February 14TH, 2001

“Nick, I’m glad you called. She’ll be so excited to talk to you.” Mr. Kinadle said smiling after answering the phone.

“I just wish I could be there today.” The tour was in full swing and he just couldn’t get away: not even for a day, not even for her birthday.

“That’s okay. We all understand. Besides, you two will see each other in a few days. She’s been talking about spending the weekend with you guys all morning, since I surprised her with the plane tickets and the pass that you sent.” Of all Brianna’s friends, female or male, Mr. Kinadle liked and trusted Nick the most. Skeptical at first, it didn’t take long for him to realize just how much the two had in common and that Nick had immediately took up the part of protector where Brianna was concerned.

“Well, at least I was able to send her a concert pass if I couldn’t surprise her by being there myself. I swear it seems like just yesterday when I met this soaking wet child on the side of the road. Now look at her.”

“I know, but it’s an inevitability. Kids grow up. Even you’ve grown up. Hold on, Nick, she’s about the tear the phone right out of my hands. Here, Brianna.” Mr. Kinadle laughed as he walked away.

“Nick! Oh, God. Thanks for the pass. I can’t believe it’s been three months since I’ve seen you.”

“Happy Birthday little girl. We’ve gone longer without seeing each other.” Nick had to laugh; she sounded just like one of their fans who just won tickets off a radio contest or something, rather than a friend who had seen him perform dozens of times.

“I know. But this time it seems longer. Besides, this time we haven’t talked as much while you’ve been gone.” She was pouting, he could tell by the sound of her voice.

“I’ve been busy, Bree. You know how hard this tour has been.”

“I know.” She sighed. “At least I’ll get to see you soon. Then we can stay up all night catching up on each other. How’s the other guys doing?” And so the conversation went for well over an hour before Nick finally had to go.

“I’m sorry, sweetie. I gotta go, but I’ll see you in three days, okay?”

<~ Chapter 7 or Chapter 9 ~>

In the End

Karina 2003