Nick parked his car and grabbed their pinnic basket. "Ready to see something amazing?"

"Definitely."

Nick covered her eyes. "All right, take a step down. Take three steps forward." He removed his hands on the third step.

Karen stood in shock. "It's so--so-. Nick, it's absolutely beautiful. It's breathtaking."

Nick sat down on the sand. "I knew you'd like it." He passed her a sandwich.

"Thanks," she said unwrapping her food. "Man, I sure missed out on a lot in Indiana."

Nick stretched out staring at the sky. "Indiana's not that bad, Karen, I've been there."

Karen gazed at the neverending sea. "I wish I could stay here forever."

"It's not as nice a view as back home, but it's pretty nice." Nick finished his sandwich. "Gosh, I'm still hungry."

"Here, you can have my mine. I'm not hungry."

"Thanks, I'll buy you something when we get back to the hospital."

"Oh, that's all right. Nick, would you be mad at me if I went back to the hotel?"

"No, of course. But, why?"

"Your family needs sometime alone with Leslie."

"But--"

"Nick, please understand."

Nick smiled. "You're a sweetie."

"So, are you, Carter. Now we better hurry. You're suppose to meet the guys at one."

Nick stood up. "Would you please just ride back with me? I'm sure Brian would drive you back."

Karen looked in Nick's baby blues. "Okay."

When they returned the guys stood out Leslie's room. Brian smiled. "Hey, guys, good news. Leslie's up, but groggy."

"Great," Nick exclaimed. He wrapped his arm around Karen. "Would you mind driving Karen back to the hotel?"

Kevin spoke up. "I'd be gald to."

Nick gave Karen a huge hug. "Thanks, for everything you've done."

"There's no need for thanks, but you're welcome. See 'ya back at the hotel."

When Karen was out of sight. Nick turned to the rest of the guys. "After we visit Leslie could I ask you guys a question?"

They nodded. Then everyone stepped into the room.

Leslie looked tired, but her coloring had improved. "Hey, Les!" Nick smiled. He took her hand. "How are 'ya feeling?"

"Better, but I'm really sleepy."

Mrs. Carter rubbed her daughter's forehead. "Go on back to sleep, hon."

She yawned. "I don't need to, really."

"You do, sweetie, trust me. It'll make you feel a lot better in the morning," Brian stated.

Nick stood next to B-Rok. "Listen to him, Leslie, he knows what he's talking about."

She shut her eyes. And drifted off within minutes. Mr. Carter faced Nick. "Son, could you please ask Karen if she'd mind being the opening act for about 2-3 weeks?"

"2 or 3 weeks?" AJ repeated.

"Yes. Do you think Karen would do it?"

"I'm sure she would, she's very sweet," Howie answered.

"Will she be staying on our tour bus?" Brian asked.

"No, she'll be using Leslie's bus."

AJ smirked. "This chick's pretty cool. She's got a tour bus to herself already."

"Well, I called Howie's sister Pollyanna and she's agreed to stay with Karen. And do a few numbers."

"Great," Howie replied. "I haven't seen her in months."

"It'll be good with Pollyanna there. Then Karen won't be alone," Brian said.

Howie walked towards the door. "I'm gonna' go call Pollyanna and find out more information. Give Leslie my best."

AJ followed his friend. "I'll page Kev and have him ask Karen."

Nick ran after AJ. "Wait for me. I want to know her answer."

"I guess we're playing follow-the-leader," B-Rok chuckled as he stepped into the hall.

Nick huddled the Boys together. "Guys I need your advice."

"On what?" Howie asked.

"I'm considering asking Karen out."

AJ massaged his temples. "It takes all four of us to figure it out?"

"Well, I'm real nervous about asking her."

Brian sat down in the waiting room. "Don't be nervous. Just ask her nicely."

Howie nodded. "Brian's right. You should go for it."

AJ called Kevin as Nick took a seat beside Brian. "Kev, it's AJ. Hey, do me a favor. Ask Karen if she'd be the opening act for 2-3 weeks. Leslie's too sick to do it." He paused. "No, she wouldn't be alone. Howie's sister Pollyanna will travel with her." AJ became silent for a moment. "Okay, man, thanks."

"Well?" Nick wondered.

AJ put on his jacket. "She's gotta' talk to her agent and family. She'll tell 'ya tonight at the hotel"

"I have to wait that long?" Nick moaned.

"Yep, sorry." AJ slid on his shades. "See 'ya, guys. I gotta' date. Nick, give Leslie a hug for me."

"Sure, man."

'Howie pulled out his keys. "I need to go, too. I need to call my sister. I'll see you tonight, guys."

Brian glanced at Nick, who appeared to be in a trance. "What are you thinking about?"

"Karen. I can't wait to get back to find out her answer."

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