CHAPTER SEVENTY - TEAM EFFORT
AJ watched with concern as Kevin glumly sat down next to him, the tall singer rubbing his forehead tiredly. He gladly accepted the offered drink from their flight attendant, downing it in one gulp, then reached out to snag AJ's rum and coke.
"That bad, huh?" asked AJ sympathetically.
Kevin shrugged. "I suppose it could have been worse, but I'm not sure how," he admitted. "Kristin wasn't too happy with me when I told her I'm wasn't coming home, especially when I said I couldn't tell her why."
AJ sighed. He figured as much. All four had individually called their families to tell them they weren't coming home and each had received pretty much the same friction as Kevin.
"Well, tough shit," spat out Nick, who was now sitting next to Kevin. "She'll live. Brian might not."
Kevin glanced at him, pissed. "I know that! I'm just telling you what happened…" he began, then stopped, his irritation fading away as he observed Nick. As hard as AJ's startling news was to everyone, it seemed to hit Nick the hardest. Kevin could see the worried lines etched in his young face, the anxious and troubled look that had settled into his posture and eyes. If they were going to be of any help to Brian, Kevin knew that he and the rest of the guys would have to work together as a team.
"Nick, I'm sorry. This whole thing with Brian is just so…hard for me to handle. I feel like I'm in a bad dream, ya know?"
Nick sighed, rubbing his hands dejectedly through his hair. "Yeah, me too. God, Kevin, I just can't stop thinking about the all stuff I did to Brian!" Nick's voice started to tremble, recalling the unpleasant incidents. "All those horrible things I said to him… " his voice faded away, too emotional to continue.
Howie grabbed Nick's arm to get his attention. "Nick! We all did it. We all gave him grief. You're not the only one, remember? I have to live with what I did to Brian just as much as you, AJ, and Kevin do!"
Nick sighed, letting out a harsh breath of acceptance. "Yeah, but…"
"No buts!" argued Howie. "We've got to make the best of it and move on, try to forget it, because right now Brian needs our help, not our sympathy!"
AJ nodded at Howie and reached over to lay a reassuring hand on Nick's shoulder. "Nick. This is tearing me up inside too, more than you'll ever know. But I want to help Brian and we," he gestured to Howie and Kevin, " need your help or we're not gonna make it."
AJ saw the weary but calm acceptance in Nick's eyes. "You're right. Sorry, guys."
Kevin sighed and gave Nick a reassuring smile. Nick smiled tentatively back.
"Okay. What should we do first? Where should we go? Who do we talk to?"
"Whoa, whoa, slow down!" said AJ. He looked at Howie and Kevin, who were smiling slightly at Nick's eagerness. "Well?" AJ questioned his friends. "Any ideas?"
"I suppose we could start at Backstreet Management. Check up on Xavier's records. See what we can find," Howie offered.
Kevin nodded. "Good idea." He leaned back into his seat, frowning. "Management is in downtown Orlando, isn't it?"
Nick shrugged, looking at the others. "Beats me. I've never been there."
"Me neither," admitted Kevin. "But I guess it's as good a place to start as any." Kevin turned to AJ. "Looks like we all are gonna be bunking at your house, okay Bone?"
"Sure, no problem. Sorta like old times, huh?" All four thought back to when they had housed together.
"But without Brian," spoke Nick gloomily.
"Nick!" threatened Kevin, Howie, and AJ simultaneously, giving him a warning look.
"Yeah, yeah, okay," replied Nick defensively. "I'm sorry, but I just can't help thinking about Brian."
Howie, AJ, and Kevin nodded. It consumed their thought too, only they weren't as verbal as Nick.
Nick shifted agitatedly in his seat, unable to remain silent, his distress still eating away at him. "I mean, what is he doing now? Where is he? Is he okay?"
AJ heard the soft dings on the intercom indicating the pilot's warning that they were about to land. AJ motioned to the others to buckle in, filled with determination as he looked into his friend's troubled blue eyes.
"That's what we're gonna find out, Nick."
CHAPTER SEVENTY-ONE – INTRUDER
AJ entered the foyer of his home with one thing on his mind. "Guys?" he hollered, his voice echoing throughout. "Jack? Vegas?" His put his fingers to his mouth to let out an ear-splitting whistle.
"Jeez, AJ! I think every dog in the neighborhood heard that!" complained Nick, shaking his head and wiggling a finger in his ear.
AJ ignored him, clapping his hands impatiently. "Come to papa!" He grinned in delight as he heard the faint yapping of his two dogs become louder, watching humorously as they frantically raced around the corner, sliding into each other as they scrambled to gain footing on the tile floor.
"My babies!" he crowed gathering them up. They tried desperately to lick his face, their tails wagging furiously.
Nick rolled his eyes at Howie. "He's as bad as Brian," commented Nick, shaking his head at AJ, who was now playfully chasing the two dogs around the foyer table. The youngest Backstreet member paused to inspect AJ's home, trying to remember the last time he had visited.
"Hey, Bone, where can we stash our stuff?" Nick hefted his bag with a questioning look. AJ was now lying flat on his back, the dogs a top his chest. He pointed a finger down the hallway, not bothering to answer. Nick shrugged and went in search of a room, Howie and Kevin trailing after him.
* * * * * *
Even as troubled as he was, Brian found it difficult if downright impossible to stay awake during the long, tedious drive through the Arizona wilderness. He vaguely remembered them stopping in Phoenix, rousing himself for a few seconds to see Xavier filling up the gas tank before closing his eyes again in fatigue, succumbing to the welcoming arms of sleep.
Now fully awake, he began to take more notice of his whereabouts, trying to figure where he was without asking Xavier. He glanced at the time. They had been on the road for several hours and Brian felt queasy, the combination of no food and motion sickness taking a toll on his body. Surely it can't be much further! Brian sneaked a quick look at Xavier. The bodyguard seemed to know where he was going, his relaxed, almost casual attitude as he drove grating harshly on Brian's nerves.
Brian was about to break down and ask Xavier how much longer when he noticed a large sign ahead. He squinted to read the words, catching INTERNATIONAL BORDER- LAST 2 US EXITS as they drove past. Brian gulped nervously, suddenly aware that they were close to the border. Xavier smoothly exited onto the highway off-ramp and soon entered the beginnings of what looked like a ramshackled town.
"Nogales," indicated Xavier, "or as I fondly call it, Nogie."
"We're here? We're in Mexico?" said Brian in disbelief. He didn't remember crossing the border.
Xavier shook his head. "Nogales, Arizona. We're on the north side of the border. There's a Nogales, Mexico too. We'll be crossing that tomorrow."
"Oh." Tomorrow. Brian wondered what they were going to do tonight. It made him uneasy, to think that he would have to wait until tomorrow to cross into Mexico. He was hoping that whatever illegal transaction Xavier had planned would have taken place today. Brian stared out the window, trying not to dwell on any future problems. He had enough to worry about right now. And one seemed to be coming up. He watched as Xavier pulled their car into a sleazy-looking motel, its office sign hanging crookedly and blinking a feeble "Vacant".
Xavier stopped the car in front of the motel office and jumped out easily, turning to frown at Brian.
"Stay," he mouthed wordlessly, pointing a finger warningly. His silent one word command contained more threat of bodily harm than if he had actually spoke it.
"As if I had a choice," muttered Brian under his breath, noticing Xavier glance occasionally at him through the office window while he finished his transaction inside.
A few minutes later Xavier was out, waving a red motel key ring and opening the side door to fish out their luggage. "Come on," he ordered, "help me with this." He shoved Brian's luggage at him, grabbing his own and headed down the dilapidated walkway.
Brian reluctantly trailed after him, a sense of dread causing him to slow down even more. The last thing he wanted to do was to follow Xavier into a strange motel room. Brian steeled himself as he entered the doorframe, mentally noting the number, 112. The smell that greeted him made his already unsettled stomach lurch. Brian stepped quickly back outside, the body order, cigar smoke, and smell of rancid food too much to handle.
Xavier noticed the grimace on Brian's face and nodded. He walked around the small room, surveying the torn drapes, the dirty carpet, the unmade beds. "Yeah, well what do you expect for $29.95 a night?" Dropping his suitcase next to the twin bed closest to the door, he placed his massive hand on the end of the mattress and gave it a couple of pushes. It creaked noisily, groaning under Xavier's handling.
"Pretty loud." He turned to wink at Brian. "But I don't think anyone will complain about us too much."
Brian gave him a sour look, ignoring Xavier's sexual innuendo. He took a deep breath before entering, deliberately placing his stuff as far away as he could from Xavier's. He was glad now that he had slept for so long in the car because there was no way he was going to fall asleep tonight in this hellhole.
* * * * * *
Nick walked over to the large refrigerator to get another beer. He sighed as he stared forlornly at the empty frig; empty of food that is. AJ had quite a selection of imported beers, all neatly lined up according to brand. Circling his fingers around two Heinekin, Nick yanked them out and slammed the door shut. Handing one to Kevin, he popped the top of the other and hopped onto the kitchen counter, swinging his legs.
"Jeez, I'm starving," he grumbled to Howie. "How long does it take to get pizza?"
Howie shrugged. "I told AJ to phone it in, but no. He said they always screw up the delivery, so he went to go get it himself."
"Hmmpf. Well he had better hurry, cause these little rats of his are starting to look pretty tasty," commented Kevin, eyeing Jack.
"Hey, I heard that," objected AJ as he entered the kitchen. "My babies are not rats." He placed the two large pizza boxes on the table. "Are you?" he cooed to them as they danced excitedly around him. He opened the first box, swatting away Nick's hand. "Dogs first." AJ ignored Nick's groan and carefully plucked out a slice, tearing miniscule pieces and tossing it to the two eagerly awaiting mouths.
Howie opened the other box, a frown forming across his face. "Where's the sausage?"
AJ leaned over, pointing with his finger. "There."
"Hell, that's not sausage. It looks like ground hamburger."
AJ peered closer, swearing under his breath. "They fucked up the order again!"
"Who cares," replied Nick, taking a large bite. "Meat is meat."
"It is not," argued Kevin, trying to remove the offending topping. He gave AJ's dogs a sour look, gently push the begging two away with his leg. "Bone!" he complained.
"Hey, you two! Out!" AJ gave a sharp command, which the dogs ignored totally. AJ leaned over, scowling. "Jack, Vegas! Out, now!" They wagged their tails, the only thing intent on moving.
Kevin snorted and rolled his eyes. "Get some real dogs," he scoffed. He could never understand why the guys adored such little drop-kicks. AJ threw Kevin a scathing look. Nick laughed, licking the rest of the pizza sauce off his fingers when he couldn't find a napkin in sight.
"Man, those beers are going right through me," he commented to no one in particular, heading towards the bathroom situated just off the kitchen. Nick entered the bathroom, giving his head a shake at the enormous size of it. If there was one thing AJ loved, it was bathrooms and even a lowly kitchen bathroom was not immune to AJ's craving for lavishness. Nick admired the marble floors but frowned at the large floor to ceiling window next to the toilet. Where was the privacy? Nick shrugged as he unzipped, guessing that the massive foliage outside in AJ's backyard would ensure enough seclusion.
He glanced casually outside, interested to see if AJ had added any other statues to the various ones he had already accumulated out back. Nick laughed quietly. He wouldn't have been surprised to see the actual statue of David out there….Nick froze immediately, his eyes not believing what he saw. He held his breath, his heart pounding painfully as he viewed a black clad figure jumping easily over AJ's retaining wall.
Quickly zipping up, Nick moved away from the window, pressing against the wall as he tried to peer outside without being seen himself.
"Kevin!" he hollered frantically. "Kevin, come here!" Nick waited impatiently, not wanting to lose sight of the stranger who appeared to be crouching behind a large tree. "Jesus!" Nick swore heavily, his sight fixed on the intruder who was now cautiously making his way closer. "Kevin!" he hollered again.
"What?" came Kevin's exasperated reply, "you get your dick stuck in the zipper again?" He pushed opened the unlocked door, munching on a piece of pizza as he viewed Nick plastered against the bathroom wall.
"Funny," scowled Nick. "Don't move," he hissed, savagely slashing his arm as Kevin took a step forward. Nick jerked his head towards the window. "There's an intruder outside. I just saw him jump over AJ's wall."
Kevin looked at him in wide-eyed wonder. "Shit!" he breathed softly. "Can you see him?"
Nick nodded. "Yeah. He's now near the right side of the patio, just hiding behind a pillar."
"Do you think Xavier sent him?"
Nick spared a quick glance at Kevin. "Well he sure ain't no fan."
Kevin smiled grimly. "I'm gonna get the SOB." He backed out of the bathroom, holding his hand up to Nick. "Stay there, watch him. Yell if you see him leaving."
Nick gave him an okay signal, his eyes never leaving the shadowy form of the intruder. He felt a fine sheen of sweat break out on his forehead and he wiped it away hurriedly.
Suddenly Nick caught the trespasser looking directly at the bathroom window and he felt his heart go up to his throat, wondering if he had been spotted. He held his breath then released it with a sigh of relief as the dark-clad figure turn his attention away and started to cautiously circle around the other side of the pillar. Nick prayed that Kevin had already warned Howie and AJ of the intruder, hoping that AJ's dogs wouldn't start yapping and scare him off.
Nick shifted nervously as he watched the intruder come up closer to the kitchen windows. What the hell is this guy looking for? And where the hell is Kevin? Nick wished now he had gone with him, knowing that as strong as Kevin was, two were better than one.
Nick strained to distinguish the features on the prowler's face; he was under the shaded patio now and twilight was just setting in, making almost impossible for Nick to see him clearly. The stranger was now trying to peer carefully into the window, crouched on one knee. A slight movement to Nick's left caught his eye and he watched fearfully as he saw Kevin sneak up behind the squatting figure, Howie just a few feet behind Kevin.
"Come on, come on," chanted Nick, his hands clenched in anticipation. "Get him!" As if he could hear Nick, the intruder turned abruptly and stood up, ready to flee. Kevin and Howie landed on him simultaneously, each grabbing a hold of the prowler's arms. A fierce struggle ensued and Howie lost his grip on the intruder. Nick instantly bolted out of the bathroom, tearing through the kitchen and raced outside.
Kevin fought hard for control, holding on to the intruder's shoulders while Howie figured out a way to join in, the man's wildly kicking feet keeping him away. Angered, Nick flung himself at the intruder and took a fierce swing. The punch landed squarely on the stranger's jaw, effectively canceling any more resistance. He sagged in Kevin's arms, stunned.
AJ walked outside, his eyes round as he surveyed the scene. He was carrying both his dogs, his hands having gently covered their muzzles to keep them from scaring off the intruder.
"Holy shit! Way to go, Nick!"
Panting a little, Kevin nodded. "Help me," he ordered to Howie and Nick, indicating for them to carry the dark-clad man inside. All three hefted the moaning man up and carried him indoors, unceremoniously dumping him onto the kitchen floor.
Hyped up, Nick gave the stranger a contemptuous kick with his shoe. "Who are you? What were you trying to do? Who sent you?" Nick leaned down to get a better look at the young man who was holding his jaw, trying to stem the bleeding from the corner of his mouth. Dressed all in black, the young intruder looked like a thousand other transients Nick had seen in Florida, unkempt, greasy hair, a slightly glazed look to his eyes.
"I think he's high," informed Nick, straightening up.
AJ went over and opened his large pantry door, grabbing a handful of dog food and scattering it on the ground. He placed Jack and Vegas down then shut the door, going over to view the cross-legged man.
"Yep," confirmed AJ.
"So what do we do now?" questioned Howie. He eyed the stranger closely, not willing to take his eyes off of him for a second. "Police?"
The scruffy man looked up, uneasy. AJ caught the look and smiled, pulling up a chair next to the intruder and sat down.
"Naw, I don't think so." The intruder gave AJ a puzzled but suspicious look. "I think we can work something out, don't you?"
"Huh?" replied the stranger dully, not sure.
"What's your name?" questioned Nick.
The injured man glared at Nick and pressed his mouth into a thin line.
AJ nodded. "I thought so," he said, almost to himself. AJ pointed to Nick and Kevin. "Watch him. I've got an idea, I'll be back in a second." He hurriedly left the kitchen and all four heard him scramble upstairs.
"What is AJ doing?" Nick cried in exasperation and Kevin and Howie shrugged, equally mystified. The stranger moved to a more comfortable position and Nick pointed warningly at him. "Don't move, don't even breathe. There's nothing more I'd like to do than to kick your ass again."
Two defiant eyes met two determined blue ones and the blue ones were victorious. The stranger hung his head, not lifting it until he heard the delighted cackle of AJ's voice.
AJ resumed his seat, waving a thick envelope in front of the stranger's face. He pulled out a hundred dollar bill, then another.
"Your name."
The man hesitated, but only for a second. "John. John Smith."
Kevin snorted in reply but AJ waved him off. "Okay, okay, that's a start. Here's your two hundred, John."
AJ held out the money and the intruder's hand reached out tentatively. "But one more lie, John, and instead of becoming a rich and free person, you'll become a poor and imprisoned one. Understand?" AJ smiled nastily as he watched the stranger nod quickly.
"Good." AJ pulled another few bills. "Remember, no more lies. We have a pretty good idea already why you’re here. Besides, you don't want to get Nick mad again, do you?"
Nick looked at John stonily.
"Okay, good," continued AJ. "First, who sent you?"
John paused and AJ took another hundred out.
"I don't know."
AJ frowned, glancing up at the frustrated faces of Nick, Kevin, and Howie. AJ jerked back the bill. "Not the right answer, John."
"Really, dude, I don't know his name," pleaded John, his eyes wide. "He's a big mother, mean as hell. He never gave me a name."
AJ pondered this for a moment. "Okay. How much did he pay you?"
"Five hundred."
AJ slowly counted out six hundred. "You're mine now, got it?" he said in a firm voice. He watched as John licked his lips, considering the deal. AJ fanned open the envelope, giving John a peek at future riches.
John nodded. "Sounds good to me, man," he agreed, immediately switching allegiances.
AJ smirked at the guys and leaned back into his chair, satisfied. "Ah, the power of Ben Franklin. He's all yours, guys."
Howie spoke up first. "You said you didn't know his name, right? Okay, is this guy dark-haired, brown eyes? About 6'2"?”
John nodded and Howie glanced meaningfully at his friends. "What exactly did this guy want you to do?"
John thought for a moment, trying to find the exact words. "Uh, he wanted me to positively identify you," he answered, pointing directly at AJ, " and he wanted to make sure you that you were home. Yeah, that was it." He nodded, looking pleased.
"Why?"
John made a face. "I dunno. He just wanted me to call him when I found out."
Nick spoke up, interested. "Call?"
John gave Nick a sour look, unconsciously rubbing his tender jaw. "Yeah. The dude gave me a number to call." He stuffed his hand into his back pocket and pulled out a limp scrap of paper. "Here."
Howie grabbed it eagerly, studying the number. "When were you suppose to call?"
John stalled, eyeing AJ. AJ pulled out another hundred and John snatched it quickly.
"Tonight."
Kevin rubbed his chin, raising his dark eyebrows thoughtfully at his friends. 'Time for old John here to make a phone call, don't ya think?" The tall singer looked at AJ. "Bone, go get every portable phone you have. I wanna listen in." AJ nodded and motioned for Howie to come help him. Kevin glanced at Nick for a moment before coming closer to John, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied their intruder. "You're going to be on your best behavior, right? Cause if you screw up this call and this guy catches on, I'll make sure you wished it was him instead of me coming after you."
CHAPTER SEVENTY-TWO - HOLD THE MAYO
Brian could sense the large form of Xavier standing behind him, much too close for comfort. Not wanting to show the alarm he felt radiating throughout him, Brian kept his back to him, taking his time as he searched for clean socks in his suitcase. He finally straightened up and turned, only to find that Xavier hadn't moved an inch.
Brian calmly edged around him, hoping his look of annoyance was believable enough to mask his uneasiness. He sat down on the edge of his bed and put on his socks and shoes, the only clothing he had not brought with him into the bathroom. As much as Brian hated the idea of taking a shower in that filthy bathroom, knowing all too well that a flimsy locked door was the only thing that separated him and Xavier, he braved it, wanting desperately to wash away the dust and grime of the Arizona desert.
Now feeling the burning eyes of Xavier bear down upon him Brian gave up all pretense of civility. "I hear that south of the border you can satisfy any weird craving," he insinuated nastily.
"Yeah, but what if I'm really hungry right now?" taunted Xavier, his eyes roaming.
"Go to Burger King. Have it your way…" he sang sarcastically.
Xavier laughed, amused. "I will," he promised. "You know I always do."
Brian stood up. "Yeah, right," he said scornfully. "Speaking of food, are we ever going to eat?"
Xavier opened their motel door with a flourish. "Yep. I've got a big night in store for us. A real night on the town."
Brian frowned at him as they exited the room. "Great," he muttered under his breath.
* * * * *
Brian watched helplessly as Xavier passed yet another restaurant, his stomach hurting past the point of aching. It was now a dull throb, an occasional spasm that made him want to curl up in agony. A vicious headache was beginning to take hold and it distressed Brian that he had forgotten to take some pain medication.
Another diner flew by and Brian was beginning to feel the threads of anger surged through him. "Xavier, we just passed by a place to eat! What's your problem? Come on, I'm hungry."
"Ah, poor baby. We'll be there soon enough. You'll like it, I promise, okay?" Xavier flashed him a fake smile.
Brian crossed his arms across his chest. "Whatever," he mumbled. He gazed outside the window, trying to forget the cramps in his stomach. Nogales was strangely fascinating, a border town that was struggling to keep American standards but failing miserably. Brian read several signs as they drove by, a combination of Spanish and English intermixed. He wished he had paid more attention when Howie has spoke Spanish, maybe even asked him a few pointers, because nothing seemed to make sense in this hodgepodge town. Brian shot a quick look at Xavier. Of course, the bodyguard seemed right at home, knew his way unerringly, and it made Brian apprehensive about where they were headed.
He picked at his fingers, edgy. The first day was not even over and he felt like he had been to hell and back. Six more days to go. I'm not sure I can do it. He thought about the next three games, trying to figure what Xavier might have in store. He said harder. Does that mean physically or mentally? He prayed it meant physically. In his own heart he knew that another mental game would probably send him over the edge.
They paused at a red light, waiting for it to change. Brian stared at a white stucco building next to him, Banco de Nogales. Even I can figure that name out, he thought as the light turned green and Xavier turned left. He wondered why they were going to cross the border tomorrow to do their money transaction. Tomorrow. Why tomorrow? The question raced repeatedly through Brian's mind. Think. There's something strange here…He shook his head. It didn't make any sense. If Xavier got his money tomorrow he'd be rich, so wouldn't he just disappear, vanish from sight? Yet Xavier spoke of three more games to play. Why would he be foolish enough to get his money, then still continue to play the games? Unless…Brian tensed his seat, feeling slightly lightheaded. Unless Xavier wasn't going to play the next game, that this was all a trick, a ruse to lead me on, make me think about the next challenge, to keep my mind occupied. With sudden clarity Brian saw through Xavier's plan. He's hoping I'm concentrating on the next three games, games he had no intention of playing because by tomorrow he'll be rich and in Mexico where no one can touch him. Brian now saw the clever strategy in completing the money transaction in Mexico. And I'll be with him, in a foreign country, out of touch…Brian felt numb, a sinking feeling enveloping him as he understood that whether he had won or not in Xavier's phony games, Xavier was still going to follow through with his planned surprise for one of the guys. Xavier would like nothing more than to hurt one of them, hell, he said he wished he could have gotten them all! Xavier wanted Brian away from them, not taking a chance that Brian could ruin his surprise. The surprise. It sounded ugly. Brian corrected himself. No, it would be ugly. Brian gulped in fear, thinking about the guys. Trying not to show the extreme agitation he felt, Brian kept his face turned towards the passenger window. He needed to get in touch with the guys, now, tonight. But how? Xavier had taken his cell phone and pager away, just after the gun incident and Brian understood why. Xavier was watching Brian like a hawk, 24/7, never leaving his side. Brian knew he had little chance of getting to a phone.
Brian sighed bitterly. Even if he did manage to reach them, how could he convince them? Do I say, watch out, be careful? Xavier is going to hurt you? Brian could hear the snort of disbelief and sarcasm in Nick's voice before hanging up on him. Aren't you a little confused there, Brian? Don't you mean you?
His best chance was with Kevin. He hoped that their family bond was strong, even stronger than their friendship. He knew Kevin was the most sensible, the most rational of the group. He would just have to make Kevin understand. Brian could feel the curious stare Xavier was giving him and he quickly snapped out of his musings, scared that Xavier could somehow read his thoughts.
He pointed to another restaurant that had just passed by. "There, right there, what's wrong with that one?" he barked, trying to mask his nervousness with anger. "Anything will do…"
Brian backed off on his outburst, alarmed that he had pushed the bodyguard too hard when Xavier suddenly swerved the car into a McDonald's parking lot and shut the engine off quickly.
"Here we are!" Xavier waved his hand expansively and jumped out of the car.
Brian crawled out, disbelief scrawled plainly on his face. "McDonalds? You hate McDonalds!"
Xavier laughed, his dark eyes enjoying Brian's incredulity. "Naw. Not this one. This McDonalds is the only one that serves jalepeno relish with their food." He rubbed his hands in eager anticipation. "Come on!" He bounded inside, almost boyishly. Brian shook his head, eyeing the busy restaurant before reluctantly following in. What was Xavier thinking? I'll get recognized for sure!
Brian opened the heavy metal doors and was greeted by a whoosh of warm air and the sound of various employees greeting the overflowing customers. They all seemed to be speaking Spanish. Everyone of them. Brian wandered over to Xavier, his mouth slightly open as he read the menu. Everything was written in Spanish too.
"Are you sure we aren’t across the border?" he asked suspiciously.
Xavier laughed as he stepped up to the counter. "Yes. Go sit down, over there," he pointed. "I'll get the order."
Brian looked to where he was pointing. Far away, tucked back into the corner was a table with two seats. Sitting down, Brian sighed as he viewed the sea of dark-haired people before him. He felt like he was the only American here, well light-skinned and blonde, that is. He realized he must stick out like a sore thumb...but as for being easily recognized he was pretty sure now, as Xavier was, that these customers hadn't the slightest idea or interest in the Backstreet Boys. Brian watched as Xavier gave the McDonald's employee what looked to be a lengthy order then gazed casually around at the milling crowd, all patiently waiting to be next. Looking down at his hands, he studied them, picking at his nails when suddenly he felt that unmistakable stare bearing down upon him. Sighing, he glanced up, wondering what Xavier wanted now. Instead he looked up into a pair of light brown eyes, belonging to a very pretty young face. The girl was on her cell phone, but not talking, her mouth hanging wide open in surprise as she stared directly at Brian. She elbowed her friend who was standing next to her, who in turn was standing next to Xavier.
Brian smiled weakly back at her, realizing he had been spotted. His smile faded as he zeroed in on her cell phone, his heart doing a flip-flop as an impulsive idea sprang to mind. On edge, he looked at Xavier who was still waiting for the order to be rung up. With a wave of his hand, Brian motioned the two girls over, putting his finger up to his mouth indicating for them to be quiet. The two girls nodded and hurried over.
"Oh my God, it's you isn't it?" she gushed.
Brian nodded, trying to be polite and keep a watchful eye on Xavier at the same time.
The dark-haired girl squealed a little and Brian gave her a warning look with his eyes.
"Oh, oh, sorry. I really am. Can I have your autograph?"
"Sure." Brian gave her a "anything to write with" look and she began immediately to scour her purse.
"Here," said her friend, handing Brian a pen, her eyes never leaving his face.
"Thanks, uh?" questioned Brian, indicating her name.
"Rosie. This is Lupe," Rosie pointed to her friend.
Brian smiled warmly, signing the paper as quickly as he could with out looking like he was in a hurry.
"You're here for the Tucson concert, aren't you?"
Brian nodded, looking over Rosie's dark head to locate Xavier. "Uh, yeah, you guys going?" The bodyguard was just now getting some of his ordered served up. Hurry! he screamed to himself. Ask them!
The two girls shook their heads unhappily. "Nope. Sold out before we could get tickets! And we were only 30 behind in line."
"Too bad," sympathized Brian. Now, do it now! "Say listen, I feel bad about that. Tell you what. See that large man over there? Yeah? Well, he's my bodyguard and he's almost got our order ready, so we'll be eating soon. He's not in a very good mood right now, so he won't be too happy seeing you guys here. But I want you guys to go to the concert." Brian had to hurriedly hush them up as they began to express their happiness. His eyes flickered nervously as he saw Xavier reaching for the condiments. He had only a few more moments. "I'm going to ask a strange request, so say no if you don't want to."
The girls wiggled a little in anticipation, nodding their heads. Brian took a deep breath. Here goes nothing! "I need to borrow your cell phone," he asked watching their faces intently. "Mine, uh, broke, and even though my bodyguard has one, his batteries are dead." God! Xavier was grabbing napkins! Sweating, Brian hurried on. "I'm planning a back stage surprise party for Nick," he heard their gasps of delight, "after the Tucson show. If I can borrow your phone, I can get you tickets to the show and the party. Interested?"
Please, please, please… begged Brian, closing his eyes, not wanting the girls to see the desperation in them. He felt a nudge on his arm and opened his eyes. Rosie was smiling, holding out her phone to him.
"Here," she offered, "take it. It's my dad's anyway," she said offhandedly, unconcerned.
Brian nearly snatched it from her hand, quickly shoving the phone is his jacket. "Thanks! I'll give it back to you at the concert." Noticing their hesitancy, he hurried on. "Front row seats okay for you and Lupe?"
Shit! Xavier was now on his way over, a curious look on his face. "I'll have everything ready and waiting for you at the arena, I promise."
Xavier placed the food down, his smile strained. "Girls?" he said sourly. "You're not bothering Mr. Littrell, are you?"
If Xavier's body wasn't imposing enough, his tone was. The girls backed away. "No, no, just talking. I got his autograph." Lupe smiled nervously, showing her scrap of paper.
"Well good for you," Xavier sneered, his sarcasm showing. "Now get lost."
Brian smiled apologetically as the girls moved even farther back. "Goodbye." His eyes conveyed thanks. Rosie nodded, understanding, and poked Lupe in the ribs. "Let's go."
She turned back in surprise. "Oh!" Rosie ran over to give Brian a hug, startling Xavier and Brian both. "The lock out code is 922," she whispered in his ear and pulled away, giving the bodyguard a victorious smirk. "Bye!" She waved playfully at them both, then ran giggling out the door with Lupe.
Xavier looked at her with disdain, Brian with relief. The cell phone had a lock out feature, meaning it was useless to use unless he had the code. He drilled the number into his brain. Smiling inwardly at Rosie's cleverness he began to eat what Xavier shoved at him, vowing to repay her a thousand times over.
* * * * * *
Kevin looked grimly at John Smith or whatever-the-hell-his-name-was, and wondered if he was doing the right thing. AJ, along with Howie, had rounded up five portable phones and Kevin leaned over, his posture threatening, as he handed one to John who was now sitting in AJ's living room.
"Remember, play it cool. Don't talk too much."
John nodded and grinned slightly as he saw AJ perched on the edge of the couch, waving more money at him. Kevin punched the number in and held his breath as he gave the ringing phone to John then covered the speaker on his phone, indicating for the rest of the guys to do the same. Howie, AJ, and Nick all clicked on, hearing the faint ring.
"Yeah?" came a rough growl.
John spoke up. "Hey, dude, its me, uh Jim." John, now Jim, flinched at Kevin's scowl.
"Did you locate him?" All four guys listened quietly as Xavier's snarled his command.
"Yeah, he's here, came in awhile ago." John/Jim replied calmly.
"Good." There was a pause, a lengthy one at that, and it made Kevin nervous. "Where the hell are you calling from?" All four Backstreet Boys froze, not daring to even breathe. Nick gazed wide-eyed at Kevin, a panicked look to his face. AJ waved dramatically to all and mouthed silently, my number is blocked
. John/Jim laughed easily. "Dude, from inside his house!" AJ rose out of his seat, alarmed, but Kevin waved him back, understanding the intruder's reasoning. If Xavier had any suspicions, it was better to tell a half-truth.
"His house?" Xavier tone indicated that he was not pleased.
"Yep, he and that blond kid went out, to go get something to eat, I think. I just picked the lock, so I decided to call you. Hey, can I steal something?"
"No!" roared Xavier over the line and everyone winced. "Did you say that blond kid?"
"Yeah, why?"
"Shit. I gotta call someone now, tell 'em he's not at his house. I didn't think blondie was going to stay with that punk. Did you see anyone else?"
John/Jim eyed Kevin who was following the conversation closely. Kevin gave him a heads-up sign and John decided to push a little further. "Like who?"
Nick heard Xavier snort in exasperation. "Come on asshole. You know who I mean. Any other fucking Backstreet Boys?"
"Nope."
"How come his alarm didn't go off?"
Kevin did a double take, surprise by Xavier's sudden question. He sensed the suspicion in Xavier's voice and found himself beginning to sweat, but John/Jim answered coolly. "Guess he forgot. He's got dogs, maybe they would alarm the sensors. Hey, are you sure I can't take anything?" he whined convincingly getting off the subject.
"Goddammit, no. I paid you to watch, not to steal. Don't fuck with me. And get the hell out of the house, now."
"Okay, boss." All five heard loud shrieks of girly delight in the background.
"What was that?"
"Nothing!" snarled Xavier. "Brian, let's go!" he yelled faintly. In the background Nick, AJ, Howie and Kevin tensed as they heard Xavier yell Brian's name.
Xavier returned to the receiver. "Gotta go, fan problem. Get out of that house. And don't ever call me again, got it?" With a click the line went dead and all five hung up too.
Nick shook slightly, throwing the phone onto the couch. "Bri's with him. I hope he's okay." He placed two shaky hands up to his face and slumped into a chair. Kevin looked at AJ, Howie, then at their intruder.
"Well, Jim, you did good. Guess I'll let you live." John/Jim knew by the look on the dark-haired singer that he was not joking. Kevin eyed him up and down calmly. "By the looks of you, I don't think you stay in one place for very long, do you?" Kevin didn't wait for a reply. "Yes, I think a fresh start is just what you need." Kevin walked over to Howie who was sitting next to Nick. "Howie, grab AJ's keys and give Jim a ride to the airport. Pay for a ticket, I don't care where. Just make sure he gets on, okay?"
Howie nodded and caught the keys AJ fished out of his pocket then placed a hand on Jim's shoulder, telling him to get up. As they walked to the door AJ stopped them, stuffing a few more hundred into Jim's shirt pocket. Jim started to smile, then stopped as Kevin came up from behind.
"Hey, just remember this. We…are… the… Backstreet… Boys," Kevin spat, enunciating every word. "You do anything, anything to fuck this up and I will use every last dollar to see that your life is pure hell. And I've got millions," he whispered, his last sentence telling Jim everything he needed to know. Jim gulped once, seeing the looks of agreement on the other three. Right now, a trip out of Florida was looking pretty good to him.