December 30-31 (Monday-Tuesday, New Years Eve)

“So you have the directions right?” Liv was chewing on something as she spoke.

“Absolutely. Are you sure staying at the Four Seasons is going to be alright? I mean, its really expensive and we really cant afford to blow that much on a single night?” Erin laughed, hating to admit that both she and Amy were too poor to afford such luxurious accommodations.

“Absolutely. Consider it my Christmas Gift to the both of you. So, you both have rooms reserved in my name, just stop at the hotel and get changed here since your both working that day. I will meet you in the lobby around 7ish…I will probably have my dad with me.” Liv coughed slightly, clearing her throat.

“You are too good to us, Liv. You know that, right?” Erin felt her smile extend from her heart, outward.

“You can never be too good to your friends.” Liv was smiling. “So, see you tomorrow night at 7. Later!”

“Alright, see you then!” Erin hung up, looking to an overly anticipating Amy.

“So, what did she say?” Amy was shivering with excitement.

“She gave me directions and set up two room for us at the Four Seasons! The Four Seasons, Amy! One if the most luxurious hotels in all of New York City. This is going to be one hell of a New Year.” Erin laughed.

“Well its settled then! Carol is going to take your New Years Day and Christina is going to take mine. Oh, this is going to be awesome. We have to dig out some clothes and figure out what to wear. Just think, Erin, you finally get to meet Steven Tyler!” Amy giggled with excitement.

“I thought we were going to see Fellowship of the Ring at the Monticello Theatre tonight? Now you want to try on clothes. Which is it?” Erin folded her arms before her chest.

“We can do both. Lets find something to wear and we still have time to catch the 7:10p show, alright?”

Erin smiled, grabbing her hand. “Alright, that gives us less than an hour. Come on!”

They slid into Amys bedroom, digging through clothes. Amy pressed a few potential outfits against her body, turning sideways to model. “I really wish Billy would be there with us. It sucks. But it will be cool to see Liv and Viggo again.” Amy turned to gaze in the mirror, observing one of the potential outfits she had chosen.

“Did Billy say what he was doing for the New Year?” Erin gave the thumbs down to the outfit Amy was admiring.

Amy pulled another from her closet. A pair of black leather pants with a short, indigo blue silk shirt that she had, in previous times, left open at the midrif. “He said something about going out on the town with Dom and Orlando. But he wasn’t sure what the plan was. Billy did make me promise to have my cell phone on. He said he was going to call me around 8 or 9pm our time. I told him he was crazy, since it will be after the new year in England.”

Erin nodded her approval. “I like that one. It looks great on you and isn’t too pretentious. I have no idea what kind of event we are walking into. But it will definitely be rock and roll related.”

“So, any word from Orlando?” Amy dropped herself onto her bed, lighting up a cigarette.

Erin shook her head. The sound of his name was slowly becoming a distant memory in her heart. “I haven’t spoken to him since Christmas. He was real weird on the phone that night, like I told you. It was like I offended him somehow. But I cant see how.”

“Sean?” Amy asked.

“Yeah, you were here when Sean called me last night.” Erin looked confused.

“No, I meant maybe what Sean got you for Christmas. You were pretty excited about it that night. Maybe it’s a sore subject because he likes you?” Amy was leading with innuendo’s.

“I don’t think so, Amy. Orlando is engaged and that sorta limits the vision of the future, you know?” Erin took a drag off her friends cigarette.

“But what if he wasn’t engaged anymore?” Amy smiled, biting her lip to keep back the info she had been holding in her thoughts about Orlando and Jemma.

“Even if he wasn’t engaged, there is still the distance, you know? I mean he is an up and coming star. He is going to have tons of things to think about. He told me about the potential for a Pirates of the Caribbean movie. There would never be a chance for us. I guess its better we ended it before we began. The odds are highly in favor of his future, not being stuck with some nobody chic in New York.” Erin sighed. “We are wasting precious time here. Lets find me an outfit and get to the movie.”

Amy smiled and crushed her cigarette, rushing off into the bedroom with Erin.

Orlando, Billy and Dom sat in a late night coffee shop in the midst of London Proper. Billy and Dom were chatting rapidly as Orlando sipped his coffee, taking an occasional broken piece of danish to his mouth.

“Aren’t ya excited, mate? Yer goin’ to see yer woman in a few hours!” Billy was obviously beside himself.

Dom was laughing. “I think he is still a bit miffed about my bringing Samantha with me to New York City for the big New Years event.”

“Nah, mate. I don’t care about that, really. I just like giving you a hard time and all. If you and Sam have hit it off so well, then I might well consider you more a part of the family than you already are.” Orlando extinguished his cigarette.

“Then what is on your mind, OB?” Dom sipped his coffee, tilting his head to the side to study Orlandos face.

“I am having second thoughts about this trip. I am having second thoughts about Erin and I. She hasn’t called me or anything. I haven’t spoken to her since Christmas.” Orlando sighed, turning to look out of the large coffee shop window.

“Second thoughts, lad? Are ya finally goin’ daft on me?” Billy stirred his coffee, looking to Orlando. “Yer just pissed about Sean making himself known to her. Maybe a bit miffed about your lack of foresight on Christmas day. She doesn’t know how you feel, mate. This is yer chance. Might be the only one ya get.”

“I am a bit put off by Sean, yeah. Maybe he is just better for her than I am. You know what I mean, man? He is stable, not as involved with acting as he was earlier in his career. Sean has more time to tend to his feelings and make them blossom the way he wants.” Orlando was brooding. “What is that old saying, out of sight out of mind?”

“Ya know that isn’t more than pity, Orli. Ya have to remember why ya started this whole thing. A week ago yer all gung-ho on tellin’ Erin what was in yer thoughts and heart. Now, yer backin’ out at the first sign of conflict. Yer sounding like ya have already given up.” Billy cocked a brow.

“Maybe I have. I don’t know, Billy.” Orlando took the rest of his coffee in one full swig. “Eitherway, I have to get back home and do some packing. I need to spend some time with my mum. When we leave New York, I wont see her again for another month or so.” Orlando rose.

“Right, mate. The plane takes off at 11am. Liv did say both were coming right? So that puts us at the airport around 7:30pm New York Time. By the time we get to the Four Seasons, around 8:30p. So, I will see you on the plane.” Dom made the calculations, looking up. Orlando was already gone.

“Bloody Hell. I hate when he does that. Cant hear him move and think at the same time.” Dom laughed, looking to Billy.

“OB is going to make the biggest mistake of his life if he doesn’t follow through tomorrow. I hope against hope that he keeps his mind about him.” Billy sighed. “Ya know, Dom, Pestilence and Death don’t touch an elf. Death comes in battle or from a broken heart. If Tolkien were writin’ this story, both Orlando and Erin would have Eldar blood in them. Erin, bein’ more of the Numenorian line. I would hate to see something unkind happen to either. I would hate to see a remake of the tragedy of Luthien and Beren.”

Amy and Erin stayed in the theatre long after the crowds had left. People in the audience had applauded at various stages of the movie, more prominent during the battle in the Mines of Moria. For the duo, seeing the movie a second time had made them somber, filled with longing.

“It’s a great movie.” Amy sighed, looking to Erin though her thoughts were with Billy..her irrepressible Pippin. “I think I could watch this a hundred times over and still find it fascinating.”

“It seems like only yesterday we were with the fellowship at the premiere. And yet, if feels like a lifetime has passed. Orlando was just a breathtaking vision as Legolas. He has so much talent. He is going to drive the movie industry to its knees, someday.” Erin sighed, wishing Orlando was with her.

“Remind me to call Billy a Fool of Took, next time I talk to him.” Amy tried to lighten the heavy mood.

“You know, Tolkien wrote that as sort of double-entandre. In old English slang, a Took is a fool.” Erin gathered her things.

“So, Gandalf comes back in the next movie, right? The Balrog doesn’t really finish him off? He is an immortal spirit sent by the one god, just like Saruman, right?” Amy strained to recall what Erin had made her read a long time ago.

“Gandalf comes back in Two Towers…but not the same as you see him in this movie. He truly becomes an equally powerful rival to Saruman the White. You will have to see. I just hope they shoot the Fangorn Forest scene from the books. But Peter would have to, its integral to the story.” Erin rose, stretching. “I just cant wait to see how they pull off a battle as large scale as Helms Deep. Its more intricate than something like the mines of Moria. That scene will be a good indicator of how they pull off the Minis Tirith battle sequence in Return of the King. And yes, Gandalf like Saruman and Radagast the Brown are immortal spirits in the flesh, a creation of Eru, the one true god.”

“You know just a bit too much about these books, woman.” Amy laughed following Erin out of the row.

“Well, Tolkien opened the door for so many fantasy writers, including Margaret Weiss and Tracey Hickman from the DragonLance chronicles. He was a genius. Way ahead of his own time.” Erin waited for Amy to climb her way out of the row, walking with her up the ramp to the exit.

The two drove home in relative silence, each with their own thoughts. Seeing Orlando again set Erin into a deep sense of darkness. Even on the silver screen, cloaked by prosthetics, a long blonde wig and blue eyed contact lenses, his essence came through and spoke loudly to her. The images of that infamous night at the premiere, haunted her still. Jemma was on his arm and yet he took up with her in the bathroom, where she was helpless to his beauty. Everything that happened after, she wanted so desperately to blame on the alcohol, but knew her faculties were still about her. Orlando was like a poison, a drug that made her thoughts rush away, leaving her to act on pure desire and instinct alone. And then there was Sean.

Erin had spent many nights on the phone with Sean. Their conversations were often deeply rooted. Both thought with such similar designs it was almost frightening. Erin found herself looking forward to their almost nightly conversations, all the while the thought of Orlando was fading fast from her heart. Erin did not love easily and she had no doubt she had fallen head over heels for the beautiful Brit. Yet, he seemed to move forward with his life, busy as it was. Out of sight, out of mind, Erin. You can not build something with him when he is still in the throes of his relationship with Jemma…and his own life. You have to forget him, as much as you love him and it hurts. But you can not build a house where no foundation was really lain. All of it was fleeting. Orlando Bloom will forever be a feather in the wind…and the wind turns Southward from you, to another continent, to another life. Love can not be real when it is forged of nothing more than passion. Even passion fades and dies…and so my heart shows no recourse than to let go. It was a dream, a momentary dream and nothing more.

Amy and Erin pulled up to the house. “Hey, are you alright? You look lost?” Amy chided, stepping out of the car and looking to her best friend over the roof.

“Not all who wander are lost.” Erin sighed softly, her breath hanging heavy in the below zero night. “Its almost 10:30p. We have to wind down and get ready for tomorrow.” Erin followed Amy into the house.

Amy hung her coat up and slid off her snow boots. She turned, feeling Erins hand on her shoulder.

“Hey, its not your birthday for another hour and a half…but, I wanted to give you something. Its not as grand as Billy got for you but I thought you would like it. Happy Birthday, Amy.” Erin handed Amy a black velvet case. Inside lay a quarter carat diamond solitaire pendant on a gold chain.

Amy was in awe, grasping her friend tight into her grip. “Oh thank you Erin. I will wear it tomorrow, for the new year. You are so thoughtful. You know diamonds are a girls best friend. But not in this case…you are this girls best friend.” She laughed.

Erin returned her embrace. “So many good things are coming on the horizon for you. I can see it all. I just want you to remember that no matter what, I love you and always will. You are the best friend I have ever had.”

Amy felt her chin quiver and her eyes start to tear. “You have always had the gift of foresight, Erin. But nothing good can happen in my life unless you are there. You have been my guide through many dangers and there will be no fork in our road, ever.”

Erin smiled, releasing her. “Come on, lets hop off to bed. We leave directly from work so leave your bags by your dresser and don’t forget them. I will make sure KittyKitty has enough food for the next two days.”

The two made their way off to bed and found an easy, if not restless sleep.

Orlando sent his bags off at the check in. He was forced to repack everything he had just unpacked a short time ago. After New York, he was flying out to his house in New Zealand for an additional month or more of reshoots, APR’s and additional footage for Return of the King. Not to mention a few scenes Orlando was sure Peter wanted to reshoot for The Two Towers. Secretly, Orlando loved the thought of going back to do a few more night shoots for the Helms Deep sequence, which was rather involved. Four months of working through darkness and sleeping through the day was actually pretty exciting. So many actors and extras were on set during that shoot. There was a sort of ordered chaos and he found the whole thing enchanting and exciting. Lets not forget Peter is putting the finishing touches on the Two Towers and will want some voiceovers for scenes he will undoubtedly omit from the Theatrical release and put back into the extended DVD version. Then of course, there are voiceovers for the game of the Towers, set to come out on EA before the movie is released. Bloody hell, there is so much involved with this, it is almost unbelievable.

Sonia laid a soft hand on her sons shoulders. “You promise to take care of yourself and all, Orlando James?” She had a worried tone cast to her voice, as only a devoted mother could.

“I will call you, don’t you worry about that, mum. I should be home in about a month or so but I wont know until I hear from Peter what the plan of action is. We could have a month or three left of shooting for the next installment of the movies. Not to mention the retakes for the Two Towers. Then I have to meet with the studio executives at Disney for Pirates of the Caribbean film. But eitherway, soon as I know, I will let you know.” Orlando took his mums hand softly. “Are you sure your going to be alright with Sam and I both gone for the next few days?”

“Well, I will miss you both but Colin should be back tonight. He promised he would make it here to spend the New Year with me. He has only been my best friend and confidant all these years. Don’t you worry about me. You both have fun.” Sonia turned to Samantha, standing beside Orlando. She only took carry on. Samantha intended to be back by the day after next.

The announcement came over head as Orlando, Samantha and Sonia moved toward the area set aside for Departures. “Flight 1010 on Concorde to JFK airport in New York City is boarding. All passengers please proceed to Gate 12.”

Orlando hugged his mum tightly. “Happy New Year, mum. I love you.”

Sonia held him tightly. As she released him, she traced a soft hand along his cheek. “Be well and call me when you land. Don’t make your mum worry.” She turned, holding Samantha tight. “I will be here to pick you up when you land, day after tomorrow. Enjoy New York, love.”

Sam held her tightly, kissing her softly on the cheek. “I love you, mum. See you in two days.”

With that, Orlando and his sister, Samantha made way for Gate 12 at Heathrow airport, passing through a checkpoint on the way to the Concorde. There, Billy and Dom caught them up, waiting outside of the causeway.

“Orlando, I had doubts ya would make it, lad. Good to see ya came, after all.” Billy embraced him.

“I still have my doubts, but I am here. For wherever it may lead me.” Orlando released him, grasping hold of Dom. Together, the four made way onto the Concorde. With two seats to a row in first class, Dom and Sam at together across from Billy and Orlando.

“I have never been on a Concorde before. This is so exciting. Do we really go the speed of sound?” Sam asked, leafing through the literature provided for her on the plane.

“Something like that, love.” Dom laughed. “Its pretty noisy and a bit choppy at take off, but the price is well worth the cut down in travel time. I am glad your coming with me. This will be a New Year I am sure we will not soon forget.”

Amy and Erin made ready to depart. People at work had made something of a fuss. It seemed that no generation was left untouched by the Lord of the Rings and most of their co workers had in fact, already gone to see the movie. The Original publication of the books by JRR Tolkien, having been in 1954, seemed to touch on all generations, though both Amy and Erin were amazed to consider the fact. Some of the younger Nurses and Direct Support Residential workers had requested autographs from the duo after hearing the amazing story. Of course, Erin did not expose her relationship to Orlando. She felt it would not be beneficial to his career. In fact, her private life was precisely that, private. Though she did promise Carol, a nurse who promised to take her shift on New Years Day, that she would get all the autographs she could. Amy made the same promise to Christina. It was the least both could do, considering the sacrifice their co workers were making for them.

Amy and Erin met in the parking lot at a little after 4pm. Erins Chevy Cavalier, which had been given a clean bill of health and four brand new snow tires, was packed with their belongings. Erin had left a sufficient amount of dry and wet food with water for KittyKitty in her absence.

“Woo!” Amy cried out, opening the passenger side door. “Are we ready to head out and have a slamming New Years Eve?”

“Yeah, I could use a little fun.” Erin smiled, unclipping the pager from her pants pocket and tossing it into the back of the car. “I am just thankful that someone else is on call tonight. Lets rock!” She laughed, sliding into the driver seat and roaring the engine to life.

The trip to the City was approximately 2 hours in such nasty weather. Two and a half hours given traffic on such a promising night, when you factored in the idea that times square was cut off in preparation for the New Years Eve ball dropping in the heart of the city.

Amy checked her cell phone for the time. It was drawing on almost 6:15pm when the car turned down onto 57 East 57 Street. The Four Seasons hotel loomed above them as they made the sharp right into the parking lot. The attendant asked them for reservation information, to which they gave Liv Tylers name. They were allowed to proceed.

The duo parked the car and grabbed their bags. Quickly an attendant saw to the task and the two, giggling went to the front desk.

“Welcome to the Four Seasons Hotel, the Premiere Hotel of New York City. May I have your reservation numbers and names please.” The overly friendly woman behind the counter asked.

“Amy Jones and Erin VonTrichovich are here under the reservation name, Liv Tyler.” Amy smiled, leaning her hands on the desk.

“We show five rooms reserved under the name Liv Tyler. One has been claimed. You will be penthouse suites number 102 and 103 for two nights and three days. Your personal butlers will show you the ways to your rooms. Please, feel free to call on him at all times. I trust you will find the accommodations to your liking. If you have any additional requests, please feel free to contact the front desk or arrange it with your personal butler. Our goal is service.” The woman replied, handing over key cards.

Two butlers, one elderly the other in his early twenties escorted the two ladies to the elevator. They introduced themselves as “Jacob”, the Elder one and “Jason” the younger. The elevator was manned by a red cap who saw them to the penthouse suites on the 52nd Floor, the very pinnacle of the hotel.

Amy and Erin could not help but giggle. The butlers were behind them, respectfully. “This is outrageous. Damn we only half an hour before Liv is going to met us in the lobby. We have to hustle.” Amy laughed.

Anxiously, the duo raced toward their rooms. With key cards in hand, Amy and Erin entered at nearly the same time. Each was absolutely confounded at the display of ultimate luxury before them.

Erin stood in the doorway, the butler, Jason, not further than a pace behind. The walls were an exquisite French Limestone, framed by elegant paneled windows. Their was an immense terrace overlooking the sites of New York City. The bathtub was Italian marble with an incredible steeping whirlpool tub that could have fit an army. Separate from that was a dressing room sheered in solid Sycamore. The Bedroom was expansive with a huge king sized feather down bed and velvet comforter. The drapes were heavy velvet to block out the light of morning sun. Within the bedroom was an incredibly huge entertainment center and an old style chaise divan, begging to be nestled. The living room quarters were done in French opulence with a marble top Wet Bar, bustling over with Top Shelf liquor. The dining room was huge with crystal chandeliers and a sharp array of silver for serving.

“Is everything to your liking, Madame?” Jason, the Butler asked.

“It is fabulous and beyond expectation, Jason. Thank you.” Erin was still in awe, glancing around. Her duffel bag had been set in the lavishly appointed bedroom.

“May I be of service to you, Madame?” Jason, dressed in a finely appointed tuxedo stood at attention, awaiting orders.

“I could use a drink. Can you fix me a long island ice tea?” Erin asked, earnestly. She had an innate understanding that this young man, perhaps only a year or so younger than she, was working.

“I am able to do that. Bartending is but one of my skills. Is there anything else I can be of service to you for?” Jason asked, formally.

“You could fix yourself one too. I know your probably thinking that you cant, but I simply will not take no for an answer. I should be out most of tonight and I want you to have a great night while I am gone. I wont be much of a bother, I am not one of those rich and fussy types.” Erin winked.

Jason smiled despite himself. “As you wish, Madame.”

Erin laughed. “I have a name and it isn’t Madame. That makes me sound like an old French whore. My Name is Erin, Jason. Good to meet you.” She walked toward him as he slid behind the wet bar, extending her hand. He did not seem sure of what to do with this sudden sense of informality but accepted her hand softly.

“I think you are the first guest I have served to actually introduce yourself to me so informally, Miss Erin. I think it will be a pleasure to be of service to you.” Jason smiled, setting to making drinks.

“None of this Miss, stuff, either. Just Erin. Now, let me get ready and I will come out and have a drink with you. Be back in a jiffy.” Erin smiled. The idea of having a personal butler was simply absurd. The poor guy was working for a living, just like every other poor joe in the city. And on New Years Eve night, no less. Erin felt for him. She was sure that Jason, a good looking guy as he was, had a girlfriend and friends he would rather be spending the night with, tonight.

Erin set to getting ready. She slid her clothing out of her duffel bag. With Amys help, she had chosen something simple and yet flashy. A PVC leather ball gown with spaghetti straps, which was tight at her chest and waist, flaring out from there with extra material that kicked behind her as she walked. She had chosen her black PVC stiletto boots to go along with the outfit. It was one of her favorite Gothic style outfits, and yet it seemed to fit the ringing of the New Year in, appropriately.

Erin slid into the outfit, adjusting it here and there before lacing up her knee high PVC boots. Doing her make up quickly, Erin ran her hands through her hair, leaving the immense length down and spraying it into place, carefully.

In under 20 minutes, she was out and ready to have her drink with Jason. She asked him to come and sit with her at the bar as she sipped her drink. He seemed rather impressed with her style of dress.

“So, tell me Jason, do your friends have plans for tonight, being its New Years Eve and all. Surely you have a girl waiting for you?” Erin downed nearly half the drink in one swig. It was rather good and a bit strong.

“Of course, but they are heading out to a party tonight. Work is my priority. For my fiancée and our plans for the future.” Jason responded candidly, feeling comfortable in her presence.

“So, you in school or anything?” Erin asked, looking to him.

“Yes, actually. I am going to NYU and studying Architecture.” Jason took a small sip of his drink.

“I have a great idea. Look, its New Years eve and I don’t want to see you stuck here while I am out partying.” Erin finished her drink. Jason abandoned his and started to make another for her. Erin did not protest.

“That is my job Miss…I mean, Erin.” Jason poured equal mixtures of seven different liquors into a canister and shook it about.

“I know its your job. But, listen to me. I wont be back here till early in the morning, probably around 2 or 3 in the morning. If you can get back here by then, just to cover your ass, go and hang out with your fiancée and your friends. Give them a call, you can use my cell phone.” Erin felt his eyes burning through her as she lit a cigarette.

“I cant do that, Erin. I am sorry. I am here to serve you.” Jason said, softly and yet, wantonly.

“Well you cant serve me if I am not here. Look, there has to be a way to sneak out without getting caught. If you can be back here by the time I get back, we don’t have a problem. You know? Shit, its New Years eve. I work for a living, just like you. This is no trick or anything and I don’t want to see you get in trouble. The question is, can you get out of here unseen?” Erin accepted her second drink.

“I could, I guess.” Jason said, softly.

Erin rose and retrieved her cell phone, handing it to him. “Make your calls. I have unlimited local and long distance. Get out of here and enjoy the new year. Just don’t forget about me and this will be our secret, alright?” Erin smiled.

“Oh man, you rock. Do you know that? I promise I will get back here before you do.” Jason accepted the phone, a smile plastered across his face. He made a call while Erin finished her drink. Before a moment passed, Amy was knocking at her door.

Jason handed the cell phone back to Erin with a smile.

“Do I need to tell the front desk that you will be in my room until I return or is it cool?” Erin asked, looking to the door.

“They wont bother much with me. They will figure that I will be here, anyway. They don’t call or anything. They figure I will come downstairs when I am finished serving our guests.” Jason said candidly.

“Well, I have to go. So, get out of here, alright. See you in the New Year.” Erin smiled and went to the door. Amy was standing before her, looking smashing in black leather pants and the blue silk shirt she had, half unbuttoned to expose her trim form.

“Isnt the butler supposed to answer?” Amy laughed. “Or did you give him some time off like I did?”

Amy knew her too well. “Yeah. So I guess you gave the old man off to spend time with his wife?” Erin laughed as Amy nodded.

Erin turned and gave a wink to Jason and bounded out of the door, slipping her cell phone with her key card in her pocket book. Together the two made way downstairs to the lobby.

“You look great.” Amy smiled, walking arm and arm with her best friend.

“So do you, but you already know that.” Erin smiled, making way from the elevator.

Liv was already waiting for them with her father, Stephen Tyler. Erin recognized him instantly, as did Amy. He was tall and thin, looking untouched by age, other than a few lines around his eyes and rather famous mouth. His hair was long, chestnut brown. Stephen wore black leather pants and a long dark red shirt that trailed down toward his ankles, open at the chest. The resemblance between both he and Liv was striking.

Liv welcomed them both with open arms. She looked like a temptress, dressed in a long sleek black leather cat suit, displaying her incredible curves. “I am so glad you both made it, this is going to be great! Happy New Year! Now, come on, I want you to meet my dad.” Liv hooked both of them with her arms, drawing them closer to her father.

“Dad, this is Amy and Erin. Two very good friends of mine. This is my dad, Stephen.” Liv smiled, shoving both of them forward.

Amy was beside herself as was Erin, in the presence of Rock and Roll royalty. Stephen embraced Amy. “Great to meet you, Amy. You are Billys girlfriend, right? Liv has told me so much about you. She barely does you justice.” Stephen smiled.

Amy instantly melted, giggling like an idiot and dumbfounded by his presence. “Oh my god, Stephen Tyler. It is so damn cool to meet you. I have been a fan since Done with Mirrors and now here you are. Oh, shit!” Amy gushed.

Stephen embraced Erin with a smile. “And you are Erin. Liv has told me lots about you and its good to put a face to a name. She tells me you and Orlando are a thing. Too bad.” Stephen winked and Liv elbowed him in the side, much to his laughter.

“Holy shit, Stephen Tyler. I don’t want to sound like an idiot but all hope is already lost. Both Amy and I have been huge fans ever since we bought the Done with Mirrors LP. Amy has always had a thing for you, I am more of a Joe Perry girl myself.” Erin felt herself babbling on like a moron. Amy was blushing, instantly.

“Well, Joe will be here with us tonight. I am sure he will be glad to meet you. Cant say his wife will be.” Stephen laughed. “Friends of my daughter are blood to me. Welcome to the Tyler Brood.” “

Oh god.” Both Amy and Erin seemed to squeal at once. In their excitement they could not help but jump up and down like school children. Stephen took it all in stride, as did Liv. It brought Liv joy to see two of her friends so happy to meet her Dad. A father she had not known of, till several years before.

Liv linked arms with them again as she followed her dad out to the awaiting limo. “I am glad you both like my dad. He has heard a lot about you. We are going to have a bang up time tonight.”

Amy and Erin were still reeling over Stephen Tyler. They felt like they were living in a dream world where each moment seemed to outlive the next. The limo made its way to Studio 54 at to 254 West 54 Street. New Years Eve was ready to begin.

The plane landed at JFK airport in New York. From there, the group gathered their belongings at the baggage claim. Samantha was excited to finally be in New York City, her eyes looking out of the long away windows to try to catch a glimpse of the city.

“Don’t worry, love. We will be out there soon enough.” Dom laughed, gathering his three heavy suitcases. Billy did the same as did Orlando. Luckily, Orlando noticed the limo driver, holding up a sign that read simply, “OB”. He wanted to draw as little attention to himself as he could.

He went to the limo driver, showing him his UK driving license to ensure he was, in fact, Orlando Bloom. The limo driver called over a porter from the airport to gather the immense bags the fellowship had packed, loading them into the trunk of the stretch limousine, parked just outside of the unloading zone.

Suddenly, the group turned, hearing a scream in the background. “Billy, Dom, OB!” Lij called out, waving his arms frantically. The girl he had met in New York a few weeks prior, Shannon, was with him.

Lij ran over, embracing each member of the group, including Sam. “Alright, are we ready to party it up?” Lij smiled with a warmth akin to a hobbit coming home to the Shire.

“Right, mate.” Dom embraced him. “Its time to get the New Year rung in. Even if it is already the New Year in London.” He smiled. Everyone made a pleasant greeting to Shannon.

“I have a limo waiting for me that Shannon came in. I will meet you guys at the Hotel.” Lij smiled, breaking off the grasp with a smile.

Orlando, Billy, Dom and Samantha bound into the stretch Orlando had ordered and headed out to the Four Seasons. Inside of half an hour, the car pulled up as a Bellhop came out to unload the baggage.

The group went to the front desk to check in. Billy stepped up. “Hello, love and a Happy New Years eve to ya. I am Billy Boyd. The lot of us have reservations under Liv Tyler. Some of our party may have checked in already.”

The woman behind the counter smiled. “Thank you sir and welcome to the Four Seasons, premiere hotel of New York City. I have a William Boyd in room 102 with Amy Jones who has already checked in and departed for the evening. I have an Orlando Bloom in room 103 with Erin VonTrichovich, who has already checked in and departed for the evening. I also have reservations for Dominic Monahagn and Samantha Bloom in room 104 and also an Elijah Wood and guest for room 105. Miss Liv Tyler is in room 101 with a Viggo Mortensen. Here are your key cards. Your personal butlers will escort you to your rooms in the penthouse suites on the 52nd Floor. However, the personal butlers for rooms 102 and 103 are shown as being occupied in the rooms listed. Once again, on behalf of the Four Seasons New York City, I welcome the Fellowship of the Ring. Your Butlers will be able to take care of all of your needs. The front desk is always available. Service is our goal.” The girl smiled, recognizing them, instantly. Two butlers came up behind the group. The bellhops received their orders from them.

“Thank ya love. If there is anything we can do for ya, just you give us a ring.” Billy smiled, looking to Dom, Lij and Orlando as they received their keycards.

“It is against policy but I would love to ask for your autographs. The movie is so amazing, it is a pleasure for me to serve you all.” She smiled, sheepishly.

“Of course, love.” Dom smiled. The woman produced a piece of hotel stationary, to which each of the cast members signed their names. In an instant, the group was lead to the elevators where a red cap attended the car. The two butlers followed behind and introduced themselves. Dom and Samantha were paired with a middle aged gent named, Michael. Lij and Shannon with a younger man named, Jonah.

Each member of the group went their separate ways. Orlando slid the key card into the lock and it opened automatically. To his surprise, a young gent was having a drink at the bar, dressed rather informally. He instantly jumped to his feet and introduced himself.

“Good afternoon, Sir. My name is Jason and I am your butler for your stay here at the Four Seasons. Erin did not tell me you were joining her. Forgive me. She has told me to rush off for the night with my fiancée but to return before she does, this evening. I will amend those plans, now.” Jason stood straight as an arrow.

Orlando smiled softly. She is quite kind to think of someone who works to serve. How like her that seems. “Jason, is it? That is fine. Erin speaks for both of us, though it is a surprise that I am here. She is not expecting me, though the room is in both of our names. Go about your way, then. Have no fear of discovery. And have a quite Happy New Year.”

Jason smiled. “Thank you sir.”

“My name is Orlando, not sir.” Orlando looked to the door as his bags came in. He slid behind the bar to fix a drink as the bellhop set his things in the bedroom. The opulence was not uncommon to him at this stage.

“Allow me to make you a drink while I await my fiancée, Sir…Forgive me, Orlando. Will you have a Long Island Iced Tea, same as Erin?” Jason, the butler moved behind the bar as Orlando slid out.

“That will do just fine, thank you, Jason.” Orlando sat at the wet bar, lighting a cigarette. Orlando was smiling, hearing Erins name used so freely. It made him feel more connected to her presence. She is, indeed, something else.

Jason fixed Orlando a drink as he puffed thoughtfully on his cigarette. He began to speak, candidly. “You are the Elf from the Fellowship of the Ring movie. I recognize you, even without the make up. One of my favorite books and movies. And, if you don’t mind my saying so, Erin is quite a wonderful person. She really seemed to understand and relate to my circumstances.” Jason slid the drink in front of Orlando.

“She is amazing, isn’t she?” Orlando smiled, his thoughts burrowing deep down into his heart.

“Yes, she is. Gentle and understanding. Not many people would see past their needs and send their personal servant off for a few hours to enjoy the new year, if you don’t mind my saying.” Jason smiled and looked to the time.

Orlando was in silent reverie of Jason’s obvious enchantment. “I see you glancing at your watch. Go on and have no fear. Your arrangement with Erin is safe with me. Go now. Happy New Year.” He smiled and sipped his drink. Jason rushed out from the room, his formal clothing held under his arm.

Orlando crushed his cigarette, taking is drink into the opposite room. He paused, leaning against the Sycamore paneled walls, lowering his eyes. The room smells of her. Oh, how delicious and enticing is such a scent. The thought of her, unmakes me.

With a soft smile, Orlando set to changing for the evening. He opted for a pair of black trousers and a bright red silk shirt, which he tucked neatly into his pants. The scent of her lingered, even as he sprayed his cologne. My course is yet unclear, but there is hope. My feelings do not waver, not even now as I draw ever closer to her. Though my concerns herald through my thoughts. The way will be known to me when the time is right. And no better time than now. Not all who wander are lost.

Inside of a few moments a knock played loudly across his door. Rushing to it, he found Billy before him. “That amazing lass has given the butler hours off. What a lass she is, so thoughtful. Are ya ready, mate? Lij, Shannon, Dom and Sam are rearing to hit the famous Studio 54, once more.” He smiled.

Orlando conveyed a sense of doubt with is eyes, though his hand found his friends shoulder. Billy could sense it and felt his smile sink into oblivion. “I am ready mate. For Wherever it may lead. Lets make ourselves known. It is nearly 8:30pm New York Time, according to my watch.”

Billy tried to smile, despite his misgivings. The group made way down to the lobby and the waiting limo. They departed, ready for the celebration of New Years Eve.

Samantha laid a soft hand on her brothers shoulder, feeling his doubt. “Hey, its going to be alright, Orli. I look forward to meeting this mystery woman, whom you profess your undying love for. I trust she will be spectacular.”

“I only hope her reaction to my presence lives up to my expectations and belays my doubt and and anguish.” Orlando embraced her softly, walking with his arm around her toward the elevator.

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