reached up to set it inside. All the while Tom's eyes were glued to the part of her exposed stomach where her shirt had ridden up. He swallowed and didn't even feel his feet move up behind her. He grabbed the bowl from her hands and set it inside the cabinet for her.

Ferryn gasped in surprise as she felt the hard press of his body against her back side. Coming off of her tip toes, she grabbed the counter top to steady herself. She turned and found herself standing inches from Tom's face. His expression wasn't hard to read. "Thanks."

His lips turned up in a smile but he still didn't move. "You're welcome." Tom leaned forward and placed a hand on either side of the counter top behind Ferryn. He left his arms spread wide enough that if she wanted to make an escape, she could. Time ticked away and her body never moved an inch.

He leaned forward. His lips were a mere breath from hers as he asked an important question. "Do I make you nervous, Ferryn?"

She swallowed hard, her eyes never leaving his. "No."

He nodded slightly and came a little closer. "Do you want me to take a step back?" He asked.

She shook her head no but didn't move.

"Do you want me to kiss you again, Ferryn?"

He watched her hesitate for a second before she nodded her head yes. Tom didn't falter. He knew this was the last thing they should be doing without talking about things but he decided to just go for it and act on the feelings he had for his new found friend. He leaned forward, cupping her jaw in his hand as his lips touched hers cautiously at first. When she made no move of protest, he kissed her deeply. His tongue teased the seam of her lips right away. She opened graciously and gasped in pleasure. Her hands had moved up to his chest where she was ran them up and down his rigid abdomen cautiously. One of his hands grasped her hip and tugged her tightly against him as his tongue stroked her mouth in a heated frenzy.

Ferryn cried out in surprise as she felt herself being lifted off the ground and set on the counter top. Tom made himself comfortable in between her legs. She quickly wrapped her legs around his waist as he grinded himself against her. She could feel the hardness of him growing quickly. His lips moved from hers and went directly for her neck, nipping and then soothing the bites with his tongue. Ferryn titled her head to give him better access as her hands pulled gently on his braids. His hand ran up her side, barely grazing the side of her breast as Ferryn moaned loudly. "Tom-"

He continued his torture as his lips moved quickly from her neck to outline the top her shirt. His tongue worked on the swell of her breasts as his hand came up just underneath the hem where he ran his fingers across her belly. He almost didn't hear her call his name until her hands stilled. "What?" He asked, attacking her neck once more.

"We-" She gasped. His hand inched higher up under her shirt and his fingers danced on her nerve endings. "We need to talk."

Tom stilled and let out a groan in frustration. He hooked his chin over her shoulder and took a deep breath, calming himself as best as he could. He placed three more kisses, starting with her shoulder, moving to her jaw bone and finally placing the last one softly on her lips before he looked into her eyes.

"You're right. I'm sorry." He confessed.

Ferryn grabbed his face between her hands, rubbing her thumbs over Tom's kissed swollen lips, and smiled sadly. "Don't be sorry, Tom. Just understand why I'm doing this."

He nodded and backed away from her. He grasped her hand and giving her room to slide off the counter. "Does this have anything to do with Hunter?"

She looked up at him, almost feeling like she'd hidden something from him. It didn't seem so relevant until that moment. "Yes and no."

"I guess we start from the top?" He suggested.

Ferryn nodded and walked into the living room. She plopped herself down on the couch. Tom followed suit but sat at the other end anxiously awaiting her answer. She took a deep breath and put on a brave front as she began her explanation. "My boyfriend was killed in a car accident a little over two years ago, Tom."

"I'm so sorry, Ferryn. I had no idea. I-"

"Just let me finish, okay?" At his nod, she continued. "I was a half a second from being engaged to him before he died. My world turned upside down. I'm just now getting the pieces back together."

He reached over and grabbed her hand. He noticed the tears swimming in her eyes as she willed them not to fall. "I'm so sorry." She sniffled a little. He felt like a jerk but he had to know. "And Hunter?" He swallowed slowly.

"Hunter was his best friend. He was driving the car that he and Austin were in. He obviously survived and guilt has eaten at him ever since. He has looked after me. He has become a really good friend."

"He seemed a little more friendly than just a friend."

Ferryn knew she should feel offended but nodded. "He has tried to become more but I brushed him off. I welcome his generosity wholeheartedly but anything beyond that I feel would be betrayal against Austin. Plus, I'm just not attracted to him like that."

Tom scooted closer toward her on the wide couch. He ran a thumb under her eyes as a few tears flooded over. "I'm so sorry you had to go through that, Ferryn. No one deserves that. I'm sorry I pushed myself on you. I won't do it ag-"

Ferryn looked up into his guilty, sorry eyes and placed a finger over his lips. "Hush, Tom. You have nothing to apologize for. I'm just not sure how to go about giving my heart to someone again. I know it's been two years but it's just going to take me a while to get the swing of this again... trusting someone. This whole song writing thing has become my saving grace. I never planned to meet you and I especially didn't plan on it ending up like this."

"You have a lot to give. I see it in you all the time but I understand. I'll be here. When you're ready, I'll be here."

"I just don't want to be a notch on a bed post, Tom. Not saying that's what you're about but I'm going to have reservations. I need to know that this isn't some 'spur of the moment' experiment thing for you."

He grabbed her hand, lacing their fingers together and kissed her knuckles. "It isn't. I feel something between us. Besides the hot make out sessions." He smirked.

She nodded. "Thank you, Tom. I'm sorry I'm still a mess about things. You're a good guy though."

"You're welcome, Ferryn."

"I assume that since it's so late that you're planning on staying over for a slumber party?" She asked smirking and standing up off the couch.

He looked around before laughing slightly. "Of course I'll attend the slumber party." At his confirmation, she held her hand out to him which he readily accepted. She pulled him up the spiral staircase to her bedroom.

"Um, Ferryn?" He asked as she pulled the covers back.

"Yeah?"

"Where am, um- I mean- We're sleeping- I mean- I'm sleeping with you?"

"If you want to. I'm not offering anything else at the moment besides a sleeping partner but if you're game-"

He came up behind her and kissed her cheek before turning off the lamp and crawling into bed, his arms open and waiting for her. "You don't have to explain anything. If you want me here, this is where I want to be."

She crawled into her king sized bed and snuggled against his awaiting arms as they wrapped around her tightly. Ferryn snuggled her head against his shoulder and breathed deep. "Thank you, Tom. You always seem to know what I need without me even having to say the words. You heal me."

Tom kissed her forehead softly, rubbing his hands up and down her arms as he held her. "I think we heal each other." He said before he closed his eyes.

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

The sunrise shone brightly through the large windows of the loft as morning made its bold appearance. Tom peeked an eye open and immediately covered his face, trying to block out the brightness. He shifted carefully and looked down at the soft weight pressed against him. He smiled. Ferryn lay nestled against his side. Her face was pressed carefully into his neck as one leg lay carefully in between his. Tom's arm was draped across her waist, holding her close to him. He took in a deep breath and smiled as he ran a hand up her warm back. She stirred a little and before he knew it, long lashes had opened up to reveal green eyes that smiled up at him.

Her lips were so close to his, looking soft and kissable as she came out from slumber. No longer able to resist, he leaned forward and captured her lips with his. He let them linger for a second before he pulled away and smiled down at her. "Good morning, Ferryn." His voice was thick and deep with sleep.

She took a second to lick her bottom lip before she ran a hand up to his face. Her palm lingered on his jaw. "Morning, Tom." She said with her voice barely above a whisper.

He leaned into her hand, enjoying the feel of her skin against his. His hand settled on her hip bone as his thumb drew lazy patterns on her silky skin. "How'd you sleep last night?"

Ferryn sighed contently and stretched. "I slept well." She paused and was silent for a second before she continued. Her gaze grew serious as the hand on his jaw dropped. "I slept too well. I hate that, Tom. I hate that sometimes I can't sleep for the life of me but having you beside me just puts me at ease and I sleep like a baby. I hate that you smell so good that I crave it and waking up next to you makes me think things I shouldn't be thinking. Things I'm in no position to analyze right now."

Tom tried not to show surprise in his voice as he digested what she had just said. "Is she saying she's having thought of me like I hope she is?" His tongue seemed to stick to the roof of his mouth as he coughed quietly. "Things about us?"

She looked up at him. "Yes."

It was one word. A simple declaration that held so much more to it. His heart beat a little harder, thudding against his chest at that simple confession. He decided to bypass the intense chat he knew they'd have to have one day. He'd rather spend his last moments in Greenville just simply holding Ferryn. He silently tried to convince her that there was no need to analyze anything anymore. It didn't seem fair that he had to leave that afternoon knowing they still had issues to work out. "Don't think so much. We'll get there eventually. Okay?" He pulled her closer to his chest.

She silently inhaled, drinking in the scent that was so uniquely his. "You still leaving this afternoon?"

An empty feeling sat strongly in the pit of his stomach. "Yeah. That's the plan."

She nodded, suddenly feeling a loss she couldn't explain. "You want me to make you breakfast before you go? I'll drive you to the airport too."

He tucked a flyaway curl around her ear. "You don't have to do that. You've done enough already."

She shook her head and fought the mental argument with herself to stay in bed with him for the rest of his time with her. She eventually sat up and crawled out of bed. "Don't be silly. Go shower. I'll get breakfast ready, then we'll go back to your hotel to get your stuff and head to the airport."

Tom suddenly felt as though she'd put up a wall and closed out the possibility of any further conversation concerning the two of them. He wasn't sure how long he'd be able to abide by her rules. It was killing him already with just the loss of her warm body against his.

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

"So no word from Sam yet?" He asked hopefully during their ride to the airport.

"No. Nothing. I know he said he'd call if there was anything that needed fixed or re-edited or had any new projects for me but I haven't heard anything."

Tom's brows furrowed in disappointment. "You're coming to the release party though, right?"

"I'm not sure yet. It's a long flight just for a party."

He turned towards her and grabbed of her hands. "Ferryn, you did like, 98% of this soundtrack. You should come."

"I'll think about it, okay?"

He nodded in agreement pulling his messenger bag up to his shoulder. "I hope you get to LA soon. I'm going to miss you."

Ferryn smiled softly. "I'll do my best. You better get going before you miss your flight, Tom."

He nodded, looking between her and the handle of her car door hesitantly. "Thanks for everything. This was the best time I've had in forever."

Ferryn laughed softly. "Anytime, Kaulitz."

He turned to open the car door, putting one foot on the cement before quickly turning his body back to her. He took her face between his hands. His lips caught hers in surprise as he held onto them, taking gentle sips and swallowing her gasp of surprise. His thumbs gently brushed just underneath her green eyes before kissing her one last time.

"Bye, Ferryn. I'll talk to you soon." And with that, he turned and exited the car. He shut the door and made his way into the airport.

She knew he'd be flying thousands of miles away from her and that left her heart with a feeling she knew wouldn't just go away. Ferryn gripped the steering wheel, trying to reassure herself that even if she didn't have answers and he wasn't there with her physically, they'd still have their phone calls.

Only they didn't. In the next three weeks, their phone calls came less and less frequent. Ferryn had busied herself in her work until the unexpected phone call came that her sister was giving birth via c-section three hours away. Ferryn left work behind and packed up to be with her sister and her new niece. In doing so, she hoped to leave behind the emptiness that had come to take over her as she had pulled away from the airport as Tom left. Unfortunately, it had followed her. She knew there was only one man that could solve that icky feeling but he was thousands of miles away.

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

Tom perched his glasses high on his head as he bookmarked the page he'd just read. He glanced out the window at the patches of clouds that passed by the airplane. He'd spent a week with his parents and his body felt rested and relaxed. He was happy to be flying back home refreshed and energized.

His brother's constant stirring prevented him from reading any further. Tom turned to him with annoyance. "My God, Bill! Do you have ants in your pants or something?"

Bill looked over at his brother. "You know I get antsy on planes. I can't help it. Can we talk or something?"

"Talk? Didn't we just spend the last week at home talking to Mom and Dad about everything going on in our lives right now?

Bill rolled his eyes as he yanked open a bag of complimentary peanuts. He popped a few in his mouth. "That's different. That was just family stuff. You never did tell me about your trip to Greenville."

"I was working." Tom said turning back to his book.

"You worked every day for the five days you were there?"

"Quit the third degree." Tom snapped.

Bill shifted in his seat again. "Fine, Cranky Pants. Why don't you take a nap or something? You're like a toddler. You get grouchy and are no fun."

Tom laughed and shook his head. "You're just digging for some dirty gossip and I'm not spilling."

Bill clapped excitedly. "So there is dirt!"

Tom was quick to respond. "I never said that."

Bill sighed. "But there is!" He squinted his eyes as he thought. "Oh! Does it have to do with that songwriter you were telling me about?"

Tom ran his hand over his face. The mention of Ferryn made him a little excited and he needed to calm the butterflies before Bill noticed them. A smile tugged at his lips and he knew Bill could read the guilt on his face. "Maybe."

"Ha! I knew it!" Bill's ears perked in anticipation. "So what happened?"

"We just hung out. She took me around the city. I worked and um... yeah. That's it."

"Do you like her?" Bill was practically bouncing in his seat.

Tom pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes. "Yeah. I'm pretty sure I do but-"

A frown formed on Bill's lips. "Why is there always a but? Is she taken?"

"No. But there's a story. She was engaged and her fiance was killed in a car accident. She's still healing from that. I don't think her heart is ready to be out there again. I'm not even sure my own heart is ready for that. Let's not even talk about the fact that she's so many miles away in Greenville."

"Wow. That's a lot to work out." Bill pursed his lips together as he though for a moment. "So you're both healing from past tragedies. I think you could really be good for one another. And so what if she lives in Greenville? She comes to LA a lot, right?"

"Not really but her trips have been more frequent with getting new production gigs."

"When did you last speak with her?"

Tom took a deep breath before setting his book in his lap and pulling his glasses off. He rubbed his forehead in frustration. "It's been a while. I can't talk to her without wanting to say more than I feel like I have the right to. It's a weird mixture of feelings."

Bill nodded. "Take some time to analyze your feelings and then call her. You shouldn't allow the pain from your past to prevent you from something that could be awesome, Tom. She could be really good for you."

Tom turned to look back out the window at the world below. "I know, Bill. Trust me, I know."

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

Ferryn peered into the crib before she reached in to pick up the tiny bundle of screaming newborn. She cradled the tiny body close to her own and tucked the blanket tightly to secure the sweet new little person. "Don't cry, sweet baby girl. Aunt Ferryn has you. We're gonna let your mommy rest." She cooed.

She carefully stepped over to the rocker and situated herself in the chair, placing the baby on her shoulder. Ferryn rubbed her back soothingly. Her niece yawned quietly as her cries had drowned out to small whimpers before quickly subsiding. Ferryn was so wrapped up in her niece she almost didn't even hear her sister pad softly into the room.

Ferryn turned toward the door as her sister walked in. "I have her, Raluca. You can go back to bed."

Raluca walked further into the room and place her hand over her daughter's wild brown hair. "I wanted to check on my baby girl. I couldn't help it." She smile.

"She's too precious. I wanna keep her!" Ferryn gushed.

"She looks good in your arms. You look like a natural. You planning on giving Star a little cousin any time soon?"

Ferryn rolled her eyes. "Don't start, Roo."

Raluca put her hands up in defense. "I was just asking. I heard there may be a possible male type specimen in the picture these days."

Ferryn laughed quietly as to not disturb the nearly sleeping baby in her arms. "I see you've talked to Jessi recently, huh?"

"She came to visit a few weeks ago. She may have mentioned something." Raluca laughed. "Who am I kidding? You know the girl has a big mouth!"

Ferryn laughed with her. "Yeah, she does. But I love her."

Raluca put her hands on her hips. "I'm a little offended, Ferryn. You didn't even tell your own sister... your own flesh and blood... that you're seeing someone. A producer even! And what's this I hear about him being a member of Tokio Hotel back in the day? You can't keep shit like that from me!"

Ferryn stood and placed the sleeping Star in her crib. She turned to her sister. "Calm your hormones. You sound like a horny teenager. I'm not dating him. I don't even know what we are outside of friends. He's just a good friend, I guess."

"You guess?" Raluca smirked. "Have you kissed him?"

Ferryn crossed her arms and tried not to yell. "Roo! Enough!"

"You have!" Her eyes were bright with mischief. "I can see it in your eyes. You kiss him and you liked it!"

"I'm walking away now." Ferryn said but didn't move.

"Stop being stubborn. Spill it."

"Ugh! I hate it when you pry. I met him at a showcase I didn't in LA a while back. I pretty much hated him with the fire of a thousands suns at first but somehow, he clawed his way in. He has become a good friend. We keep in contact but I haven't heard from him much since he left Greenville. I've been busy. He's been busy. You know how it goes."

"More please." Raluca said as they made their way out of Star's bedroom.

Ferryn sighed. "At first, it was just another one of his little games. He always seems to be up to no good. The other few times were, well- I'm not quite sure but they were hot. I don't want to analyze how he makes me feel. I refused to because addicted to it."

"Have you guys talked about it? The possibility of taking it further?"

"He brought it up but I stopped it as quickly as I could. I don't know if I'm ready to be in a relationship yet, Roo. He's been hurt. I've been hurt. He lives far away. It could ruin my chances of getting bigger jobs with producers and musicians. It's all a huge mess."

Raluca took a seat on the couch and Ferryn followed suit. Raluca picked up one of Ferryn's hands and looked her in the eye. "Ferryn, you're over-thinking things. You have to put Austin's death behind you. It was horrible and unfair but you have to put the past behind you. You're going to miss out on so much if you don't. It never hurts to try things, to test the waters."

Ferryn sighed again. "He lives in LA though."

"Distance is nothing, lil' sis. Not if you truly love one another. It can be done."

"Yeah, I know. I wish I could stop thinking about him."

"That right there should be reason enough to do something about it." Raluca nodded.

"Maybe you're right, Roo. Maybe you're right."

Chapter Two

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The song Tom sang in the club